Contents Campus and in the Community

Diversity The Intensive English Program Newsletter Volume 8, No. 2, Fall 2009

Editor's Note: The Intensive English (ESOL) Program at Lone Star College - Kingwood was founded in August 2001 to help immigrant and international students living in the community to learn and improve their English. One of the goals of the ESOL Program is to promote intercultural understanding and diversity on Contents campus and in the community. Diversity: The ESOL Student Newsletter plays an important role towards this goal. This issue of the Diversity has several themes: What I Like Most about My Country, Why I N eed to Improve My English, What I Like Most about the U.S., An Interesting or Funny Experience in What I Like Most the U.S., What Surprises Me Most about the U.S., Who is My Hero, This I Believe, and What Inspires About My Country Me. I hope you will enjoy reading these great stories...... 1 If you have any comments about the newsletter, please e-mail Anne Amis at [email protected]. Why I Need to Improve My English What I Like Most about My Country ...... 4 Patricio Bedon, Ecuador, Writing–High Beginning “With love today I want to sing, Yes sir, to my beautiful Ecuador and say that wherever I go, I am What I Like Most Ecuadorian.” These three lines are part of a song that we Ecuadorians sing with pride and with a strong About the U.S. voice to remember fondly our little piece of land. Ecuador is known around the world, despite the ...... 6 fact that it is a small country, no bigger than Colorado. However, with human warmth it welcomes the people of the world. We are located in South America between Peru and Colombia. We share the An Interesting or Funny same culture, the same race and even the same blue ocean that bathes our beaches. It is the tall peaks Experience in the U.S. and mountains that appear to interact with the stars at night and the lakes adorned with thick mist ...... 13 that make our land special. Atahualpa, the Great Inca King said, “Tahuantinsuyo, Llacta Cuna, Pacha Mama,” or “Tahuantinsuoy, My Cradle, My Mother Land.” What Surprises Me Alvaro Leal, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning Most about the U.S. Hello! My name is Alvaro, and I am from Mexico. What I really like about my country are the rooster ...... 15 fights. In a rooster fight, two roosters fight with knives, and fight till death. The one that stays alive wins the fight and attends the “Palenque,” a big after-party. I like parties. The best time to party in Who is My Hero Mexico is in September and December. September is the Patriot month, and every night there are ...... 17 fireworks, people drink all night and are very happy. December is a party month too, but this time we celebrate Christmas and the New Year. Besides parties, what I like the most about my country are the This I Believe soccer games on the weekends, when people join each other to watch their favorite team. Oh, I almost ...... 18 forgot that Mexico is not expensive, and for all these reasons I like my country. Maria Teresa Adams, Venezuela, Writing–High Beginning What Inspires Me I like everything about my country, but I think the landscapes are the most beautiful in Venezuela. The ...... 19 beaches are the best in the world, and my favorite beaches are Morrocoy National Park, Sombrero Is- land, Mayorquina, Paicla, Los Juanes and many other beautiful ones. One of these beaches is all I need ESOL Schedule on a weekend. The Venezuelan plains are very beautiful, too, and they are homes to many animals and Spring 2009 many exotic flowers and birds. The Andes has snow-covered mountains, and its climate is very pleasant...... 23 The Great Savannah is said to be the world’s oldest land, and its Angel Falls (Salto Angel, or Churum Meru) is very amazing. What matters the most about my country is that my family lives there, in the beautiful city of Barquisimeto. My city is musical; everyone knows how to play an instrument or how to sing. Also, I like Venezuelan food, such as arepas, empanadas, tostones, pabellones and Christmas food, like hallacas and ham bread (pan de jamon). And of course, I like the people that work to make Venezuela a better country day by day.

For more information, call 281-312-1578 or go to Kingwood.LoneStar.edu Diversity: The Intensive English Program Newsletter is published once a semester. What I Like Most about My Country

