Southeast Missouri State University's office of Intensive English Programs hosted its International Ladies Night on Sept. 24 in the Student Recreation Center-North.

The event allowed international female students the opportunity to dress up and spend time bonding and getting to know each other. Men were not allowed at the event because, the women wanted to feel more comfortable dancing. Also Muslim and Saudi Arabian women were able to appear in public without their traditional head coverings.

“Several years ago we noticed that many of our Saudi Arabian women would not come to our co-ed events because they were not comfortable. So we created this event so they could be comfortable and spend time outside of class with other women,” Rachel Schremp, administrative assistant in IEP and event coordinator for the International Ladies Night said.

During the event students danced, chatted with other students, staff and faculty and ate snacks. Students were encouraged to request songs from their home countries and lead other students in the dance.

According to Schremp, approximately 150 women attended the event. This event is held each semester to welcome new women and encourage them to spend time with other students.

“This year we are trying to encourage IEP students to attend university-sponsored events,” Casey Hinkebein, an IEP Faculty member said.

The Intensive English Program is a program that allows students to sharpen their English skills before entering university classes. There are several levels to the program that students are tested into when they enter the program. The levels range from little to no English to advanced English speaking. In IEP, students take classes such as listening and speaking, writing and grammar. Along with classes, students are encouraged to attend events and get involved in club activities.