For the final Q & A in honor of International Week, the NWN interviewed senior Alyssa Alvarez about her Hispanic culture.

NWN: What are you most proud of about your culture?

Alvarez: Well, I’m Ecuadorian, and I love being Ecuadorian. There aren’t that many of us, but when we all come together, it’s great. About my culture in general, we are always embracing each other, it’s so fun. We may be a little loud, but, hey, it just comes with being Hispanic.

NWN: What is your least favorite thing about your culture?

Alvarez: The stereotypes.

NWN: What are the most common misconceptions about your culture?

Alvarez: That we’re all Mexican; it’s a common stereotype. Or that we’re all here illegally. It may be what comes with the culture, but I don’t want to be known as just another Mexican. Not that I have anything against them, trust me, I don’t. It’s just that I am Alyssa Alvarez, I am Ecuadorian, and I’m here to strive for better.

NWN: What if your favorite Hispanic meal?

Alvarez: Ornado. It’s meat, usually pig, with papas de queso and rice.