Angela Gonzalez, Colombia, Writing–High Beginning Julio C. Gonzalez, Cuba, Writing–High Beginning A tropical country of incredible diversity and charm, situated in My name is Julio C. Gonzalez. I was born in Cuba, in a town the northwest corner of South America, Colombia is a country named Varadero. What I like most about my country are the with great history, culture and tradition. It is the only country in beautiful beaches. Many tourists visit Varadero because of its the region with coasts on both the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean. beautiful beaches. The water is blue and green. The sand is white In most of the country, there are two rainy seasons – from April to and very clean. I used to spend many hours on the beach. My June and from August to November – and two dry seasons. Co- house was only four blocks away. My very first job was that of a lombia enjoys constant luminosity throughout the year, with an life guard. I met a lot of people from different countries. I was equal duration of daylight and night time hours. Colombia is the amazed at how many people loved to visit Cuba. Some other second most diverse country on the planet. Protected ecosystems, things I love about my country are the food and the music. We where scientific research or the simple delight of contemplating dance to salsa and merengue all night. I often dream about my and experiencing are possible, make our country an exceptional country. I am planning to take a vacation to Cuba next summer. nature destination. It is a country with incredible biodiversity, I cannot wait to see my family and friends whom I have not seen which is represented in 53 protected areas. With about 1876 in years. species, equivalent to 20% of the word total, Colombia is the number one country in bird diversity in the world; it is a paradise Hilda Gonzalez, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning for birdwatchers with innumerable options. Also, my country has My city, Puebla de Los Angeles, is beautiful and interesting. It was some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. founded on April 16, 1531, by Spanish conquerors. For us, May 5 is a day for big celebration. A lot of people think it is the Day The people of Colombia are very intelligent, hard-working, cheer- of Independence, but it is not. May 5 is the day of a battle that ful and hospitable. We have beautiful music (Cumbia, Vallenato), happened in Puebla. dances, and delicious gastronomy. Puebla has a beautiful landscape. It is known as the Valley of Cuetlaxcoapan. Puebla is surrounded by two volcanoes and one mountain. The climate is such that you can enjoy all year round, and the air is very fresh. If you ever get a chance, I would recom- mend that you take a trip over there and enjoy what Puebla has to offer. Maria Tudor, Romania, Writing–High Beginning I love my country, Romania. My country has big cities. I lived in Bucharest, the capital city of Romania. The people in my country are friendly. They are hardworking and hospitable. They also like to travel. My country has beautiful places with mountains, forests, hills, beaches and plains. In the summer, people go to the Black Sea for vacation. We celebrate Easter, Christmas and New Year’s Eve. People are happy when they celebrate their traditions. We prepare delicious foods like cookies, sausages, cabbage rolls, bacon and soups. The people of my country are intelligent. Our history is interesting, and many people know about the monasteries of Olga Caldas, Colombia, Writing–High Beginning Moldavia, the Bran castle, or Dracula’s castle. I love my country I like Colombia because the people are very friendly there, and and my people. I am proud that I am Romanian. the families are close to each other. I love Colombian music, as it Nilsa Kleiber, Panama, Writing–High Beginning is one of the most beautiful expressions of my culture. We have a great variety of music genres, songs and dances. I love Colombian I am from Panama. It is a beautiful country. It is also a small food because it is unique and healthy. We enjoy it at parties, which country with only nine provinces. The people in Panama are nice I like very much for the people are happy there. Colombia is a and friendly. What I like most about Panama are the beaches. great place for vacation; it has a variety of climates, the beaches are Panama has wonderful, beautiful and nice beaches. The water is pretty, and it has many holidays in the year. Also, I like Colombi- clear and blue. The sand is white. People spend their weekends an literature because it portrays Spanish culture. I am very proud on the beach, and they have a good time there. When I go to of our Nobel Prize winner author, Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Panama, I always go to the beach because I love it. I like to sit on the beach and put sand on my body and play with the sand by Between Peru and Bolivia making sandcastles. I like spending my time on the beach. I love Romulo Lopez, Peru, Writing–High Beginning the beach. I lived half of my life in Lima, Peru, and the other half in Bolivia, Santa Cruz De La Sierra to be exact. In Peru, I had my personal Minh Nguyen, Vietnam, Writing–High Beginning and professional formation. Then, I went to Bolivia to look for a I was born and raised in Vietnam. I like the food and beer of my job for some months, but as Santa Cruz is a growing city, I stayed country. I also like Vietnam because it has many beautiful places. there for 17 years. That is where I found my wife, the mom of my I visited many famous places in my country. I usually go out on two beautiful children. I would like to go back to Peru to visit my the weekend in Vietnam. I like to watch Vietnamese movies, and family, for my memories, and I would love to return to Bolivia, as I often go fishing there too. What I like the most about my coun- it is also part of my life. try is that my family and friends live there. I like to spend time with them. I like it in Vietnam. I love my country. Page 2 What I Like Most about My Country

Sergio Ruiz, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning Maria A. Silva, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning Hello! My name is Sergio, and I am from Guerrero, Mexico. I Mexico is a great country. I love the beaches, tourist trips, disco like Guerrero because it has a great culture and a great climate. parties, the people and the food. What I like the most about Guerrero is not very cold or hot. Its culture is filled with different Mexico are its traditions. My favorite traditions are Christmas and celebrations, customs and flavors. I like Guerrero for its food, as it the Day of the Virgin Mary. My favorite part of Christmas is the is delicious and locally grown fruits are tasty, too. The fruits that “posadas.” I love it how all of my family and friends get together, are produced in Guerrero are watermelon, bananas, plums, avoca- and we share the fantastic food we make for that special night. dos, oranges, tangerines and cantaloupe. Guerrero is a beautiful My favorite food shared that night is “tamales.” I love the tradition place, and I would like to go back to enjoy its beauty again. of the Day of the Virgin Mary, too. I love it when my family and friends get together at the church. All these are the reasons why I Graciela Mendoza, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning love my country, but most importantly, I love Mexico because my Hi, my name is Graciela, and I was born in Monterrey, Nuevo family lives there. I love to visit them during my vacation. Leon (NL), Mexico. The only thing I like about my country is the food. The most traditional dishes from Monterrey are cabrito Audelia Yoc, Guatemala, Writing–High Beginning (cooked goat kid), semita (bread without any leavening) and ca- People in Guatemala are very friendly. We love parties and we pirotada (a mix of cooked bread, cheese, raisins, peanuts and crys- have good traditional food. We like everyone to come and share tallized sugarcane juice). Some other local dishes are machacado with us the special time of Christmas. We make tamales and hot con huevo or carne asada, what Monterrey families traditionally chocolate because everyone likes to eat tamales and drink hot eat on the weekend. These dishes are usually served with grilled chocolate in Guatemala. My country has a lot of beautiful things, onions, baked potatoes and sausages. Traditional desserts like glo- for example, the weather is beautiful. A lot of people go on vaca- rias and obleas are made from goat milk, and both are traditional tion to Guatemala because they like not only its culture, but its sweets from Monterrey, NL. climate, too. We do not need air conditioning; any day you can take a walk or take a nap outside, and you can feel the fresh wind. Petra Castrejon, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning We have more than seven months of spring, and that is why we In Mexico, we celebrate las posadas, the eve of the nativity of call Guatemala the country of spring, “El país de la primavera”. Jesus, as a secular winter holiday. Christmas in Mexico is a time for special festive foods. The traditional dishes for this celebration are fried dough, bunuelos, which is a desert with powdered sugar and cinnamon, and tamale, which is corn meal dough, or “masa,” filled with pork and red pepper. Also, in Mexico, there are beautiful beaches like Cancun, Acapulco and Mazatlan. Our ancestors the Mayas were intelligent people who created their own calendar and were good astrologists. I find the ancient culture of the Mayas amazing. Antonio Cuevas, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning In my country, Mexico, there are many things to appreciate. I like its culture. I like reading about pyramids and the way they were connected to the world. Each spring, a lot of people go to see the equinox by the city of Chichen Itza, and they say that they feel very comforted in the center of the pyramid, in the so called “High Saloon”. Each step of the pyramid’s staircase represents a day of the year, and that is why there are 365 steps. On the top of the staircase, the Mayans sacrificed their princess to their god. Before their god died, he told them that he would come back, so the people were waiting for him to reappear in a new reincarnated form. When the Spanish people arrived, the Mayans though that Hernan Cortes was their god, Kukulkan, and they kneeled down to him. The Mayans also made their own calendar that was exact. Everyone is waiting for something great to happen when the calendar ends December 22, 2012. Aliona Preutesa, Ukraine, Writing–High Beginning I am from Ukraine. Ukraine is the country where I was born. I love this country for its nature and its people. In my country, people prefer to buy fresh food. They eat meat, fish, meat dumplings, sausage, soup and pasta. I like pasta. My husband and my sons like to eat it, too. We have very good pasta in Ukraine. I could eat pasta every day because I like it so much. I can cook pasta too. Pasta is my favorite food. People in Ukraine eat a lot of vegetables and fresh fruit as well. Some people grow their own produce. I love the food from my country, but I also like to try new dishes and desserts from other cuisines. Page 3 Why I Need to Improve My English

