Students explored what services the Sacramento State Multi-Cultural Center had to offer at its annual Open House and Block Party on Wednesday.

Nearly 50 students showed up over the course of the 90-minute event.

“The purpose of this open house was for people to come in to see who we are and what we can offer,” said social justice intern Cat Xia.

The center offers paid internships for undergraduate and graduate students. Interns hold positions, including event programming, newsletter and publicity and peer education.

“Part of what we love about the center is our community,” Charlene Martinez, director of the center, said to the crowd of students. “This is a home away from home for many students.”

Because one of the key elements of the center is community, the majority of the event was an opportunity for students and visitors to meet new people.

“The center provides cultural awareness,” Yeimi Lopez, former publicity intern for the center, said, “You can share experiences with other students and find common ground. I think that this place is the only one on campus that welcomes this kind of discussion.”

Martinez said everyone is welcome to come here to get to know and enjoy each other’s company.

The center is great for anyone who is looking to meet new people, Lopez said. .

Lopez said the center is particularly helpful to incoming freshmen that are still trying to figure out where to get involved.

“You will always find someone here to welcome you and help if you have any questions,” Lopez said. “There are people who come here continuously; you get to know them and it really does become family.”

Micah Stevenson can be reached at [email protected]