Challenges

weeks we learned from doctors that he had cancer. That was a terrible moment for me and my family. All my brothers and sisters came to my parents house, but we could not help him. We were so powerless before that disease. All winter time was terrible for us. After four months, he died. It was March 24, 2010. That was the worst day of my life. I could not believe he was not with us anymore. I felt so bad, but I needed to think about my little baby inside of me. I tried to be strong, but it was so hard. All my family was so bad at that moment. We lost the most important person in our lives. My mother was alone now, and she was sick again. My husband and I decided to live with my mother. In May, my husband and I moved to my parents house. I returned to my home with my mom with another person now that was my husband. My pregnancy was going well. We learned we had a baby girl. On July 16, 2010, my baby girl was born. It was a big day for me. I became a mother for the first time. Finally, everyone was happy. All this year was a big test for me.

My Story

Reda Ayman Ahmad T Ali

Jordan, Level 1

I have many reasons why I came late to the United States of America. My father is an American citizen. I was born in Jordan in 2002. My father wanted me to be born in his country of origin because he wanted me to learn my native language and my native country’s traditions and my religion. As I grew up when I was nine years old I asked him,” Could I go to America?” His response was no because you are still a little boy. After that, I felt sad and then I completed my education normally. Next, I finished my high school, so I asked my father again to go to America and he agreed. When I got to America I started working with my father at his gas station, but I didn’t like the work very much because the area was so dangerous. After that, I started looking for another job, then I found a job with my cousin in a warehouse. This wasn’t a bad job, so I continued with it until one of the people I met in my work invited me to work with him in a burger restaurant, and I agreed. At the same time, I enrolled in the college to complete my education. As you can see, this is my story. it is a story that started a little difficult, and until now I suffer from difficulty, So I hope to rearrange my thoughts.

My Story

Tetiana Dubiv

Ukraine, Level 1

The day I came to America, I thought that I was a very happy person. I come from Ukraine, namely, from the city Ivano-Frankivsk, which is in the west of Ukraine. That’s where I’ve lived most of my life, and I always remember it with great joy. I have always dreamed of visiting America, but these dreams became even stronger. When I was pregnant with my son, I was twice at the USA embassy to get a visa, but unfortunately my visa was not approved. However, after the birth of our son, namely on May 7 2019, we learned that we won the green card. After completing all the documents and obtaining a visa, we had an obstacle on the way to America. It was then that a new disease appeared in the world. It was Covid-19. The planes stopped flying because of Covid-19. We had nothing to fly to America, and our dream could not come true. So, we started looking for another way out. That’s how we learned about the so-called special flights. So, in May 2020 we were able to fly to America. I will never forget this day. Now I am building a new life here, with new dreams and goals that will surely come true. As you can see, despite all the obstacles, we were able to make our dream come true. There are still a lot of interesting things ahead.

My Bad Years

Mallak Abuazzab

Jordan, Level 1

The three years from 2018 to 2021 made a big change in my life. It started on November 15th, 2018 when my family got ready for our first vacation. The traveling members of my family were my mom, Mary, my thirteen year old sister, Lolo, my one year old sister, and me. I was 17 years old. We decided to come to America to attend my cousin’s engagement party and to have some fun. First, we came here without my father and my 19 years old brother because of the visa. We stayed here until January fifth, 2019. Our first two weeks were good. The rest of the trip was bad. We had to prepare for the party without help from my cousin. We made preparations for the entire engagement party. We did not go out, also did not see anything here only once they took us to the park. It was a very bad trip.

When we returned to Jordan in January, the first week was fine, but then our life became very bad. My mom found out that my dad was having an affair with his teenage girlfriend. It was disgusting because his eldest son was in university. Why was he doing this after twenty two years of marriage? My mother wanted to get divorced, but he refused. They were arguing day and night. My brothers and I could not sleep. My mother asked her brothers to help her and make my father divorce her, but no one accepted. We were like this for six months. Everyday there were problems between them. My mom told him to get out of the house, and leave her with us so we could live in peace. Whenever he wanted he could come and see us. My father refused, so my mother left the house on June 1st, 2019 and went away. She took my little sister Lolo with her because she was sick with seizures and took medication. Then my father forbade us from talking to her because he thought this was going to make her come home. My dad thought my mother was going to come back to see us, but my mother did not come back.

He wanted to marry me to someone. The news reached my mother after two days, and she got crazy. My psychology was in ruins. I did not talk to any of my brothers or my father anymore. After that, my mother came to see us and talked to me. She told me that you do not agree no matter what happens. I told her that if something official happens I would kill myself. I scared my mom because I was so serious.

Two weeks later, she came again and told me and my brothers that she had booked tickets. We were going to America. We did not tell anyone because we were going secretly. One day later on July 14, 2019, she came to take me and my sister to the airport and we went that same night. We were very sad for my brother that he could not come with us, but there was no solution. When we were in the air, my father found out we were gone. He went crazy when we arrived, he told my mother that he would kill her, when she came back to Jordan. And he told her that he wanted my sisters and me and also said that if she gave us to him he would divorce her. My mom did not answer and stopped talking to him. My mom got so sad because of my brother. Actually all of us were sad too. After that, we started a very difficult time suffering with my aunt and her daughter and starting to live in America without money or a home. All this big change happened in these few years.

Where I Was from and Where I Am Going

Dina Shagayo

Tanzania, Level 1

My life in my country was difficult. I was from Tanzania camp and I was born there. We were people who didn’t have anything, but they gave us food, clothes for free. We were studying but no job. We were living like the orphans. We studied well, but when we finished school we get farming. When you have job, they pay sh25 in USA is like $10 a month. I came in USA in 3 years ago. It was by the grace of God. We lived in my camp for 18 years. I was feeling good to come here because coming here was my dream when I was in African. In USA we are living good with my family. Also, I remember my sister who is alone with her children, but we believe she will come. I need to finish my degree and take 6 months to study transportation business. After 6 months I will take flight attendance class. I like so much to work in flight because I can help people who travel and who don’t know English, but they know Swahili, Kirundi, Kibembe, Kinyarwanda and some African languages that I know. But, if it will be impossible I will be a model. Also, after all that I hope to get a good job. I will get married and start my own family. Sometimes life can be difficult in different ways. It may be because of life change, poverty or war. However, when you stand up and do everything and praying with faith nothing will be impossible. My life was bad, but I am grateful that, I and my family have a good life here in American.

