The Sam Houston State University Common Reader Program is hosting several different events for students to participate in this semester based on the book American Like Me: Reflections on Life Between Cultures by America Ferrera.
The Common Reader Program annually selects a book with the goal of encouraging broad discussions amongst students and faculty members about important topics.
Events included are an essay contest, a film contest and Critical Thinking through Deliberative Dialogue.
The deadlines for the film contest and Critical Thinking through Deliberative Dialogue for this semester have already passed, but Student Success Initiatives Special Programs Coordinator Kimberly Johnson said it’s not too late for students to submit an entry for the essay contest.
“There is still time for the students to enter the essay contest,” Johnson said. “The deadline entry date is Nov. 29, 2020. There will be $14,000 given away in scholarships for the essay contest this year.”
Johnson said the Common Reader Program will be hosting more events in the spring.
“We will have the Critical Thinking through Deliberative Dialogue again in the spring semester as well as the essay contest,” Johnson said. “There may be a juried art show that the Department of Art sponsors. They did have one this fall. Other contests in the past include a research poster and a spoken word contest. We are hoping to bring those back in the future.”
Johnson said if any students, faculty or staff would like a copy of the book, they can pick one up in room 111 of the Farrington Building. For those not on campus, there is also an option to send an email complete with a name and mailing address to commonreader@shsu.edu to receive a copy in the mail.
Johnson said she is available to answer any questions regarding the Common Reader Program, including those from anyone who is interested in being part of the committee that selects the book for the year. For more information, contact Johnson at 936-294-2227, send an email to commonreader@shsu.edu or visit https://www.shsu.edu/dept/fye/common-reading-program/index.html.