To celebrate International Education Week, the International Student Program (ISP) collaborated with the Associated Students of Skyline College (ASSC) to host the Annual International Food Festival held on November 15th, 2023, at the Fireside Dining Room in Building 6. This event serves as a unique platform for international students from various countries to share their cultural heritage through the universal language of food. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and community members to gather and enjoy food from around the world.
The event was a huge success, attracting over 215 people eager to taste cuisines from all over the world, including Myanmar, South Korea, Philippines, Indonesia, China, Japan, Italy, France, Mexico, Germany, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan.
International students represented their cultural backgrounds by dressing in traditional clothing and serving finger foods at their respective tables, bringing a personal touch to the cultural festivities. Each table showcased a variety of dishes: Myanmar featured si hta minn (yellow sticky rice) and sanwin makin (sticky rice cake); South Korea offered tteokbokki (spicy rice cake) and kimbap; Philippines presented lumpia, a huge crowd-pleaser; Vietnam served fresh gỏi cuốn which were quickly devoured; China garnered attention offering both chicken and beef chow mein; and Indonesia treated us all to a sweet touch with klepon, a bite-sized dessert. Tables representing Japan, Italy, France, Mexico, and Germany contributed their signature dishes by offering dorayaki, tiramisu, macarons, pan dulce, and brezein, respectively, providing a diverse culinary experience. Last but not least, Uzbekistan’s table showcased Central Asian flavors with manti, somsa, and kulcha non.
The International Food Festival not only honored cultural diversity but also developed a sense of unity and understanding amongst members of Skyline College. The shared experience of sampling international cuisines truly shows the power of food in uniting people from all different cultures and backgrounds. The united efforts of ISP and ASSC helped ensure that this year’s international food festival tradition would continue to be an incredible success, leaving attendees with full bellies and eagerly anticipating next year’s event.
The International Student Program is part of the Global Learning Programs and Services Division. ISP will continue to provide services and programs for international students as well as for the entire Skyline College community. If you are interested in learning more about future ISP programs and events, contact the ISP office at skyinternational@smccd.edu.
Article and photo by Lasheana Dilian Husni
