A visual storytelling workshop took place at Norwich University, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to embrace the art of modeling and stepping out of their comfort zones to tell their unique stories. 

“The wonderful thing about the workshop was that it showed that everyone has a story to tell,” said Nicole Perault, 21, a senior civilian nursing major from Nashua, New Hampshire.  

The Jan.24 workshop, conducted by Bailey Beltramo, an alumnus of Norwich University (’17), aimed to reveal the multifaceted identities of Norwich University students beyond their academic roles. 

Two Norwich University seniors, Nicole Perault and Aira Manampan, The Guidon Editor-in-chief, volunteered to be models for the workshop. 

Integrating visual arts and personal narratives, the workshop is part of a broader initiative to enhance students’ media literacy and communication skills. It encourages exploring various aspects of identity, professional aspirations, and personal interests. 

“The event was great because it didn’t matter what background that you came from. Corp or civilian, athlete or not, it didn’t matter at all,” Perault said.  

“Being a model is a bit nerve-wracking… I modeled as a nurse and as an actress for Pegasus Players, and those are two groups that are essential to who I am today,” Perault said. 

The workshop highlights the importance of visual storytelling in today’s world. It empowers students to narrate their unique stories, bridging the gap between various academic fields and life experiences. 

“I stepped out of my comfort zone by having my pictures taken,” said Aira Manampan, 21, a senior Corps of Cadets psychology major from Belleville, New Jersey.  

The initiative not only aids in personal growth but also contributes to Norwich’s broader educational goals. It fosters a multifaceted learning environment, promoting well-rounded experiences for students. 

“The potential this project has for participants’ future endeavors is versatile,” said Manampan.  

“No matter what you study or decide to do for a career, learning how to tell your story and listening to the stories of others will allow you to better understand and communicate with others,” said Amy Woodbury Tease, Associate Professor of English and Chair, Department of Global Humanities. 

This initiative at Norwich University represents a growing trend in education to incorporate varied learning and expression forms. It allows students to explore and articulate their experiences in innovative ways, enriching both their academic and personal growth. 

“The ability to tell stories through images can also support how you communicate data, which is important in technical and scientific fields,” Woodbury Tease said. “It can help you to advocate for a cause by eliciting emotions through images in promotional materials, websites, or social media.” 

 “Through this project, I can show different parts of myself to people I see on a daily basis in class and to those whom I don’t know personally,” Manampan said.