use and meaning of ''los asistentes''

Question

I found recently a for me unexpected use of the word 'el asistente'. I thought it usually means 'assistant' or 'helper'. But in the following context is is used to indicate more like a spectator or participant. Is that correct?

''Mientras cientos de globos de brillantes colores flotan en el horizonte matutino, los asistentes aplauden, animan con sus gritos, toman fotos y hablan por sus teléfonos celulares con los amigos.''

thx.

Answer 1

asistir=to attend (and event) or to attend (assist)

asistente=attendee (audience) or assistant

you're right on both counts

Asistí a la universidad de YS.

I attended YSU.