RCGC International Culture and Food Event

Rowan College at Gloucester County (RCGC) English as a Second Language (ESL) students promoted understanding and communication through the language of food and sharing on Thursday, Dec. 6, during a campus international culture celebration.

Forty-five students representing 20 countries, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, China, Colombia, Haiti, Honduras, India, Iran, Mexico, Morocco, Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, United States, Venezuela and Vietnam, dressed in their native costumes and shared artifacts, pictures and music while enjoying the cuisine of different countries. “Passports” — with maps and common phrases — were handed out containing information about each of the countries. The annual International Culture and Food Event is coordinated by the College’s ESL instructors to recognize the many cultures and countries participating in the program.

“When I lived in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, I was asked to create an event to benefit the international community of the American School of Dubai. It was a hit. The sharing of food is truly a way to make friends and meet each other on common ground. I wanted to continue that tradition here in the United States,” said ESL Instructor Nancy Nolan. “This event is the best day of the year. It promotes a happy feeling and a sense of belonging for many students who are separated from all things familiar to them. Finding friendship and good will is something that I want to help my students find here in the United States.”

Fellow ESL instructor, Marisa Satterfield, agreed. “This is a way for the students to be able to embrace their culture and experience the cultures of other students that they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to know.”

For more information about the College’s ESL program, visit RCGC.edu/Workforce/AdultEducation.

Rowan College at Gloucester County’s 250-acre campus is located on Tanyard Road in Deptford, just off Exit 56 off of Route 55.

Photos:

RCGC English as a Second Language students promoted understanding and communication through the language of food and sharing on Dec. 6 during a campus international culture celebration.

Celebrating their culture with fashionable flair are (left to right) Eun Hee Chea of South Korea, Amanvir Kaur of India, Hosen Borhan of Bangladesh and Connie Quiroz of Mexico.