The fourth Annual Cultural Summit was hosted on Wednesday, Oct. 17 by the International Student Services and Enrollment (ISSE) to introduce students and faculty to the culture of countries in the Middle East.The Cultural Summit was first hosted on Sept. 21, 2009 and represented the countries of Egypt, Iran, Israel, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. It offered international dishes, live performances and crafts.At the event, students and faculty got a taste of international foods, such as dolma, baklava, Turkish delight and kabsa. Tables were set up for students and faculty to get henna designs, wear Saudi Arabian attire and learn their names in Arabic, as well as other exciting activities. There was a live performance by Pittsburgh’s belly rock band Ishtar and a traditional Saudi Arabian dance. Students watched in amazement as Saudi Arabians danced and joined in the festivities.Each year the Cultural Summit focuses on a region in the world where international students come from in hopes of breaking the cultural barrier between American and foreign students. The event gives students from different parts of the world a chance to come together through their common love for food, art and entertainment.The Cultural Summit has a positive effect on all students, international and American, for several reasons.Hosting an event like the Cultural Summit gives international students a feeling of acceptance and importance; there is a realization that their culture is being welcomed and supported by many people. For most international students, being in a new country is not an easy transition because they are continents away from their family, friends and home. International students face learning a new language and adapting to a new environment. Every year when the Cultural Summit occurs, it gives foreign students a sense of home. The event also allows foreign students to teach other students about their traditions and way of life. It is a chance for them to open up and share stories with new friends.Although the summit is nothing compared to being back in their native country, international students are still able to enjoy themselves at the celebration. International students felt a sense of pride as their culture was cherished and acknowledged by the Point Park community.To many people America is known as a “melting pot.”  It is the home of millions of people, and is occupied by different races, religions and ethnicities. Students in America should be accustomed to diversity.For many students, the Cultural Summit introduced cultures of which they were unaware. It gave students the opportunity to learn about different countries in comparison to the United States.The Cultural Summit allows students to be exposed to other cultures – their beliefs, values and customs. Students also get a feel of what life is like in various countries. Students can develop an understanding and respect for international students and learn to be grateful for their own culture as well.On the news, students see people in Libya and Egypt fighting for their freedom through protests and revolts. This year’s Cultural Summit gave students a different view on the Middle East; a view that the Middle East, which is also a region not only dealing with conflict, but filled with traditions and customs.The Cultural Summit is an event that students should attend every year if possible; it is a culture shock that will open students to many nations and ethnicities.