MATC’s English as a Second Language (ESL) Department hosted a book launch event today called Sharing Our World. Student authors from all MATC campus locations read their writing at this event. It featured personal narratives, thoughts, and reflections shared by the English Language Learners of MATC. Each story is an example of the resilience and diversity at MATC.
“This year’s publication features the writing of 230 student authors ranging from 18 to 84 years old and representing 47 different countries. By offering their narratives, our student authors not only find their voices but also build bridges of empathy and unity. In a world where language barriers can create feelings of isolation, the act of sharing personal stories becomes a powerful tool for connection and understanding…” said ESL Instructor and ESL Instructional Chair at Walker’s Square Erin Helland.
“Students, from those with very limited English to those who are almost fluent, have been able to express themselves through writing. Some have seen growth in their language abilities by actively participating in various editions of this publication. To date, we’ve amassed over 1,050 stories from students originating from 78 different countries over the course of five books. We aspire to continue sharing these amazing stories,” she said.
The 2024 Sharing Our World book launch event featured 22 student authors reading stories from the book as well as three student emcees. In addition, students received their free copy of the publication at the event. The students ranged in ESL level from level 2 to level 6. This is the 3rd annual event held at Walker’s Square.
The photo gallery below will give you a glimpse of some of the MATC students who participated in the event. All student participants are listed below the gallery.
Students who participated by campus:
Downtown – 6 students
Jaqueline De la Cruz
Olena Dieieva
Khadija Ettaib
Thao Moua
Abisai Lopez Velasco
Anton Valinov
Mequon – 2 students
Galina Lalanne
Kpru Moo
Oak Creek – 4 students
Alicia Aviles
Ivonne Diaz
Alma Gallegos Frias
Yuliana Gonzalez
Walkers Square – 5
Angelica Leon Flores
Maria Rosario Esquivias Franco
Kamado Matchuvima
Liliana Temix
Sergio Zaragoza-Gines
West Allis – 5
Nadiro Ahmed
Chiaki Hael
Aura De Leon
Minny (Sarabjit) Mokha
Amelia Zetina
*This story was updated on Monday, April 29.
