“El Salvador is a country full of history, poets, celebrations, and festivals. No matter where you come from, you are welcomed as if you belong. Beyond the headlines, there are countless Salvadorans who have made meaningful contributions to art, culture, science, and community, driven by pride in their roots and love for their people. That is the El Salvador I hope others get to know..” – Jaime Serrano ’27
Global Insights travels the world this semester with delicious, fun and educational programming! Jaime Serrano ’27, software engineering major, will present the first spring Global Insights event on Tuesday, Feb. 10, beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509.
All students, staff, and faculty are invited to the free lunch-and-learn program. Cultural cuisine will be provided. Registration is required.
Global Insights interviewed Serrano about his upcoming presentation.
What interesting fact about El Salvador would you like the audience to learn more about during your presentation?
One fascinating and lesser-known aspect of El Salvador is how the Izalco Volcano, once known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific,” remained active for over 200 years and literally guided ships along the Pacific coast at night due to its constant eruptions.
Another remarkable story is Joya de Cerén, often called the “Pompeii of the Americas,” a pre-Hispanic village preserved under volcanic ash that offers an incredibly intimate look into everyday life over 1,400 years ago.
What is your favorite activity in El Salvador that you will share in the presentation?
One of my favorite activities in El Salvador is hiking and exploring mountains and small towns throughout the country. I especially enjoy combining this with discovering local food, since each region has its own traditional dishes and flavors. El Salvador is incredibly rich in both gastronomy and natural trails.
What do you miss most about being in El Salvador?
Without hesitation, what I enjoy and miss the most about El Salvador is the food. The country is full of incredible dishes, from fresh seafood to grilled meats and traditional desserts. What I miss the most are the seafood dishes and panes con gallina guisada, which are deeply tied to family gatherings and celebrations.
Where is your favorite place to visit?
I have two places I never get tired of visiting. One is the Port of La Libertad (shown on bottom), because of its vibrant atmosphere and incredible seafood. The other is the mountainous region, especially places like El Boquerón Volcano (shown here), and the Ruta de las Flores, a collection of colorful towns full of life, festivals, music, and amazing food both day and night.
Briefly describe the people and culture. What values or traditions help to shape both?
If I had to describe Salvadorans in one phrase, I would say we are people with “hardworking hands and open-door hearts.” We are a small country in size, but with a resilience and warmth that cannot be measured on any map. Hospitality without discrimination, a strong sense of family, humor in both good and difficult times, and a deep respect for work are values that strongly shape our culture.
“We are small in territory, but immense in resilience, warmth, and heart,” said Serrano.
Register for El Salvador Feb. 10
This program is sponsored by The Office of Global Education and co-hosted with the Office of Institutional Compliance and Title IX, the Cultural Centers and Office of Residence Life.
For more information, please contact [email protected] or 570-941-4841.
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