In early 2009, on a cold winter day in Pittsburgh, a friend of mine asked me to join a group of Pittsburgh internationals at a newly opened beer garden for a drink. Just before she called, I was ready to cuddle up with a book and a hot chocolate and call it a night. I debated turning her down and sticking to my original plan but gave in to the idea of good company and a German beer. A quick wardrobe change later, I was out the door and into an evening that would become very significant in my life.

At the German bar, the waiter pointed us to a large table that was half full. My friend and I chose our seats next to the group of international folks who liked to get together at least once a month.