Maria Garcia, Mexico, ESOL Reading–Intermediate English is Needed in My Life I need to improve my English because here in the U.S. the na- Patricia Garza, Mexico, tive language is English. English is the power to open doors to Oral Communication–High Beginning opportunities. The U.S. is one nation where a lot people come My name is Patricia Garza. I am 42 years old, married and have from different countries all over the world. A lot of them are three children. I have one boy and two girls. I have lived in good people, and if you communicate with them, you can have a Humble, Texas for eight months. My husband’s name is Rigo- partnership with people from different cultures. It doesn’t matter berto. I have three brothers and one sister. Most of my family lives when you want to start to learn. It is a good idea for you and for in Texas. My father lives in Mexico and my mother lives with me. your family to learn English. The most important thing is that, if This is a little bit about my life. I want to learn English to help my you speak English, you have the opportunity to get better jobs and children with their homework. I want a better job and I want to earn more money. This is the reason I need to improve my English learn English because I like this language. I want to understand and be able to enjoy life here in the U.S. people that do not know my language. Balbina Monrroy, Mexico, ESOL Reading–Intermediate Evelyn S. Talley, Colombia, I need to improve my English because now I live in this coun- Oral Communication–High Beginning try and need to communicate with people who are around me. I want to improve in reading and writing, because I want to com- For example, some of my neighbors were born here, but others municate better using those strategies. I want to get a Masters De- are from other countries with different languages and I can only gree. Improving my English can help me write, read, and complete relate to them in English. Also, when I go shopping in different assignments and tests. It is very important in this country to know stores and I’m looking for something special, I must ask in English English, because you can find better jobs, you can communicate where that section is or where else you can find it. Finally, in my with others, find directions, and to help people that just came to opinion, if I improve my English, I will have more opportuni- this country. I want to improve my English, because I want to re- ties to have better jobs, and, as a consequence, I will have a better duce my accent, so I can advance in my career. I want to improve lifestyle. my English to feel more confident conversing during every day Najwa Abdallah, Lebanon, ESOL Reading–Intermediate situations. I want to improve my English, because I love to learn. English is an important international language which people I want to be proficient in English first, so I can dedicate time to around the word use for business and other things in life. When learn other languages. Learning English can also improve my con- I came to the U.S.A, I felt the importance of this language. I versation skills to help me organize my thoughts and converse in a didn’t speak very good English, so I needed to do something to more natural way. I want to improve my English to help my stu- improve my English. I have started to take courses to learn the dents to be proficient in English and improve their English skills. I language because I cannot communicate with other people, and want to improve my English skills to be an English teacher. And I I can’t find a good job. For example, I had a bachelor’s degree in want to improve English to be a citizen, and be more proactive in History from my country, but I couldn’t use it here because of my community. my limited English. If I improve my English, I can take more English for Communication courses or receive another certificate such as a teacher’s certificate Maria Aguirre, Mexico, or another degree so that I can teach and I can find a better job. In Oral Communication–High Beginning addition, when people move from their country, they have to learn I need to understand American people. I would like to speak the new country’s language because they need to use it every day, English with my son. I want to have a good conversation. I wish everywhere they go and in everything they need to do. Without to have American friends. I want to do business in the United language, I can’t start my new life. For this reason, I need to im- States. I would like to help my son with his homework. I want to prove my English so I can live a better life, find a good job, com- conference in English. Because I live in Kingwood, I like music in municate better with the friendly American people, and so that I English. can feel more confident myself when I speak in English. Why English is Important Hernandez Lucia, Mexico, Karla de la Torre, Mexico, Oral Communication–High Beginning Oral Communication–High Beginning English is necessary, because I can talk with people from other countries. It is an international language. I take care of two Hi! My name is Karla de la Torre. I am from Mante, Tamaulipas, children, but I want another job because I want to increase my Mexico. I have lived here for 3 years. I live with my parents, salary. I like listening to English music, but I can’t understand the two brothers, and my baby. I work in a Mexican restaurant. I songs. I like going to the movies, but I don’t go often because I am a waitress and cashier. I would like to learn English because don’t understand all movies. In my house, I like watching TV but it is necessary for my life and work. I would like to have a good I don’t understand and I feel bad. I want to learn English because conversation with people. I am interested in learning more it is a goal for me. In Mexico, I can have a good job. Sometimes I because it is an international language. I want to study at the go eat out, but I don’t understand some questions. I want to speak University of Texas. I want to work with kids. I would like to have English very well because people do not understand me. I want to my own business. I would like to help my child when she has learn English, because I live in the U.S. homework. After I learn English, I want learn other languages. I want to understand when people are speaking and I want to teach it to my parents.