Where I am From and Where I am Going

Valentyna Makurina

Ukraine, Level 1

I was born in Ukraine, but when I was forty -seven years old I moved in United States. Ukraine is my homeland. I was born in Ukraine, grew up and studied there. I love its beautiful landscapes, forests, and rivers. After graduating I got a job in a bank, I worked as a counting cashier. It was a responsible job, and it was a valuable experience. We had a friendly team, and I liked my job. Around the same time, I met my loved one, got married and had a daughter. I was happy in my country. A little later, because we wanted to be with our family together, my husband, daughter and I decided to move to the United States. This decision was not easy for us, because we understood that we would have to start all over again and study and look for a new job. But the support of our parents, brothers and sisters helped us decide to move. And so, we are in America with a different language, culture, and lifestyle. We started from scratch. Here is my first job, I started working in the hospital in the kitchen. Here I first learned what part time is and for me it was a new experience. To communicate well with people, I need a good knowledge of the English language, and therefore I went to Tri-c to learn it. Next, I am going to take courses in office management and have a job I love. I know that my arduous work, will to live, passion to do what I love will allow me to achieve my goals. This is a good motivation for a good future. I hope America will become my second home.

About Covid 19

Mimoza Vodinaj

Albania, Level 2

Since the Corona virus started, people’s lives have changed a lot. The way of working and living has also changed. People have been staying at home and working in the computer. I read a lot of experiences in the internet, and I want to share them with my classmates. It is miracle how people become productive, and have shared their experiences with people around the world. I also have a real event from my sister’s family. When the Covid 19 started, my niece prepared masks in her home. She prepared them with her love, and shared with people in her social media. A lot of people came in her home and took them. Her family have been working day and night. This virus has connected members of family, which is admirable. People have been helping each other. However, this virus in dangerous and unpredictable.

My Eyes

Irankunda Ndaruzaniye

Kenya, Level 2

One day in Africa, I had sick eyes. I went through some experiences that I will never forget. It happened when I went to fetch water with my friends. And my parents were working at a restaurant. My siblings were at home playing with their friends. When I was fetching water, my eyes started hurting and giving me pain. I started to touch my eyes and I told my friends to look into my eyes and see if there’s anything in my eyes. Then one girl named Janine looked into my eyes, and she said nothing was in there. After that, I went home and I slept. I didn’t tell anyone at home that my eyes have been hurting and giving me pain all day. The next morning when I woke up, my eyes were red, and my big brother asked, why are your eyes red? I answered, since yesterday they were hurting me. But I didn’t tell anyone here. When my parents heard that, they were so terrified. They took me to the hospital, and l no one helped me at all. My eyes continued to hurt for like three month, but it seemed like three years to me. At last my dad decided to take me to church to pray for me. Then they prayed for me. And after a few days my eyes got better. I was really happy when my eyes got better. Now my eyes have healed and now I can see well as other people. And I thank God for healing my eyes.

Thank you so much.

Change Is the Most Interesting Thing in Life

Uliana Stanishchuk

Ukraine, Level 3

Often each of our days is similar to the previous one. We do the same things every day, do the same things, and generally have

our own routine. The usual constant schedule of our life creates such conditions under which we get used to the same thing at the same time, and this is definitely good for us. We are in a protected, unchanging circle called “Everyday Life,” but what if something or someone suddenly breaks the integrity of this circle? Will he make a hole in it or even tear it up and make a square out of it? And how do we do it ourselves? This “suddenly” is called change. I belong to the group of most people who are afraid of change. I got used to a stable life and even the thought of any changes make me nervous. Some changes in my life happened without my desire, but these changes opened my eyes to life and all its beauty. The changes were both positive and negative.

The first positive change in my life was the birth of my son. I was so happy and excited. With the birth of my son, I became much kinder, calmer, more caring. I enjoyed my baby growing up. I watched his first smile, his first word “mom”, his first step and dance. When he went to first grade, I cried with happiness, how handsome and elegant he is. I understood what motherly love is.

The second positive change in my life was moving to the United States. I was so delighted with the scale of the cities, the architecture, the design of the buildings. And I was struck by the fact that Americans are very friendly people, when I’m in the store or at the gas station everyone smiles, greets and asks “how are you today”? When I’m at a doctor’s office or at a bank, they always try to help me. This attitude warms my heart even more, I was convinced that I wanted to live in this place. I also grew to want to help and support people.

The third positive change is that I broke up with my ex-husband. Living with him was hell for me. He drank every day, did not spend the night at home, and when he got fat he came home and started beating me. He also destroyed me morally. Over the years of marriage, I have accumulated many complexes. There has never been a day in 5 years of our lives that I did not cry. I cried with despair and shame, helplessness and fear. But one day I said enough. I am very tired of my married life. I realized that I’m not a toy to play with, not a punching bag, not a clown to be laughed at, I’m a woman. I deserve respect, love and understanding. Now I am much stronger than I was before. I feel safe, I am happy, joyful.

Finally, the negative change is that my family lives in another country. My family is a part of me and I am very sad that I can’t spend time with them like it was before. That I can’t come to them for Christmas, Easter, or make a surprise for birthday. I can’t be with my grandmother when she has high blood pressure, I can’t check my father’s blood sugar level, I can’t hug my mother and help plant flowers in the garden, I can’t meet my childhood friend over coffee, I can’t be in Ukraine to see the medical university graduates. It’s very hard. Sometimes I feel empty, like I don’t have enough air. I didn’t understand all these things before because I was in a comfortable environment. I changed my outlook on life. I began to appreciate the time that I spend with family and friend.

Analyzing the changes in my life, I begin to understand what was not a value for me before. As our lives change, so do we. They paint our lives in different colors, make it bright. Changes have taught me to appreciate what I have, to love even more the people who are dear to me. Now I listen more than I speak, I think more than do something. I learned a lot, and most importantly analyze the situation. It does not matter whether our changes are positive or negative, the main thing is that we draw learn from them.

