Students and faculty at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) came together on Friday, April 26 to celebrate the release of the “Sharing Our World” book. This book features stories from over 200 MATC students in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. It highlights the personal journeys of students through poetry, essays, and more. According to Erin Helland, an ESL instructor at MATC, students feel a strong sense of pride seeing their work published and being able to read their stories in English in front of others.
This year’s edition of the “Sharing Our World” book represents forty-seven countries. This is the fifth edition of the book, with each edition being developed in the past five years through MATC’s community education pathway. Students from diverse backgrounds and cultures are able to share their unique perspectives and experiences through this book, showcasing the rich tapestry of stories within the MATC community. The book serves as a platform for students to express themselves and connect with others through their writing.
The “Sharing Our World” book plays a significant role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among MATC students. It provides them with a space to share their voices, experiences, and creativity with others. The book reflects the diversity and inclusivity of the MATC campus, showcasing the talent and stories of students from various walks of life. Through this publication, students are able to celebrate their accomplishments and share their narratives with a wider audience.