Page 4 Why I Need to Improve My English

Samdy Tous, Cambodia, Oral Communication–High Beginning My name is Samdy Tous. I am from Cambodia. It is my home- land. I came to live in the USA one year ago, but I can’t speak English very well. The question that I should ask myself, “How do I live in an English speaking country without English?” Go- ing to college is another goal. It is the other reason why I need to improve my English. Speaking and listening can improve at home with television and some people outside. But in writing, I can’t learn by myself. So, I must go to school. English is also an international language. Electronic machines such as computers, cars, telephones, etc. pretty much use English. To apply, most jobs require me to know English fluently. English in My Life Hung Le, Viet Nam, Oral Communication–High Beginning My name is Hung Le and I am fifty years old. I am married and have two children. I am living in an apartment. I get up early at 3:30 am to go to work at 4:00 am. I come back at 6:00 pm. I am very busy, but I like learning English because I live in America. I do not understand well because I am deaf. I may be a bad student, but I will try very much. I hope that I will understand a little more with your help. English for My Family Minh Nguyen, Viet Nam, Oral Communication–High Beginning I usually spend time with my family on the weekend. I like to relax and also clean my house. Sometimes we go to parties. I cook and prepare meals for the week. I like to visit my relatives during the weekend. I watch movies, sports, and cooking shows on TV. I call different people I know. I like to go fishing with my son on the weekend, too. Back to School Kimvan thi Nguyen, Viet Nam, Oral Communication–High Beginning This is the first time I go to school again. I go with my husband. Thirty five years have passed and I am in class again. I want to study English well, because English will help me get a good job. If I don’t understand English, I can’t understand everything my boss Beatriz Arceo, Mexico, tells me like, “You do this!” and “You do that!” I can do better if Oral Communication–High Beginning you help me when I go to class. I need to improve my English for many reasons. First, now I live here in the United States and I need to understand Americans and English in the USA speak with them. Second, my husband is American and fortu- Maria Teresa Zambrano, Venezuela, nately he speaks Spanish very well, but his family does not speak Oral Communication–High Beginning Spanish. I need to improve my English to speak with them. Third, I want to write, read and speak English because I live in Houston, my pronunciation is not good, so I want to improve my pronun- Texas, United States. I want to help my children and I want to ciation. Fourth, I need to improve my grammar, because some- speak another language. I want to manage a business and want to times I do not how to make a statement. I do not feel confident understand English. I like English musicians. This is a great need when I have to speak in English, because my pronunciation is bad for me. I want to watch TV and understand. I want to learn more and my grammar is not good. Fifth, I need to improve listening everyday and to be a bilingual woman. in English, because most often I do not understand movies. When people speak English, I feel uncomfortable. Sixth, I want to read any book in English. Seventh, sometimes I listen to music in Eng- lish and I would like to understand the songs. Eight, I would like take a cooking course in English. Ninth, I want to speak English with my husband, not only Spanish. Tenth, it is a goal that I want to achieve.

Page 5 What I Like Most About the U.S.

Citlali Hernandez, Mexico, Esperanza Flores, Mexico, Oral Communication–Intermediate Oral Communication–Intermediate I am from Veracruz, Mexico. What I like most the U.S. are the op- First of all, America is a great country. America has many in- portunities that it gives to all the people who want to make their teresting places and interesting cities. There are many places to lives better every day. It gives me a chance to realize my dreams. It go on vacation, such as New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, or is not easy, but it is not impossible, either. I like the US because Miami. It also has beautiful mountains, rivers, oceans, deserts, and it gives to us a lot of opportunities to do whatever we want. I forests. You can meet people from around the world of all cultures. have been here for five years. First, I was living with my mom and There are many opportunities for everybody. Everyone wants to sisters in Tennessee, and now I am here studying. I would like to come to America for a better life. America is a country that is kind work on a college degree in this country, but first I have to learn and friendly. Also, it is rich and powerful. America has the best English. My dream is to become a dentist, and I am working on hospitals and doctors in the world. Americans believe that every- weekends and studying during the week to achieve my goal. I one is created equal and everyone deserves an education. America also like the technology in the U.S. I think it is one of best in the has everything that you can find in other countries. This is what world. And finally, I like the cultural diversity in the United States. I like about America. Sabrina Amlinger, Germany, William Navarrete, Nicaragua, Writing–Intermediate Oral Communication–Intermediate America is a beautiful country with many things that make it The thing I mostly like about the U.S. is the people. They are very wonderful. One thing I like are the people. Everybody is respect- friendly and open. They smile at you and start small talk even if ful of each other, and I like that everybody is so friendly. Another they don’t know you. It seems that they are genuinely interested thing that I like in the city are the malls and all of the sales that in other people. Another thing I like about the U.S. are the stores they have in stores. For example, if you buy a t-shirt you can get and supermarkets. They are so big and you can get almost every- the other one for half price. Something else that I like are the thing. Also, the store hours are convenient. You do not need to restaurants. You can eat food from different countries, and many worry if it is late and if you forget to buy something. You can do are open 24 hours. The one thing that I like the most here is that so because most supermarkets are open 24 hours every day. I also you can meet people from all over the world, which is something really enjoy the independence of driving by car everywhere. You that you can only do here in the United States. You can discover are not bound to take a bus or a train. You don’t have to worry different cultures. These are some things I like about the United about any inconvenient schedule or missing the transport. You can States. go everywhere, whenever you want. Nanchaporn (Pure) Sonriew, Thailand, Erica Basuto, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate Oral Communication–Intermediate There are many things I like in America. My first impression in One of the things I like the most about U.S is that they have a the U.S. was the people. I remember the first time I arrived here good social system to follow. They also have a fair judicial system in San Francisco. I had a hard time communicating in English. I that considers a person innocent of a crime until he or she is was so scared because I didn’t know anyone. I was so lucky that proven guilty. This system is better than other countries. Defen- anytime I asked American people for help, they answered my dants are humanely treated and their civil rights observed. They questions politely and patiently. They were very supportive. They even have private prisons where the prisoners have the opportunity told me not to be afraid of speaking English. Another thing I to get jobs after they are released. Private prisons are economically like here are the freeways. They are huge. It is easy to drive on beneficial to government and the private sector. In my country, we the freeway. The last thing that I like in this country is the free don’t have anything like that. Although many countries may deny high-speed internet. There are many places I can surf the web it, they look up to this country. The lifestyle here in the U.S. is such as the library, an internet café or even some restaurants. In 30 years more advanced than some other countries like in South my country, you have to pay to use the internet. I am glad that I America, for example. It is not easy to have control over more came to the U.S. I have learned a lot of things. It has been a good than 20 big cities in the same country, with millions of habitants experience for me to come to study in the U.S. in each; the U.S. has achieved it. Living in the most powerful My Dream country in the world makes me feel good, and that is what I like the most about this country. Soner Dalyan, Turkey, Writing–Intermediate It was my dream to see the United States. When I came to Texas, Katja Himborg, Germany, Oral Communication I smelled different air here. From everywhere in the world people I like mostly its great hospitality. People are very friendly and come to the U.S. to live. They live together, and it does not matter helpful. They show an interest in your life and background. I’m what religion they have or where they are from. Here in the U.S. impressed by the variety of its natural beauty. I hope that the everyone is equal and everyone is free. Everybody respects each U.S will do everything to conserve the natural environment. Life other. There are differences in culture, food, buildings, and many here is really convenient. There are endless shopping possibilities, other things. To come and live in the U.S. was my dream. When where you can buy everything around the clock. I’m amazed by I was a boy, I always watched American movies. I saw big cities its big highway system and the big cars. But don’t forget that they and shiny cars. I dreamed of coming here, and my dream came also need a lot of fuel. It’s wonderful that people from so many true. I did not feel like a stranger when I arrived in the U.S. different nations live here peacefully together. And last, I admire because I knew how to connect with people even if I did not speak the people here for their positive attitude towards life and for their or write or read very well in English. After I learned English and strong belief in the country. the American style, I felt more comfortable, and I am starting to establish my dream here. Page 6 What I Like Most About the U.S.