Narrative Essay

Iulia Coclenci

Moldova, Level 3

Once upon a time… All love story starts with that and ends with … they got married and live a long happy life and die on the same day. Unfortunately, in our childhood fairy tales, no one says that real-life starts just after the marriage begin and this life is a continuing war for being happy and living a long life together. My happy love story starts after we get married and there were too many events, but especially one of them brought us closer to each one and made us stronger. Is like in the song Counting Stars by OneRepublic “Everything that kills me makes me feel alive.”

One of those stories was in the fall of 2014. This was our first year in the USA without language, support, and knowledge about what this country represents. At this time, we had just twin boys-one-year-old. Somehow, it had been good but not for long, until one day I left boys

sleeping alone in the car in Florida state and I went to the store to shop. Somebody saw that and called the police because there is a law prohibiting leaving children in the car. What a day… Finally, the police left me to go home with the boys just with a court ticket, and thank God for that! I was so scared because I was thinking that was not the end and that I flew back to my home country with the children a couple of days after the incident.

If you ever heard how a heart can break into a thousand pieces, you know that is the sound of despair of a mother who leaves her babies for a long term. I left my twins at my parents’ house and flew back to the USA to solve my irresponsible decision that I made once. The back flight was the longest flight in my life. Fifteen hours of guilty tears and negative thoughts that I am the worst mother in the world. Only one thing that covered my negative storm was that they are in good hands with my mother and there will be a time when I can take them in my hands again.

Once I returned back I went to travel with my husband. He started to work as a truck driver and I was just like a passenger helping him with calls, maps, and documents. So, there began my way to learn and use it at the same time as the English Language. This was the first positive factor resulting from that horrible story. The second was living with my husband in 4 square feet for five months. We didn’t have to rent anything and we saved all the money for a lawyer and to bring children back. We save on everything first of all on food expenses. Sometimes we stayed hungry for days. Sometimes we had been eating one canned food for two adults once a week. It was hungry, hard, and painful, but we were together and together we were stronger. Also, from that experience, I discovered my husband from a different perspective. I found him responsible, very kind, and very wise. Our marriage stepped to the next level. At least one of us needed to stay wise at that time because there wasn’t a day that I didn’t cry. Being together in hard situations resulted in those positive personal challenges.

“After the Storm Comes the Sun,” is the title of a book written by Shelby Wagner. After that adventure, the sun came into our lives too. The lawyer won the court with minimum negative effect for me. Next, we figured out our problems such as finances, renting an apartment, and being ready to bring our children back to the USA. We bought tickets back to my home country and finally, my suffering ended at the time when I held at my chest, my baby boys. And how all the fairytale ends with a huge party the same as and my story ended with a happy huge birthday party for my husband on thirty years.

In conclusion, this story made a deep scratch in my human being and helped me to grow from an irresponsible teenager to a mother and a wife. I usually never tell this story to anyone because I was in charge of everything, but here I wrote it because I don’t want to be sneaky anymore. A guarantee for a long and happy life together as a family is to take responsibility for your choices no matter if they were right or bad, recognize them, and be prepared to change yourself to be better for those who love you. As a result, my family became closer, much stronger, and more valuable. I hope that my story will end with…they lived together a long and happy life cherishing each other died on the same day and their children and grandchildren grew up the greatest people and told me their grand’s parents love story … The End.

Citation: One Republic. Lyrics to “Counting Stars ”Genius, 2013, https://genius.com/Onerepublic-counting-stars-lyrics Wagner, Shelby. After the Storm Comes the Sun. Independently Published, 2021

Moving to the United States as a Teenager

Kathia Vizcarrondo

Puerto Rico, Level 3

When I was 16 years old, my mom got a call from one of her friends. She told her that at her job, where hiring and that she could start as soon as the next day if she wanted it. My mom and dad decided that it was a great opportunity, and my mom called her friend back and brought her plane ticket. Everything happened fast during the same week we did not have much. She only left with one suitcase and 40 dollars in her pocket. Two months later, my siblings and I met her to start school over there. We lived with my mom’s friend and another family in a 2-bedroom apartment.

Living with so many people we did not know was a challenge but starting in a new high school was complicated. I knew some English but

not enough, and I found it difficult to concentrate, make friends, and understand the material. I remember I used to cry every day because I did not want to go to school; my mom tried to convince me, and so did my dad, but I felt so bad that I stopped going and dropped out. They enrolled me in homeschooling. While I was at home doing homeschooling, I would walk my sibling to the bus stop and school; at this point, our living situation was not the best.

We started having problems with my mom’s friend; anything we would do would bother her. She would say we were too loud or scream at us for looking for something to eat in the kitchen; she would blame us for whatever would happen, she said she did not want us in the kitchen, so we were not allowed to eat anything until she made something to eat. If we wanted something to drink, we had to ask her or her daughter. It got so bad that my mom would buy us snacks and drinks. We would hide it in a suitcase to eat something while we waited for my mom to come home from work so we could eat. My mom ended up giving me a debit card so we could walk to Walmart or McDonald’s to eat something because sometimes she would not get home until late at night. After my dad met with us in Orlando, we moved into a motel.

This was the beginning of something good, yes, we were living in a motel, and yes, it was not always good, but it was just us together as a family. I ended up finishing school early because I was homeschooling and decided to enroll in a technical college right in front of where we were living. I took the baking and Pastry course.

We had started going to a church close to where we lived, and they were so friendly that they would help us in any way they could. The pastor’s wife was an elementary school teacher, and I would go in the summer to help her set up her classroom cleaning and accommodating. When I turned 18, I signed up as a volunteer to help her In the classroom with the students, and I decided what I wanted to major in. I loved being in the school every day and helping the children. Especially the ESL students because I understood what they were going thru in a way. And it made me want to do it every day.

Being in the school made me realize that I’m not the only one with problems, as sad as it sounds. And I feel that it helped shape me into the woman I am now. Because what I went thru in my mom’s friend’s house helped me become more mature and independent. But helping in the school made me more compassionate and showed me something that I would love to do in the long run.

When I Moved to the United States Dolores Cruz Ramirez

Dominican Republic, Level 1

I moved to the US in September 28, 2019 with my family. That was a great experience for me because my life totally changed. That day found a new life, different from everything I had lived. There is a better quality of life here, but in my country I was more comfortable, for example I had my own business and I was with my whole family. It was an experience for me because I had to learn many new things, like different driving rules and different cooking methods from my country. I came here with my children and none of us speak English at that time. Everything was new for us and very difficult, but the time was very nice because I had been separated from my husband for 10 years. My husband lived and worked here and us in the Dominican Republic. First, it was difficult. then we adapted and learn new thing. In addition children began to study and I began to work. Finally we are very happy all together. This was my experience in the United States. Although I was very afraid of change, now I am very happy here. I love everything in the US, and I would like to live here forever.

