Fresh off finals, international students enjoyed a relaxing start to their holiday break at the third annual “International Utes Day Game,” an event aimed at fostering appreciation for the international community at the U and building community during a time of year that can feel isolating for students far from home.
Held in the Jon M. and Karen Huntsman Basketball Facility, the dinner brought together nearly 75 students from over 20 countries, many of whom had not been home to see their families in several years. After dinner, attendees were special guests at the Utah Men’s Basketball game.
“We know this time of year can be tough, especially for students who can’t travel home,” said event organizer Derek Fryar, Assistant Director of Marketing and Fan Experience. “This is a small way to open our doors and let students know they belong here.”
The event was organized by Utah Athletics in partnership with the International Student and Scholar Support office.
“In the athletics corner of campus, we talk a lot about teamwork,” said Fryar. “This felt like teamwork in a different form—making sure everyone felt welcome and included.”
International students said the dinner provided both comfort and connection. “It’s really nice to be thought of,” said Hilda Echelibe, a PhD candidate studying cancer immunotherapy from Cameroon, West Africa. Several students commented that being invited gave them something fun to look forward to on a Saturday when campus is otherwise quiet and can feel lonely.
Many attendees were excited to attend their first Utes game and even more thrilled to learn that students get free digital tickets to most University of Utah sports via the Utah 360 App, using their UCard for entry.
After dinner, students walked over to the Huntsman Center to watch the Utes take on Eastern Washington. “I’ve been to NBA games, but I have never been to a Utah basketball game before. I hope we do well.” said Dajun Lin, a PhD candidate in Electrical & Computer Engineering from China. The Utes didn’t disappoint, narrowly holding the Eagles at bay for the first quarter before breaking away for a blow-out 101-75 win.
The game experience proved extra exciting for the handful of students who got to go behind the scenes and down to the court to toss t-shirts to the crowd during a time-out. Announcers acknowledged the international student community at the U and the students smiled as they were greeted with applause. The game also featured a video vignette highlighting the talented international students that make up much of the men’s basketball team.
For international students, 2025 was marked by sudden, severe immigration challenges, adding significant stress to individuals already navigating academic and cultural adjustments. That makes initiatives like this increasingly important, according to Elizabeth Hammond, Associate Director, International Student Experience & Engagement.
“Belonging is tied to student success. When students feel supported socially, it positively affects their academic and personal well-being. We’re thankful for our partners in Athletics for spotlighting international students and their important contributions to our Utah community,” said Hammond.