This week, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the event of a cultural exchange program called Unite UW. As part of the program, we embarked on an exciting activity called the “Amazing Race” — a fast-paced treasure hunt across various iconic localities of Seattle. It was a whirlwind of exploration, creativity, and teamwork, all under the ticking clock of a race against time.
Our adventure began at Pike Place Market, a bustling hub that captures the essence of Seattle. Here, we had several quirky tasks to complete: stick gum at the famous Gum Wall, take pictures with the market’s bronze pigs, film the iconic fish-throwing scene, and even create an advertisement for a local restaurant. While every task was enjoyable, the one that truly stood out was creating the ad.
For this task, I decided to approach the owner of Aditi Chai, a charming Indian tea shop. I asked her if we could make an advertisement for her business, and to my delight, she not only agreed but also handed us a microphone to use. What made this moment special was conducting the ad in Hindi, which added a personal and cultural touch to the experience. The owner’s enthusiasm and support made it all the more memorable, and it felt wonderful to showcase a piece of my heritage in such a vibrant setting.
The race didn’t end there. Our journey took us to other iconic spots, including the Space Needle, Capitol Hill, and Chinatown. Each location had its own set of tasks, and the thrill of completing them while navigating through the city added to the excitement. It was fascinating to explore the cultural diversity and historical richness of these neighbourhoods, all while bonding with my teammates.
What made the Amazing Race so exhilarating was the sense of urgency and teamwork. Every task required creativity, communication, and quick thinking. It was an unforgettable experience that not only deepened my connection to Seattle but also highlighted the beauty of cultural exchange and collaboration.
Unite UW has truly been an enriching journey so far, and the Amazing Race is a memory I’ll cherish forever.
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