By MC2 Victoria Ochoa

An Indonesian percussion band performs a song during NPS' annual International Day celebration hosted by the International Executive Committee (IEC) outside Root Hall, April 23. The event displayed the diversity and culture of more than 27 countries, which comprised of NPS' student and faculty population. NPS students and volunteers offered food, entertainment and information about their respective countries to visitors.

"This event provided a great opportunity for everyone to meet different cultures and sample various foods and beverages," said NPS Brazilian student Stilson Cardoso. "Everyone seemed to enjoy the event and a lot of fun was had by all."

Students from all over the world participated in the celebration with food, and performances including dancing and singing.

Each booth featured the countries most popular dishes, including but not limited to, South Korean japchae, Greek baklava, Canadian poutine and Indonesian coconut cake. Students also offered information about their countries and services like henna tattoos to visitors.
"This event provided a unique opportunity for international students to promote their culture, their cuisine, and their customs," said Hellenic Navy Lieutenant Ioannis Kanlis. " Along with performances from an Indonesian Folk Group, Brass Band, and live dancing from Turkish and Hawaiian Dancers."

The IEC supports international students and their families as they try to adapt to American life and culture while promoting good relations and cultural understanding between the U.S. and international students through events like International Day.

"International Day was a great success, one of the best we have ever had," said International Programs Coordinator Kim Andersen. "This year we had record breaking attendance and sales that will directly benefit the international students."

"This was a day of union between all of us studying here at NPS and the community," said NPS Peruvian student Alfredo Belaunde. "It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase our pride for our homelands, and the cultural diversity that each student brings to the NPS community."