Wei Ning (James) Zhang, China, Writing–Intermediate opportunities for work. Everyone can have success in his life. Even though I have just been in the USA for 9 months, I feel the Also the skyscrapers of different cities in this country, as in Chi- USA is a good place to live. The first thing you notice when you cago, New York, Washington and Houston, are truly impressive. arrive in this country is friendliness. When I just got out of the In the United States we have excellent hospitals. The United States plane, I felt warm. Everybody took care of us. They always smiled government helps people with low income. Here people have at us, and it made us feel that we were home. When I arrived houses with big yards and beautiful gardens. The United States is here, I could not speak English very well. I could not say some- a country with some pollution, but it is much cleaner than many thing I wanted to say, but people were very patient. They never got other countries. Abundant malls, stores, restaurants and parks mad with us. They showed me the way and said it several times adorn every city. Additionally, living in this wonderful country for me. If I still could not get it, they would take me there. They is a great blessing. For me, the United States is one of the best are so nice. In China this doesn’t happen. Everybody is on their countries in the world to live in. way. So in my mind the best thing about living in the USA is the people. They are so kind. I love them. Yuankan (Cody) Zhang, China, Writing–Intermediate New York is a good place to live. New York has beautiful scen- I like the United States ery and fashionable shopping areas. There are many magnificent Deysi Velasquez, El Salvador, Writing–Intermediate buildings. It’s a wonderful place! New York is the largest city in the I like the United States because it is a free country with liberty. United States, so there are many businessmen doing business in I feel secure here. Thank God I have people and things that I New York, and there are a lot of tourists in New York. One reason never had in my country. This is a blessed country with many I like New York is that you can buy a variety of brand-name items opportunities. I have learned many things here. I learned to drive you want. Second, in New York you can eat food from around the eighteen-wheeler trucks, and I am learning to write English. In world. It’s very cool. The most important reason is that they have conclusion I feel fortunate living in this beautiful country. God a big Chinatown in New York. In Chinatown you can eat a lot bless the United States of America. of delicious Chinese food. We all know that Chinese food is very famous in the world. And we can meet a lot of Chinese friends in When I Came to America Chinatown. For these reasons I like living in the United States. Gloria Wilson, Peru, Writing–Intermediate When I came to America the first time, I could not believe all the Susanne Voges, Germany,Writing–Intermediate new cars on the roads. In my country, all the cars are small and When I came to the U.S. two years ago, everything was new for dirty. But in the U.S., everybody has a bright and shiny car. I see me. Nothing was as usual. But I got used to the good weather them washing them in their driveways when it is sunny outside. very fast. After living most of my life in rainy, cloudy and cold But busy or lazy people take them to a carwash. Some people in Germany, I enjoy the weather here in Texas. For example, I like to the U.S.A think more about their cars than anything else. They have barbeques. In Germany we can only do that in summer. Here have car shows to show off their cars. They try to impress people we can barbeque all year long. I don’t have to remind my kids to with their cars. It’s almost as if they think they are part of the car. put on their warm clothes when they go outside. The water in They are all pretty and clean, but they are sad because they have a our pool is always warm and we never freeze. It is so wonderful to big car payment every month. observe the hummingbirds while I relax in the hammock. I really What I Like about the United States enjoy my life here in Texas, but I also look forward to going back to Germany next summer. If I just could take the weather with Joseph Gallegos, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate me. My favorite thing about the United States is the schools, especially high school. The teachers at the schools are very responsible My New Country about the students’ education. For example, they care about the Olga L. Najar, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate students’ learning. The schools here in the United States have My life in the United States is much easier than how it was in many extracurricular activities and student organizations. There my country. That is very important for me because I do not have are many opportunities to get involved in school. In high school I any relatives here who can help me. One of the things I really like used to be involved in student council, the Spanish club, and the about this country is the easy way to make your payments and get tennis team. There are many resources available to students. Some access to public services. You can make payments by mail or on- resources are the library, the computers and the college room. In line without having to worry so much about getting your money the library you can do research. The college room can guide you in lost or stolen. If you want to contract electricity, gas and water for how to apply for scholarships and college. This is why high school your home or business, you can do that with a simple phone call is my favorite aspect about the United States. High school really or internet. Another advantage of this country is the easy access provides a good foundation for college and life. to credit cards, student loans, home and car loans. That situation Living in the United States is a Great Blessing is very difficult to find in my country because if you want to go to college, you have to pay out of your own pocket. Even worse, Mac Morales, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate credit lines to buy a new car or home are very rare to find. The I enjoy living in the United States for many reasons. For example, government does not have this kind of benefit like here. One the roads are very safe, and they are usually kept in excellent con- of the most important points about living in the United States dition. On every road, I can find signs that warn me if I am going is safety. You do not have to worry much about your personal in the incorrect direction. For this reason, driving a car or truck belongings, robbery, or getting kidnapped. Although these unsafe in the United States is very easy. Another reason I like living here activities exist and happen here, their magnitude and frequency is because the vast majority of people respect the laws. Nature is are not as bad as they are in other countries. For all these situa- another reason why I enjoy living in the United States. Beautiful tions, living in the United States is very comfortable for me and forests and colorful landscapes are powerful reasons for living here, my family. because I love nature. The United States offers people diverse Page 7 What I Like Most About the U.S.

