SASE Exchange showcases underrepresented Asian cultures with iPad nostalgia theme

The Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers held its annual SASE Exchange on March 22 in Old Union Hall using an "iPad Nostalgia" theme to share food, games and cultural displays from a range of Asian countries, including Mongolia, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers hosted its annual SASE Exchange on March 22 in Old Union Hall. The event used an "iPad Nostalgia" theme inspired by early mobile games and was sponsored by Moshi and Emerging Technology Studios. Organizers presented a fair-style afternoon of home-cooked food, traditional games and a scavenger hunt with prizes. SASE's national organization was founded in 2007 and the Binghamton chapter began in 2011. Event highlights: - The event took place March 22 in Old Union Hall and adopted an "iPad Nostalgia" theme tied to early mobile games. - Sponsors included Moshi and Emerging Technology Studios, and activities included a scavenger hunt, games, food booths and a raffle with prizes such as an iPad A16, a karaoke machine and a Squishmallow. - Countries represented ranged from widely known cultures like South Korea, India and Taiwan to less-represented ones such as Mongolia, Malaysia and Indonesia. - Traditional games were featured by country: South Korea showcased gonggii, Indonesia presented engklek (a hopscotch-style game), and Mongolia displayed archery tied to Naadam traditions. - Home-cooked dishes were prepared to reflect each culture, including braised cabbage from Taiwan, chicken satay from Malaysia and nasi goreng from Indonesia. - Student leaders described the event as a long-standing campus tradition and emphasized community-building and an effort to highlight underrepresented cultures. Summary: The SASE Exchange used nostalgia and hands-on activities to draw attention to a mix of well-known and underrepresented Asian cultures, combining food and traditional games to create a communal atmosphere. Organizers said the event aimed to provide authentic representations and opportunities for learning. Undetermined at this time.