Lorenzo Williams and Rhea Gargullo are the biggest Asians on campus.
At least according to students who attended last Friday night's Big Asian on Campus, a competition for Asian students to showcase their talents.
Williams, a College sophomore, won the crowd over with his oral poetry, while Gargullo, a College senior performed a freestyle dance.
As a preview for Asian Pacific American Heritage week, which officially begins later this month, the second-annual event featured five male and five female contestants who competed to win the highest number of votes from the audience.
The competition was comprised of four categories: formal wear, swimwear for men, a question and answer portion and a talent showcase.
Audience members also bid on the contestants to win dates.
The audience's enthusiasm was best expressed by posters featuring sayings like "Neil, you Hype me up" and "Wilson - U Are Hot!!" referring to contestants College senior Neil Mulchandani and College and Wharton junior Wilson Tong, respectively.
"I thought it was awesome," said College junior Asad Nazir, who was in the audience. "Everyone got to showcase their talent. It was a great way to kickoff APAHW week."
College sophomore Mai Tsukikawa agreed, saying that "it was really fun."
Even those contestants who didn't take home a prize enjoyed the event.
"It was an amazing experience," said College senior and "Mrs. Big Asian" runner-up Jun Li. "I realized how talented the Asian Americans are on this campus."
College junior Benjamin Alisuag , APAHW Logistics Chairman, was "pleased" with the event, calling it "successful."
APAHW raised about $1,500 during the night with ticket sales, auction bids and T-shirt sales.
"It feels great to bring the Asian community together for such as wonderful event," Gargullo said. "I'm just thankful that everyone voted for me."
APAHW begins on Oct. 22. Events throughout the week will include a career panel, candlelight vigil, charity gala and fashion show.
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