Academic Explorations

Good Teachers vs. Bad Teachers

Busra Duzdag

Turkey, Level 1

There are several criteria for defining a teacher as good or bad. One of the most important characteristics of good teachers is respect for their students. This will increase the students’ self-confidence and help them with the learning process. Another criterion of good teachers is understanding their students in all circumstances. Sometimes students might have some medical or personal problems; so, their needs should be considered by teachers. This would indirectly affect the learning process of students because if students know that their teachers understand them, they will be more engaged in their classes. Finally, good teachers follow recent developments. Especially after the pandemic, online classes started, so teachers needed to update their technology experience. A good teacher knows how to keep students awake in an online class. On the other hand, I do not think there are bad teachers, but maybe there are less good teachers.

My Opinion about the Comparison between U.S. and Mexico Daniel Emiliano Barrera Miranda

México, Level 2

I am going to talk about my experience living in the U.S. It has been hard to use to; I understood that everything is different in this country, and I had to take it seriously because first, all the rules here are stricter; in comparison, with my own country Mexico. Second, I love the passion of the teachers to teach us in the school. I don’t know if this behavior is the same in all the schools, but I feel lucky to have the opportunity to know all the teachers that I could know. Third, I like that most of the people in this country wants to improve themselves in an educational field; It is completely different in comparison with México, that there like minority wants to make it serious and achieve more educational goals. Fourth, I like this multicultural environment that the country has; In the U.S. are so many different cultures and for this reason everybody can be more open mind and of course they have an expanded view. In comparison, with Mexico we don’t have enough of these characteristics about multicultural things. Finally, I am going to talk about the fourth things that I love of México, First, I love the sense of humor of México. Second, the Mexican´s food is so delicious and spicy. Third, I like that the weather in México isn’t extreme than here. Fourth, I don’t know if it is just my perspective, but I think that Mexicans are more talkative than here. In conclusion, each country has their own good characteristics and I like both, but I always be in loved with my own country of course.

Life with the Children vs Life without the Children

Sona Qaderi

Afghanistan, Level 3

Life is plain and ordinary until you have children. When you have kids, everything will change in your life, nothing will remain the same. You will have problems and responsibilities and on the other hand you will have more joy and happiness in your life. Life without children is different in many ways from life with children for many different reasons, such as: having lots of responsibilities, changes in your sleeping schedule, spending money, having troubles with studying, and having a job and having fun, blessing and a good reason for a prosperous and happy life.

First of all, I want to talk about the responsibilities that parents have. When you don’t have children, your responsibilities are less and you are just responsible for your problems and necessities but when you have kids your responsibilities get more and more, and you are in charge of everything of your children as well, especially if you are the

mother. Parents should take care of their children’s food, clothes, place for living, their future, and their education and so on. For example, When I didn’t have a baby, I loved having meals outside and I loved fast foods, but now that I have a one year old son I have to make healthy and fresh foods everyday inside my house. I used to stay awake late at night and stay asleep late in the morning, but now I can’t because of my baby’s sleeping schedule, I cannot even take a short nap during the day.

Unlike having no children time, you don’t have enough time to study and have a job. The second influence of kids on their parents is having trouble with continuing their education and having a job. No one knows what it is really like to work full time and be a mom more than a mother with children. It’s very hard to go to college or have a job when you have kids, even if someone takes care of your kids or you hire a nanny still you don’t have peace of mind. But when you don’t have children, you can do everything easily.

From the moment your child is born, your expenses will go up. When you have kids, you have to pay for all of their expenses. You must provide for them house, food, health care and their education expenses and they vary depending on the age of the child. Based on the most recent data from the Consumer Expenditures Survey, “A family will spend approximately $12.980 annually per child in a middle income ($59.200-$107.400), two child, married-couple family” (Lino). In our culture when you have children you have to supply everything for them until they get bigger, especially for the girls until they get married their parents must pay for all of their expenditures. So, I think each parent should first make sure that they have enough money in their budget then decide for having kids.

For each parent their children are a source of joy and happiness. With the kids parents feel the way that they never felt before. With my son I enjoy from little things, for example: every day when I finish my classes and go downstairs my son start laughing and running toward me and it makes me happy, every day when I wake up and I say good morning to my son he starts smiling and playing with me it makes me very happy. I never experienced this kind of happiness before in my life. In my country we say that the kids are angels and they bring happiness, joy and blessing for the parents and the houses. Some people believe that the people who have children live longer than the people who stay childless “Researchers believe it is because adults’ immune systems are refreshed when toddlers go to nursery and start picking up infections. During the course of someone’s life, their immune system can become weaker. But when kids start bringing infections home, their moms and dads immune systems get a workout” (Hayes).

In conclusion life with the children vs life without the children have lots of differences and similarities. But according to my text there is more differences than similarities, as I mentioned in my first paragraph after having children everything will transform, sometime you will have troubles and challenges and sometimes you will have joy and pleasure in your life. In order to raise your children you need more money, patience, enough time for your kids. When you have kids your responsibilities get more and you will have less time for yourself but the good thing is that you have the most valuable and precious feelings in the world with your kids.

1- Lino, Mark. (2017, January 13). “The cost of raising a child.”. U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Cost of Raising a Child | USDA 2- Hayes, Andy. (2019, February 25). “Parents live longer than people who don’t have children, study suggests.”. Sky News. Parents live longer than people who don’t have children, study suggests | UK News | Sky News

Learning English

Julita Nakaro

Tanzania, Level 3

My name is Julita Nakaro and I’m from Tanzania and I speak Swahili. I came to the United States of America when I was 16 years old, I didn’t speak or understand English. When I first got here my first impression was to learn English so that it can help me to communicate and make friends. Learning English is very important, especially because it helps me to communicate with other people. Learning has been a fun and enjoyable journey in my whole life. The three important ways for me to learn English are: School, friends and watching TV.