New Country Jose Ventura, Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate Ni Zhuo, China, Writing–Intermediate I really like living in the United States. There are many reasons The thing I like most about living in the U.S is meeting people from why I like living here, but the main reason is that I like how society all over the world. Being around people from different countries is works in such an organized fashion. The U.S. as a whole is com- very interesting. You will learn that the way they live is very differ- posed of mostly law abiding citizens who make it a great country ent from you. And when they are talking to each other with their to live in. The services that the cities, counties, states and federal language, you won’t understand even one word. But you still listen, governments provide are always available and they work in a very because you want to know what they are talking about. You will orderly manner. Take for example the mail service. Mail service in want to learn about their cultures because they do something that the U.S. is efficient, attentive and organized. It is able to provide a you don’t do in your country. Also, you can taste the delicious food service to the citizens of the U.S. at a very low cost and with a high from the entire world. Since we all come from different countries, degree of reliability. Another example is law enforcement. There are sometimes it is hard to understand each other. But no matter what many laws, rules and regulations in this country, and all of them are country we came from and what language we speak, we are still enforced by the police and other agencies. You can always be sure friends. If someone needs help we will always stand by them. That’s that people are going to follow those laws, and if they don’t they will what I like the most about this country. be punished for their infractions. In conclusion, I like living in the A Dream Comes True! USA because services provided by the government work, and they do so in an organized manner. Ruben Dario Manosalva, Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate Kimheak Him, Cambodia, Writing–Intermediate When I moved to Texas last August I did not think that my dream I like a lot of things about living in the United States. It is a beauti- would come true so soon. For the first time in my life I went to a ful country, safe and comfortable. The people in the United States professional baseball game in America at the Astros home club at are friendly. They have freedom and obey the law. I know a lot of Minute Maid Stadium. It was really amazing to be there because people that come from different countries. Special for me is school I always saw them on TV and not in real life. My family here in because this country has excellent education. This country was in Houston said “It seems to us that you’re like a little kid again.” The my dreams when I was young. It has conservation for animals and things that I liked best were, for example, the incredible stadium trees. It doesn’t have air pollution. The United States always takes capacity. It’s so big; it seats 45,000 people. Everything was just in its care of people in the country. It has a lot of places to go to relax. It is place, the stadium lawn was clean and very green, and all the players very interesting for me. had their amazing uniforms. I ate a wonderful hot dog that tasted so good. Of course, I also had a very cold beer. This day, the Astros won A New Opportunity the game, so people had a very happy celebration. I was so happy Guadalupe Francis. Mexico, Writing–Intermediate too because my childhood dream came true. When I first came to this country, what I liked most were the jobs opportunities there are in it. For instance, I started to work in this Dora Morales, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate country from the third day that I arrived here. I have escalated from I like many things about living in the United States. For example, a simple job to another with more responsibilities, but with better I like the roads, as they are very safe. You can enjoy the country pay. Also I like very much that all people can study. I always wanted while traveling everywhere. Also, I like the houses with big yards to learn English, and I have tried to do it. These are the reasons that and beautiful gardens. The skyscrapers in the big cities are awesome make me love this country. and their architecture, too. In the United States there are many shopping areas. I enjoy looking at many stores in my city because I Corina Reichenbach, Switzerland, can find everything that I need. There is a place that I really like in Oral Communication–Intermediate San Antonio, Texas: the River Walk. In this place you can ride in a On July 29, 2009, in my first week in Texas, I wanted to buy a boat through the river in the middle of downtown and admire the bottle of good wine for my godmother. I asked my cousin Kaila architecture and enjoy listening to the music of bands. You can enjoy to help me. But we didn’t think about the fact that Kaila was only many different foods in many great restaurants by the edge of the twenty years old. After I picked out a very good bottle of wine, we river. However, the most important thing that I like is the original walked to the cash register. The woman at the register asked Kaila American dream: people have the freedom to worship and speak for her driver’s license. Surprise… she’s not old enough to be in this about God. I love living in this country because there are a lot of shop. She explained to the woman that she’s here to help me with things that make it very special to me. my English, but no chance. The manager gave her the order to wait outside. So I was on my own. The lady at the register asked me for Maria Teresa Clark, Colombia, Grammar Review my driver’s license, too. I gave it to her and after a few seconds of I like living in the United States because this country has wonderful searching for the date of birth, she told me with an angry expression opportunities. There are many reasons I like living here, such on her face that I was not twenty one years old. I thought this must as economic and education reasons. One reason is because the be a joke or this woman is very stupid, but she meant it. I showed economic situation in other countries usually is very difficult. Many her my date of birth again: 08.01.1988. What I forgot was that in times it is hard to have a good quality of life. Also I like the quality America the month comes before the day and in Switzerland the day of life in the U.S.A. I can have a good life in this country because comes before the month. I tried to explain the misunderstanding to there are more ways to purchase the necessities. It is substantially her. She called the manager again. My English was not so bad, and more difficult in other countries to get a loan. Another reason is he understood what I said. I could buy my bottle of wine. For five education. Because there are better colleges and more scholarships minutes, I was twenty again. in America, our educational opportunities are superior.

