Aneshia Becton
MC301 Contributor
Middle and high school students from throughout Jackson and central Mississippi showed off their foreign language skills at Jackson State University April 4.
The Department of English and Modern Foreign Languages hosted its 12th annual “Mississippi Foreign Language Fair.” The JSU College of Liberal Arts was transformed into a display area for projects designed by students for grades and awards. Students designed in-depth maps of areas from which foreign languages originated as well as vividly colored piñatas showcasing the Latin American culture and other artistic shapes.
Alejandro Hernandez, a 9th grade student from Ridgeland High School, was delighted about being honored for his work.
“I know this was a competition but I did my best with my piñata and I got what I deserved,” said Hernandez.
In addition to the displays, there were dance and singing presentations, which included students miming to songs and singing songs in the foreign language of their choice.
Erica Chacon, a 7th grade student at Northwest Middle School in Jackson, was happy to be at Jackson State to present.
“I’m happy to be out of school, but I am even happier to be at JSU to present my talent. I was scared to be dancing in front of everyone but I did,” said Chacon.
Christina Tate, a 9th grader at Canton High School, said she also was nervous about messing up her dance.
“I was thinking I forgot my moves, but afterwards I was like I can’t believe I did that,” said Tate.
For one student, the fair helped her decide what to study in college in a few years.
“Spanish is going to be my major in college, after being chosen and testing excellent on my test it will be easier than other subjects because I already know some of it,” said Ashley Samsung, a 9th grader at Ridgeland High.
Patti Salamonson, a Ridgeland High school teacher, said all students in attendance had achieved at the fair. “Not only Ridgeland High students but all students were in a way honored today. In my eyes they all deserve awards, not ribbons,” said Salamonson.
Jasmine King, a 7th grader at Northwest Middle School stated: “I scored excellent on my test, but I feel like being chosen to be here was good too.”
Reggie Larson, a 7th grade student at Northwest, is motivated for next year’s MFLF. “I want to work hard so that next year I can come back and really compete with other schools; this was my first year,” said Larson.
Ashley McGee, a 9th grader from Canton, wants his friends to share this opportunity.
“We tested and that wasn’t fun but after that we were all into our projects and presentations. My friends heard the word test and didn’t want to try to attend, but after I show them what we did I think next year there will be more people here,” said McGee.
Esperanza Velasquez, foreign language fair public relations coordinator, felt this event was positive for the community.
“These are talented kids and we do this every year because it is needed,” said Valasquez.
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