Collin College’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program applauded the accomplishments of its students at a special celebration of achievement event on Dec. 16.
Students of all age ranges and experiences shared stories of their ESL journeys and their hopes for the future with their new language skills. One student was an attorney in Brazil who just began an international law program at Southern Methodist University after using ESL classes to brush up on her English. Another talked about possibly becoming an ESL teacher because of the impact the program made on her. Most spoke about the friendships they made and the confidence they gained through the program.
“I met people from all over the world in my English classes, and it was something wonderful,” student Cindy Morales said. “I’m more open to seeing others’ perspectives and seeing the world from different angles.”
Morales said being an ESL student was a privilege because it can prepare you for a better job or allow you to continue your education. She explained that it could be difficult but that she knew she could always ask for help from the faculty and staff, even on assignments in other classes.
“It’s not easy to come from another country and integrate yourself and be understood,” said Miriam Gayed, a student originally from Senegal. “Every day I spent here was very, very helpful to me. I learned from people, and I assume they learned from me because we all have something to share.
“It was a very good journey for me.”
In Fall 2022, the ESL program at Collin welcomed 125 students from 15 countries whose ages ranged from 17 to 59.
Mark Fischer, associate dean of academic affairs and workforce at the Plano Campus, said the students in the ESL program come from varied backgrounds, but they should all be commended on their work. The ESL Celebration of Achievement was started a few years ago to do just that.
“The best part of our jobs is when we hear success stories,” Fischer told the celebration attendants. “The best part of our day is when students come to us and say they can understand a little bit more when they read or watch the news, that they had a really good parent-teacher conference with their children’s instructor, and they can feel confident when they go into their degree programs.
“You should be very proud of yourselves because we are very proud of you.”