Page 8 What I Like Most About the U.S.

Different Cuisine that some of it will be mismanaged, but we give it anyway. A lot of Karla Reyna, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate it will help out, and that is what matters. I love the self-realization When I first arrived in the United States I didn’t think that it had a that is possible here. Poor men from towns with no traffic lights variety of different kinds of cuisines. For example my first experi- have grown up to become president. One day a woman will take the ence with a different cuisine was with Italian food. My first Italian job, and so will people of all ethnic backgrounds. Most millionaires food restaurant was Olive Garden, and I liked it a lot. Another type did not start out wealthy. They make it on their own and they can of food that I already tasted is Japanese. My experience with this do it because in America we have the opportunity to profit from kind of food was at Benihana, but I didn’t really like it. Also I tried our skills and effort. Chinese food at P.F. Chang’s and didn’t like it either. One kind of food that I like is steak. The place that I like to go is Texas Land Angela Viviana Rey, Colombia, & Cattle Steakhouse. My favorite place to go eat is Buffalo Wild Oral Communication–Intermediate Wings. I have been living here for 9 years, and I’m still discovering I like the United States very much for many reasons. I like the new kinds of cuisines. U.S.A. because this country has a very challenging lifestyle. If I want to succeed, I must learn the language spoken in this country. A Great Country I have learned to understand people from different backgrounds Lucy Munguia, El Salvador, Writing–Intermediate and traditions. Having to learn to drive my own car has been a priv- What I like the most about the United States is that this country is ilege because I had never driven a vehicle in my country. Also, this full of opportunities. Those are found everywhere. For example, I is a country of many opportunities for everybody. If you have goals registered for English classes this fall, and I was working full time. and persist with them, your dreams can come true. The human However, I enrolled and thought: “I am going to find a good job as rights laws in this country are more flexible and reasonable than in a dental assistant in the afternoons.” Thank God and my friend Dr. other countries. The living cost is more accurate with the wages of a Rodriguez, I found it! Now I work with her. Also, living here has regular salary. You can always find good deals with very little money, given me a lot of friends from other countries, who in my country, and that’s a great advantage. In conclusion, I like the U.S.A. because I would not have been able to meet. I have shared good memories of everything that this country has given to me. with them camping in San Antonio, Livingston and in Trinity Lake. In addition, this country had given me the opportunity to support Nádia Pinheiro, Brazil, people and children by volunteering once a month in Angel Food Oral Communication–Intermediate Ministries and supporting LIFE Outreach International Ministries. What I like the most about the United States is that it has the best Career opportunities, multicultural friends, and volunteering pro- and most modern equipment and technologies in the world, such grams are what I like the most about this great country. as computers, video games, televisions, communication devices. It is really simple to communicate with the entire world from the Unit- Trang Hoang, Vietnam, Writing–Intermediate ed States. You can use cell phones or the most modern computers. When I graduated high school in my country, my parents allowed Traveling to any part of the country is very easy, too, because the me to go far away from them. I decided to come to the United States freeways are large and it is possible to reach high speeds on them. for college. I felt very happy because I thought I didn’t have to de- I also like the people where I live, first because they are very friendly pend on my parents because I was an adult. I came on 01/1/2008, a and kind, and second because this country is ethnically diverse and holiday in America. I didn’t go to school for about 15 days because people from all over the world live here. Finally I like this country the school changed from fall semester to spring semester. I stayed very much because it is the best place in the world to shop. There with my friend at home. We had a lot of free time and we went to are a lot of stores where I can buy great clothes, shoes, electronics a lot of places. Everything was very beautiful and exciting to me. and much more at a very affordable price. I went to the store with someone to buy some things I needed. It was very amazing because I came about 10:00 pm, and some Bibiana Barajas, Colombia, stores were still open. In my country stores are not open at night. Oral Communication–Intermediate At the end of the holiday I went to school to study. I like to study I am surprised to see that this country has a mix of cultures, foods, here because we have a long weekend and a lot of holidays. The and physiologies. But all these are working under the same lan- students don’t study too much at school but they are knowledge- guage, and same identity. It is amazing that despite this variety, able about the lessons at school because they spend time studying the American people still conserve their values. I believe that is the at home. It is different in my country. In my country we study a lot reason why everyday more people like me want to come to this of time in school from Monday to Saturday. The students depend country. I love three values from the people here. First, they are very on the teacher. The teacher teaches the lesson for the students. I organized, and there are rules and laws for all. This is good because think studying here is better than in my country. The education in nobody can cause damage to another without having to assume the America is the best in the world. I’m very lucky that I live here to consequences. In addition, people know the importance of time study. I like to live in America. I do a lot of things by myself. I have and respect this, at work and at home. They respect and believe the the opportunity to improve myself. I can have cultural exchange word of each other. For example, if I make a promise, it has to be with a lot of countries. Now that I live here, I know how to do a lot real because the people here do not like lies or secrets. For me, this of things. My life here is better than in my country. is wonderful because I can trust the person. And they can trust me. Victoria Howell, Mexico, It is interesting to see the development of the social and cultural Oral Communication–Intermediate aspects of this country. But it is really remarkable to see how all of us can live here together without prejudice of race, religion, and I love how charitable the United States citizens are. A recent report culture. For all this, I like this country. And I am sure that although reconfirmed that Americans give more private money to charity than one day I will leave, I will have more reasons to follow the example the citizens of any other country. We also give our time and exper- of this country, and I am going to apply all that I am learning here tise. When we give to disaster relief, as we did for Katrina, we know in many aspects of my life. Page 9 What I Like Most About the U.S.