One way was at school. I went to two different schools, in two different states. My first school was in Tucson Arizona. When I started school my English teacher told me that every day after school I needed to take five books home. So I started reading them and participating in class too was helpful, the way they were teaching was so unique and I was thinking it was just like where I come from the ways teachers teach

there. The second school that I attended was Lincoln West High School of global studies. They were a little different from learning English but the English teacher was doing kind of like my other high school. Basically we used not to do things like group words and some of the teachers usually give you a lot of work and they don’t really explain much. That was really challenging to me because my English wasn’t improving that much.

Second, I learn English from friends. Whenever we get homework, we will meet in the library and start doing homework. They will explain to me more then five times until I get it, then after that they will come with a game that is kind of the same with the homework we have to help me better. After that we will play other games of pronouncing words because they knew my pronunciation wasn’t good enough so they will help with that too. Some of my friends where from Asian countries and they come to learn English and new opportunities, we used to have a lot in common and that make us connected and start helping each other in learning English journey.

Third way of learning was tv shows. When I first came here I didn’t know any English words. The tv show called Criminal minds helped me a lot .When I started to watch the TV show, it taught me how to greet people in English. My first words to learn were Hello, good morning, and how are you. My first time going to a supermarket I used those words and I was happy about it because I knew that was a great start. Watching the Show with subtitles on was so helpful.

Finally, learning English hasn’t been an easy journey for me because I started learning English when I was 16 but I didn’t give up. Every day I’m learning new things and I’m proud of myself for being able to communicate with people around me and help others like me whose English is their second language.

The Journey to Learning English Marzan Hossain

Bangladesh, Level 3

From my childhood I was told the necessities to learn and be able to use English. In my country, Bangladesh, the first language is Bengali but if there’s any second language, it is English. In Bangladesh, everybody knows that to get a good job or to go study abroad or work abroad, you need good knowledge in English. There were a few things that helped me learn and improve my English.

My first exposure to English came from my mother. She had been a teacher all her life and taught fundamental English in her classes. From her, I learned all the English alphabets and learned how to make simple words and sentences at my young age before starting my school. Then, when I got into school, I learned English in a broader way with all those other students. They started teaching English from kindergarten. In kindergarten, using English was important in every class and outside because it was an English Medium School. English medium schools focus on speaking and grammar skills in students. I started my 3rd grade in a different school because our family had to relocate. It was a Bengali Medium School. And English wasn’t mandatory except the English classes. Bengali Medium Schools don’t focus on speaking skills at all. So even though we always had two English classes in every grade, the development didn’t happen because we never really practiced speaking in English.

Although, English had been taught to us since kindergarten, we didn’t really use it in our real life which didn’t really help us learn well. A change had happened for me when I was in grade 9. A new teacher came. And he had a totally different method to teach English. He had us practice speaking in English every day. Taught grammar in a different way so that students could understand easily. After that, I slowly began to speak in English in his classes. Sometimes outside with my friends. I started to text in English. I was enjoying it.

Learning any language can be difficult at first. It’s important to listen as much as possible to improve your listening skill and vocabulary. From a young age I used to watch sports almost everyday with my brother. We used to watch soccer everyday and never missed our favorite team play. I used to see my brother paying attention to the commentaries and I had always wanted to imitate him. Over the years I realized that I started to understand many things, like phrases, difficult words, and sentences. So, watching soccer played a great role in my learning process.

Real game changer was when I moved to an English-speaking country. When I came to the US, I could barely make a long conversation with an English-speaking person. It sorts of frustrated me.

As I started working in the US, I had to collaborate with my co-workers and managers which helped me with my speaking skills.

It was clear to me that listening to others and keeping the speaking habit can enhance your knowledge in any language. Finally, when I was introduced with audiobooks, it changed my life. I was improving on my listening everyday and I was seeing improvements.

This year I started my college in Cuyahoga Community College in Ohio. I have three English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. I am lucky enough to have all great teachers in those classes. I am still learning English everyday to improve and I know it will go on for a while because I still have a lot to improve. Without the help of my parents and the teachers I wouldn’t be able to come this far.

Learning English comes from more than one place. I welcomed every chance I got, to learn this beautiful language.

How I Learned English

Elysee Kwitace Camara

Guinea, Level 3

My English language learning process was such a long journey with many challenges and fun. While some people find the English language to be difficult to learn, others find it fun, because they have better techniques and ways that help them learn faster and easily. This fact applies to me as well. When I got to the USA, my English language improved in two years. I was able to speak more clearly than many people that had been living in the USA. Here are three ways that help me learn the English language faster: learn some basic English, watch some English movies and Tv shows and I listen to a lot of English music.

I started learning basic English in my home country Guinea, when I was in middle school. I was about 12 years old, and we had a teacher who was only there to teach us basic English. During the first year, our English class was only once a week with one hour of class. The class was challenging with so much fun at the beginning, because we had difficulties with pronunciation. For instance, I still remember that I mispronounced the word “water”. During that period in middle school, I learned how to count from 1 to 100, the alphabet and the days of the week. We also learned some English expressions and good manners such as how to apologize. All in all, that middle school English class helped me a lot, and I created good memories with all my old friends.

The next way that helps me learn English is that I watch a lot of movies and Tv shows. Watching these Tv Shows helped me learn how to pronounce and spell some words like a native speaker. This was the most challenging process, because it is often hard to watch the movie and read the subtitles at the same time, especially if you are not a native speaker. Games of Thrones, which is my favorite Tv show, Vikings and Money Heist are some examples. In addition, I can spend about one hour and half watching an episode that is 50 minutes long, which is very complicated. To put it briefly, learning English by watching movies improves not only your vocabulary and pronunciation, but it also gives you a better understanding on how to give general ideas.

Listening to music is another way I use to learn English. Since this is one of my favorite hobbies, learning English in this way makes it more enjoyable. Some English singers such as Rihanna, Ed Sheeran help me with their songs. The song “I found a love” by Ed Sheeran is so lyrically written and clear that I learned and I am able to sing the full song. By practicing this I improve not only my grammar, but also my pronunciation. Another example is the song “Man Down” by Rihanna. Sometimes, I have difficulties toward this process, but with the consistency that I have, I keep my learning on track. Altogether, this is the easiest way to learn, because by listening to a song lyric more than 5 times, it gives your brain a better understanding on how to say these words every time you see them.

