On September 24, 2025, the Office of Global Affairs (OGA) hosted Hotpot Hangout Night at L104, Jieren Campus. The event was part of the Study Buddy program, designed to help freshmen and senior students connect and interact while learning about Taiwanese food culture. Through the shared experience of cooking and eating hotpot together, participants were able to strengthen friendships, practice teamwork, and enjoy a taste of authentic Taiwanese tradition.
The evening began with OGA staff introducing the event’s purpose and explaining how hotpot plays a meaningful role in Taiwanese culture—representing warmth, togetherness, and shared meals. After the introduction, students gathered around the tables where ingredients were neatly prepared, including vegetables, meat, tofu, and noodles. Each group was given a stove to cook their own hotpot, just like how locals enjoy it at home or restaurants in Taiwan.
As the soup began to boil, conversations started flowing naturally. Freshmen and seniors exchanged stories about their studies, campus life, and cultural experiences. The room was cozy and welcoming.
The atmosphere throughout the event was friendly and relaxed. Many students mentioned that it was their first time trying Taiwanese-style hotpot, and they were excited to learn how to cook it themselves. Both local and international students appreciated the chance to mingle, make new friends, and share a warm meal together. OGA members and volunteers provided great support during setup and cooking, ensuring that everyone had a fun and safe experience.
The Hotpot Hangout Night successfully fulfilled its goal of bringing students together while introducing a key part of Taiwanese food culture. The event created meaningful connections between freshmen and seniors, leaving everyone with full stomachs and happy memories. For future improvement, it is suggested to prepare more stoves and bowls to accommodate the large number of participants and make cooking more convenient. Overall, the event was a heartwarming success that strengthened the sense of community within Tzu Chi University.