Autumn in Lincoln sees the streets awash in red as football fans from across Nebraska gather in Lincoln for the timeless tradition of Husker football. All over campus, students eagerly anticipate the sound of the touchdown cannon, the exuberance of the marching band,and the promise of a shitload of alcohol before the game starts.

These customs, sacred for many Nebraskans, are a brand new experience for the international student body at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. For international students unsure of their footing in a brand new setting, game day tailgates provide invaluable lessons and the hazy fragments of memories that will last a lifetime.

Sophomore exchange student Bai Yang, a native of Shangxi, China, recalled his first college football experience at the BYU game earlier this fall.

“Back home, we are all very aware that football is a major thing in America,” Yang said. “But I never quite realized the extent of preparation that the fans go through.”

“I was immediately handed a beer, before I had the chance to greet anyone,” Yang continued. “Looking around it seemed everyone had at least one or two beers in hand; a number of very happy individuals were holding at least five. There was a grill set up in a nearby driveway, but the student manning the hot dogs seemed entirely occupied by a large handle of vodka in his right hand, and neglected the meat. Nobody seemed upset, though, so I guess it was cool.”

In addition to learning about other cultures and being provided with new perspectives on life, figuring out whose older brother is willing to procure can be useful as well.

“ I met Derek, who I’ve since had buy me beer because he is a cool guy,” Yang said. “I only had to give him $15 for a six-pack.”