To sum up, the English language learning process has been such a long journey with many challenges starting from the first day. But with all of these ways of learning, I have been able to improve my English a lot. Now, I am able to speak clearly, to lead a conversation, but there is still more to learn. As long as I keep my learning on track with consistency, with hard work and a lot of practice, the goals of speaking clearly and fluently as a native speaker will be accomplished.

Learning Morals and Character Development

Banan Shikh Third Place Prizewinner

Syria, Level 3

Knowledge without morals and character has no value. Knowledge and ethics with a good personality together increase a person’s reverence. They are two sides of the same coin. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.” Many believe in the role of the school and the teacher on the personality and behavior of the child and their influence on children after parents. Although there are those who believe that the job of the school and the teacher is limited to teaching and explaining scientific subjects to students only, such as mathematics and science, I believe in the importance of including classes for teaching ethics and developing the personality of students in schools.

Many parents are looking for their children to be distinguished and superior scientifically in school. In addition, the majority are certainly concerned with the behavior and personality of their children. I see the importance and role of teaching an ethical subject in schools and the interest in the child’s personality and development of it in schools which teach the student the difference between right and wrong and between darkness and light, and help them to create a strong and successful personality. We all know that children spend a lot of time in school, and school is the first place that children go out to without their parents. They are in a large and different society from their homes. So schools have a great role in shaping their personality and behavior after the parents.

There are some who argue that this teaching of morality and character development is a bad idea. First, there are some teachers who might believe that their job is limited to teaching the curriculum without looking at directing and developing students’ personalities. In reality, the teacher has a great and powerful role in influencing and changing the behavior and personality of students. It is also possible to radically change the life of the student, as happened with the teacher Erin Gruwell who transformed her students’ lives. She encouraged them to re-think rigid beliefs about themselves and others, reconsider their own daily decisions, and ultimately, re-chart their future. With Erin’s support, they chose to forego teenage pregnancy, drugs, and violence in order to become aspiring college students, published authors, and catalysts for change (Freedom Writers Foundation). We all know teachers are supportive and influential for every student. How were many of us affected by a positive or negative word from a teacher who encouraged them or had a negative influence or motivation to prove the opposite?

Some parents may refuse interference in raising their children. They might think raising and guiding children is the role of parents only, without outside interference. Certainly parents are the children’s primary support; nonetheless, the double work by the parents and the teacher shows remarkable results. Also, sometimes parents need help and advice from specialists to deal with children’s behavior. Having specialized teachers in schools who deal with the children on an ongoing basis would be an effective solution. For example, there are children who are outgoing at home but shy and introverted in school classes, so supporting and encouraging the teacher and placing them in situations that change their behavior are the best solution. Also, the teacher sees the way the children deal with their peers, and this is what the parents do not see. Here, the teacher can direct the children to the correct behavior to properly deal with others.

There are people who believe that morals are not taught, but are a practice and lifestyle that the student should follow from their surroundings. They believe that these things students learn from reality and not through indoctrination. However, the UAE has proven the effectiveness of including moral subject classes in the curriculum for all educational levels. The scientific lessons include an integrated curriculum in addition to practical application through activities, such as volunteering and cooperation with charitable institutions and the Red Crescent. Japan also preceded it in this experiment and decided to include the subject of ethics in schools, which proved successful.

A major argument for morality in the curriculum is that implementing teaching ethics and developing the personality of students in schools results in a good generation that respects values and principles. Moreover, it has great effects in direct form and in the long term. Interest in the personality of children makes them more confident and more successful in the future, and it helps them to make decisions. In addition, it makes them more creative and able to give

and deal with life. It also works to create future leaders. This builds the student’s personality that fosters resilience, persistence, perseverance, and a work ethic. It prepares students for the stage of adulthood and provides them with health, mental, and physical awareness. According to the Moral Education morality curriculum is centered around developing each student as honest, tolerant, resilient and persevering individuals, who reflect inwards on and build an individual sense of morality based on personal outlooks. The curriculum is designed to teach students to respect each other and celebrate differences. Students are encouraged to be aware of the positive impact they can have on other people and the world (Moral Education).

The playwright and poet Ahmad Shawqi said, “Nations are strong with their morals, if these morals are gone; they are gone.” Teaching morals and caring for the students’ personality has benefits for society as well. It prepares good individuals for society and enhances the capabilities of the children and enables them to become effective members of society. As stated by Moral Education this curriculum is focused on developing an individual who can thrive in different social situations and make a small change towards a big difference. Building upon the core competencies learned throughout the Character & Morality courses, students will dive deeper into community awareness and how they can become active members of their community, through community service subjects and learning about the importance and value of serving others. It imparts a sense of self-esteem, well-being and respect for familial and interpersonal relationships (Moral Education). Besides, teaching morals and caring for the students’ personality reduces or eliminates bad behaviors that harm society, such as violence, insulting others, theft, and others.

There can be no doubt that the inclusion of an ethical subject in schools has a positive and effective role on the student and his personality as well as having an impact on society. However, governments should have a role to play in promoting and implementing this program and providing resources for teachers training and preparing them to do this task. This program gives us hope for a successful generation to build the future of the homeland. In addition, it develops responsible, cultured, engaged adults ready for the wider globalized world and develops student awareness of the shared human experience and makes them messengers of the values they embody (Moral Education).

Works Cited A teacher of hope. Freedom Writers Foundation. 2020. Web. April 30, 2021. http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/about/ Character and Morality. Moral Education. 2017. Web. April 30, 2021. https://moraleducation.ae/ The Individual and the Community. Moral Education. 2017. Web. April 30, 2021 https://moraleducation.ae/ Objectives of Moral Education. Moral Education. 2017. Web. April 30, 2021 https://moraleducation.ae/

Two Types of Learning

Hanna Yendrys

Ukraine, Level 3

Thanks to advancements in technology, distance education has become more accessible than ever before: with most U.S. colleges and universities now offering a wide range of online graduate and undergraduate degree programs. To understand better online and in-person learning, you should try them both. So, since I tried both the first and the second, I have something to compare them. Each of these teaching methods has its pros and cons. I am going to talk about them from my own experience.

