By Anna Lister, Texas A&M University Global Engagement

BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION, TX — May 27, 2025 — Under shimmering lights and the glitz of a red carpet theme, the Department of Global Engagement at Texas A&M University hosted its first-ever international prom, “A Night in Hollywood,” drawing nearly 280 students for an evening of dancing, cultural celebration, and community building.
The idea for the prom was born from a casual conversation between international students and Global Engagement’s Aggie Global Guides, who realized that many students had never experienced a traditional American prom.  

“It came out of a conversation about typical American experiences,” said Michayla Robles, program manager for the Aggie Global Guides.  

With that inspiration, a small committee of students, led by executive member Campbell Kuryk, began planning the event in January.  

“The goal was to give everyone an opportunity to dress up, dance with their friends, and just enjoy themselves,” Kuryk said. “It was about creating a space where international and domestic students could connect in a fun, low-pressure environment.”

The Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building was transformed into a glamorous Hollywood-inspired ballroom, complete with photo booths, elegant decorations, and a mezzanine-level dance floor. Students arrived in a mix of formal wear—some in traditional prom dresses and tuxedos, others in cultural attire representing their heritage.

Palak Goindwani, one of the attendees, described the night as “magical.” She recalled walking into the venue and being swept away by the atmosphere.  

“It was literally like I was stepping into a fairy tale,” she said. “The food was amazing, the photo booths were so fun, and dancing with my boyfriend to ‘Perfect’ was one of my favorite memories. It was a proper prom experience.”

The event wasn’t just about fun—it was also about fostering a sense of belonging.  

“It was really sweet to see people complimenting each other’s outfits, asking where they were from, and just connecting,” Robles said. “It truly felt like a group experience.”

Kuryk echoed that sentiment, noting that the prom helped highlight the strength and size of the international community at Texas A&M.  

“It gave students a space to express their cultural identity and feel seen,” she said.  

To make the event more accessible, the committee also organized a dress drive, sourcing formal wear from campus organizations and the university’s career closet.  

“It was a way to make sure everyone could participate without the pressure of buying something new,” Kuryk said.

The event was such a success that organizers are already thinking about how to expand it next year. Tickets sold out quickly, and interest was far higher than the venue could accommodate.  

As the night wound down, students lingered, reluctant to leave.  

“At 11:15, there were still guests sitting around chatting,” Kuryk recalled. “That’s how you know it was a good night.”

Event Photo Album


About Global Engagement
The Department of Global Engagement strategically aligns several critical internationally focused units bringing together Education Abroad, International Student & Scholar Services, and Global Partnerships & Initiatives. As a hub of resources and partnerships, Global Engagement fosters the University’s commitment to solving the world’s most pressing problems through a focus on transformational international education and research that serves our local communities and the world at large.