Last Wednesday the English Language Center celebrated Halloween on-campus by hosting a pumpkin carving event outside the S.T.D.M auditorium. 20 students from the UM community competed to win 3 prizes for their pumpkin carving skills. First prize winner, Joel, won the best overall pumpkin carving first prize award for his traditional design and precise carving skills. Two second prize winners were awarded the “scariest pumpkin” award for their devil designed pumpkin. Finally, two third prize winners were awarded the “most unique pumpkin” award for their pirate design complete with an eye patch.

For each of the attendees, this was their first time to carve a pumpkin. ELC teacher’s Marie Webb and Kerry Pusey demonstrated successful carving techniques and explained America’s passion and excitement for Halloween in the United States. Students that attended the event learned useful English vocabulary related to Halloween and were encouraged to use their English skills throughout the event.

This event was part of the Fall 2013 ELC Events series. All students from the UM community are invited to attend and they may register online for upcoming events by logging into the ELC independent learning page on Moodle and clicking on Fall 2013 events. Future events include a Hac-Sa beach clean-up, printmaking, karaoke contest, and movie nights.