Do both have the same tests, homework, practice? Yes. You must do your homework, tests, practice, and labs. It takes you the same time to complete as online and in-person learning. You are obliged to perform all tasks regardless of the type of courses you have chosen. You will also use the same courses materials. For example, you will have the same books, resources, access to the library, and tutoring. When you are the online or in-person way of studying, you will have access to these materials, resources, and help when you need it.

How about choosing a teacher and study time in the class? You have a choice of the teacher you like in both options. Usually, each teacher provides opportunities for online and in-person learning. Also, you can choose the time of classes, which is convenient for you in both types. Despite some differences in these types of studies, the duration of semesters and lessons in both is the same. It means you will still be able to get all the information in the allotted time.

Nevertheless, despite the many factors that are common between these two types of learning, on the other hand, we also have differences between them. So, let’s see the others sides of them.

For the first difference, I want to look at your financial side. If you take traditional learning you will pay more tuition than online. Also, you must pay for your transportation to the college or university. If you take classes online, you may pay less money for them. You can stay at home or anywhere else and continue to get your degree when you are on learning online. Online studying is a good chance for people who have disabilities or can’t take classes in person. If you are in-person classes you will pay more money and waste more time to get there.

The next differences between online and in-person learning are the way to do practice and absents. If you choose to learn online, you will do just online work on your computer or apps. If you are on in-person studying, you will have online and papers assignments. Also, you will have more speaking practice and communication in traditional learning than in remote. One of the things is that you don’t have to miss class if you have to stay at home with kids, or you might have a reason to miss it if you are on online learning. You can be in class everywhere if you have internet. When you study in person, you won’t be able to stay at home or in traffic and be in the class. On the other hand, “You may feel less motivated to show up to an online class or make time to learn on your own, compared to attending an in-person meeting with your friends or community members.” (Fultz)

Finally, you can meet more people and build a good relationship with them if you are in-person learning. You can have more friends and more practice if you are in person than online. People meet each other best when they spend time together in class, on break, during lunch. If you choose the online method of learning you spend your recess by yourself, and can’t talk with anybody from your class. Usually, you put your camera and microphone off. Also, you can have a final party in the class with classmates at the end of the class on in-person learning, but on online learning, you will enjoy it from the computers screen.

Everyone can choose for themselves which type of learning suits them best. Despite your choice, don’t forget who you are and what your goal is in learning. Online learning and in-person learning are fine for people who want to learn something new and know where they go. Both methods are good experiences in studying especially when we have a lot of technologies and opportunities. So, let’s go to study and doesn’t matter which way you will choose.

Sources: 1. Fultz, J (2021, May 26). Distance/Online Learning vs. In Person Learning: Pros and Cons. Celebrate Edu. https://celebrateedu.org/resource/distance-online-learning-vs-in-person-learningpros-and-cons/ 2. Weighing the Pros and Cons of Online vs. In-Person Learning. National University https://www. nu.edu/resources/weighing-the-pros-and-cons-of-online-vs-in-person-learning/

Motherhood between Dream and Reality Banan Shikh

Syria, Level 3

Motherhood is a great, wonderful feeling, and many women always strive to try this feeling and have children. Children are a piece of the soul and a great blessing in being. Having children gives a different meaning to life. In addition to that, childbirth is due to many changes in the lives of the parents, especially the mother. These changes include psychological and physical changes, changes in relationships and social life, as well as changes in priorities; let’s see what life will be like in these aspects before and after having children.

There are undoubtedly psychological and physical differences that women experience after having a baby. We do not say that women’s lives before childbearing is free from psychological or physical problems, but the naturalness of these problems varies. On the other hand, women after childbirth are exposed to psychological pressure and a sense of double responsibility and anxiety for taking care of a new child and taking care of their affairs. Besides, there are other problems, like changing hormones, lack of sleep and rest, and their body shape changes which may affect their psychologically and their self-confidence at times. For example, the size of the chest changes due to the production of milk, and the shape of the abdomen changes due to the expansion of the skin with the enlargement of the abdomen during pregnancy as the weight increases. As a result of all or some of these things, sometimes they suffer from depression.

Social life and relationships differ for women before and after childbearing in three points. First, women before childbearing depend on choosing friends that suit them and their personality. Also, women are able to set their appointments according to their own schedule without restrictions or excuses most of the time. Third, they can also go to different places without restrictions, such as crowded places and loud parties. In comparison, mothers prefer to form relationships and

spend time with people who share the same interests and understand the nature of their life, which makes them choose to form relationships with mothers like they are. Secondly, mothers cannot make their own appointments until after looking at their children’s appointments, such as according to the children’s sleep date, the school date, the doctor’s appointment, or the time to go to music lessons. Third, mothers always plan to go to places suitable for the presence of children, such as parks or festivals that suit their ages.

It is certain that the priorities of women can change as well, so women’s priorities differ before and after childbearing. Women before becoming a mom are thinking about their own goals and planning their own ideas and plans. Also, their priorities are to make themselves happy, to implement their plans, and to look at their requirements. In contrast, mothers think about their children and plan for them a bright future and try to make their lives better. Mothers are at the end of the list and the last thing they think about themselves. For example, when they go to the market, they might think of all the things that their children need or want and forget to buy something for themselves.

To wrap it all up, with all these changes that have been mentioned and some difficult times that mothers go through, motherhood leaves a miraculous, indescribable feeling. The beauty of this feeling makes you turn a blind eye to these hardships. Therefore, women should take care of their mental and physical health and receive care from their husbands, families, and friends. That will help them to be able to take care of their little one. They should also exercise and follow a diet to help their body return to being as it was. Also, there is nothing wrong with some selfishness to make time for themselves to go out with friends or to do something they like. Giving birth to a new life is a great thing that is worth the sacrifice, but women must not forget themselves.

Travel

The Best Place for Vacation

Yibing Xu

China, Level 1

I think that Yellowstone National Park is the best place to visit for vacation. First, Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous tourist attractions in America. Many people from all over world go to there every year, and it is the place my dream about. In addition, Yellowstone National Park has many beautiful attractive spots. For example, there are many geothermal landscapes, canyons, and waterfalls in the park. There are also many animals in the park forest. Finally, Yellowstone National Park is suitable for a family to play for one week. That is, you can go in the park everyday of the week if you buy a ticket once. That is a happy thing to enjoy the gorgeous scenery with your family. As you can see, if you will go to visit for vacation, Yellowstone National Park is the best choice.

Traveling All America

Jianmin Zhang

China, Level 1

I think my dream is to travel all America. Do you know why? First, America has many beautiful places such as Yellowstone National Park. I like to visit it. This is my dream. Second, America has many interesting histories. For example, there are the famous American Civil War and Black civil rights Movement. I like to learn the histories. I want to know American histories through my traveling. Finally, America has much culture. Different from the integrity of eastern culture, western culture emphasizes individuality. I want to learn vary kinds of American culture

by traveling everywhere. In conclusion, I want to travel all through America and deeply know America. That is my dream.

The Trip That Changed My Life

Maryclair Rida

Syria, Level 2

The trip was one of the most difficult trips of my life for many reasons. This is the longest journey that changed my life. The journey started from my mother country, Syria, to end in the United States of America in 2018. I had to stop for three to four hours at three different airports. The trip was one of the most difficult trips of my life for many reasons. First, the trip was tiring because of the many hours, which ranged from 32 to 35 hours, carrying four heavy bags and moving them from one place to another quickly, and not being able to sleep. Second, I had anxiety and a lot of thinking about what would happen after my arrival in the United States of America because this trip was a complete transition from my home country to another place, and I had to think carefully about what difficulties I would face in the first period of my move. Finally, I had many volatile emotions such as, happiness because I went to a better place, but at the same time I felt very sad because of the loss of many members of my family and friends. This long journey was difficult and has moved my life to a better place, but nothing is perfect and even sadness can be found in a state of bliss.

What Is Your Favorite Place?

Elena Simona Winze

Romania, Level 3

To travel? What does “travel” mean? To travel means to move from one part to another. To travel means a route, a distance between two places (Cambridge Dictionary). I think everyone, any person loves to do this. My husband and I love to travel. We have been in so many countries, but only one has conquered our souls. This country is Greece. I can say that it is my favorite place in the world. Greece is amazing, beautiful, with an “abundance of resources”, and worth visiting at least once for so many reasons (Nations Online).

Why did I choose Greece as my favorite place? It is a good question because I am going to tell you a little story about my first visit in that country. In September 2018 was my husband and I’s first vacation together, in Greece, and I think because of that I have chosen this country as my favorite place. Until then, we had never been alone on a vacation. In every summer, we used to go with our friends on vacation. Before that, we talked about Greece, and added it to our wish list.

One day, I was home, cooking something for lunch, and my husband just came home and told me that he looked for everything that was necessary for our trip to Greece, and we are going to leave tomorrow. I didn’t expect that, and I was very surprised and speechless. I remember that was on Friday, and on Sunday we went to Greece. For our first trip we chose to go in Thasos, one of the islands of Greece. Also, we chose to go with our car; however, it was only about ten or twelve hours of driving until we were there. We spent a whole week there, and I never wanted to come back home.

In Greece, I found a place like home, where you can meet kind people who live in small villages. Greeks are welcoming people with a big culture and many traditions. Every night we were looking on google maps for different beaches because we wanted to explore all the island. I have never seen a beach with such clear water like in Greece. Here, I ate a lot, where I tried the best sea foods ever because they are famous for their traditional foods. A good thing was that in this country we spent less money than if we had chosen to go on vacation in Romania. In this last summer we returned to this beautiful country. First, I wanted to go back in Thasos too, but my husband succeed in convincing me to choose another island. We were in Khalkidhiki. It was beautiful too, but Thasos will remain my first love.

In conclusion, I will visit Greece whenever I have the opportunity because it is worth returning to such a beautiful place. Also, I could add that I encourage everyone to visit this country at least once because I am sure that it will conquer their soul, like it did mine. I could write a lot of good things about this place because definitely I am in love with this country. Greece, you are my favorite place in the world!

Relationships

My Best Friend

Nataly Panta

Peru, Level 1

My best friend is the kindest person of the world. We spend a lot time together every week. He is married, and his wife’s name is Magda. He has a son. His son’s name is Liam. My best friend’s name is Rey Hernan. We know each other 5 years ago here in the United States. I remember when I was looking for a job in a restaurant like a server. He was the manager there. I knew it! from the first moment I met him, I knew that were going to be very good friends. We usually help each other when we are in troubles ,and also to take care our kids when we have to work, and for any necessity. We always have a lot of fun when we meet in our days off with our families. As you can see, he is a great person, and he has a beautiful family. This is why I chose him like my best friend.

My Little Cousin

Fabjola Smajlaj

Albania, Level 1

My little cousin is special to me. My little cousin is Melsi. He is ten years old, and is in fourth grade in school. He has brown eyes and brown hair. Melsi calls me sister. I love him so much and he loves me too. He is a very smart child. He has only one year in the U.S.A. and understands English very well. Teachers says that he is a good student at school. When he speaks we all laugh at his answers. He favorites sport is football, and we spend almost two hours for day to play outside with the ball. Last night he told me a little secrete. He said I like a girl and she is the most beautiful girl I have ever seen. Melsi is passionate about animals, but dogs are his favorites. He knows almost all the types of dogs. Melsi say I want a dog to sleep with and to take outside for a walk. His phone is full of pictures about dogs. He plays a lot on the phone and makes video on Tik-Tok. Sometimes we go outside to running, play and buy things together. Melsi says sister do not spend a lot of money. He is very funny for his age. Melsi is also my friend and he is so important to me.

Homeless words

I guess nobody has ears to hear my sound Not alive, not dead, nor bland

I guess the world is getting unfeeling As soil as a stone as sand

I guess my lips are moving but mute I know it is low, it is slow but cute

I guess my words are getting tired out of my mouth Because it is love, it is life nobody cares about

I guess my sound is shining same as the sun That is why no one dares to see for or no one can

Mohammad Wasim Safi

Afghanistan, Level 2

I guess my words are homeless, it is my luck It goes alone, flies alone, comes alone back

Classmates in the Past

Milian Prifti

Albania, Level 2

Several of my memories come from being a child in elementary school and from some of my first friends I have ever had. When I was in elementary school, we were eight classmates from first grade to fourth grade. We were a class of seven girls and one boy, me. I was very shy. Sometimes my teacher would make fun of me and call me a rooster in a pen with chickens. I was raised in a small village. Our