Tina (Xi Mei Pei), China, Desyana Dewi, Indonesia, Writing–Intermediate Oral Communication–Intermediate I like some systems that have been established in the USA that I like living in the United States and Kingwood. I especially somehow make life a little bit easier. For example, the highway like the college where I am studying English. I am studying at system goes along from state to state and is very organized; people Kingwood Lone Star College. There are many friendly teachers at use it for free, and it is well maintained. I had lived in several Lone Star College. I like to study here because the teachers help countries and have never seen another highway system that is the me improve my English a lot. There is a very good environment. same. Another good system is the communication system. It is At Lone Star College, there are a lot of foreign students. They are one of the cheapest in the world. For example, with little money, very funny. I am able to learn more about different cultures. I also people can stay connected to the Internet and telephone as much like the teachers at Lone Star College because they are responsible. as they want, while maintaining excellent quality. Those two Now my English has improved a lot. I have to thank Lone Star things are very important for the economic growth of the country. College teachers, “Thank you very much”! The USA is the strongest country in the world because they keep their transportation and communication systems as one of their Yudelmis McDaniel, Cuba, top priorities; this should be appreciated by anybody who lives in Oral Communication–Intermediate the USA. No wonder the USA is still a favorite place to pursue What I like the most about the U.S. is the freedom I obtain. I one’s dream. have the choice of being what I want to be, and I am not criticized for my decisions. I have the freedom of choosing the lifestyle I Angela Santos, Colombia, Writing–Intermediate want. I also like the fact that now that I am living in the U.S., I can list several things that I like about the USA, but as the I have to become independent. Living in the U.S. has made me purpose of this essay is to write a specific thing, I say that it would an independent person. For example, I have learned to drive, be the opportunities. These opportunities are found in different and now I don’t have to depend on anyone to take me wherever areas. For example, in the professional area, there are more jobs I want to go. Shopping is another thing I like the most about the available in the labor market. Here you can find many opportuni- US because I have the opportunity to buy any product whenever ties even though you have only one area of study. For instance, in I want and wherever I want. I am also given the alternative of the construction trade, people that have a background in architec- buying retail or by bulk. There is a variety of products at the stores ture, civil engineering, and sales can find a growing industry with at different prices, so I get to choose the product I like the best. a variety of jobs. You can find a job that is outside your field of Shopping helps me to relax my mind. There are many other things study. Conversely, in my country you are limited to working in I like about the U.S., but the above mentioned are what I like the your specialty only. Another important advantage in the U.S. is most because they are part of my daily routine. education. Education plays an important role in the development of the people. It seems to me that this country gives better access to higher education. However, it is not very economical. But the government provides a wide range of options to help students with the cost of education; for example, there are scholarships, grants, and financial aid to study. In order to complete your college degree or if you want to acquire a skill, you have to attend either a university or a community college. As a result, you will find a better job. There are many resources available to study by yourself. For instance, the libraries offer literacy and English as a Second Language programs to help adults with basic reading, writing, and spoken English skills, so they can reach personal and professional goals. Finally, I believe that the USA is a special land of opportunity, whether you take it or not, it is available for you. Just dare to dream, work hard and your dreams will come true. Shu Chen (Kelly), Taiwan, Writing–Intermediate Javier Correa, Colombia, I like the education system and the wide open spaces. The school Oral Communication–High Intermediate bus picks up children to go to school, which helps parents save United States has many interesting places and things to know. In time. The classes are small so that it is easy to take care of the chil- this country you have a lot of opportunities to study if you want dren. The cafeteria supplies food to the children, and the children to learn something. You can also find a job that you really enjoy. are able to choose what they like to eat. The U.S. has a twelve Another aspect that I like about the U.S is the variety of cultures year-long system of education. In my country, there are only nine that you can find here, and this is very important because you years. E.S.L. programs help foreigners overcome the language ob- learn that everyone has different points of view about life. The stacle, and there is no age limit. Also, I live in house with a yard. people here are kind and friendly and always ready to help you. My husband likes to plant vegetables in our back yard. In Taiwan You can find all kinds of food and restaurants from all over the it is so crowded, that we do not have the space to have a garden. world and not just food. You can also see stores and buy clothes What I like most about the U.S. is that the system of education from any brand that you can imagine. Here are many different has allowed my daughter to obtain a higher level of education. I kinds of cars, from the most expensive luxury cars to the cheapest also enjoy the wide open space and fresh air. ones. All of these things make U.S. a wonderful and incredible country to live in.

Page 10 What I Like Most About the U.S.

Kitanda Shotwani, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, it to you. I enjoy being with all kinds of humans. I really like this Writing–Intermediate country because I find people from all over the world. My name is Kitanda Shotwani and I am from the Democratic Javier Barrera Betancourt, Venezuela, Republic of the Congo. I have been in the United States since 2009, riting–Intermediate ten months ago. Let me tell you about something that I like most The thing that I like most about the U.S. is the wonderful people. in the United States. In the United States, I like the educational sys- Many people are friendly. When I came to the U.S., in the airport, tem, specifically Kingwood College. There are many students who many people were friendly and they helped me move my bags. come from different backgrounds. One student comes from Korea, Other people also told me where I could go to have a good time. South Asia. Another is from Venezuela. When I arrived here, many One day, I felt bad and down because I was missing my country, weeks ago, I registered on campus with the little English that I stud- but the people that I had met told me that I should feel good ied in my country. Every semester, I have a nice teacher and they because this trip was going to help me grow as a person. For these teach me vocabulary and verbs. Using my experience, if someone reasons, I think that what I like most about the U.S. is the people, from my country comes to the United States, I would tell him that the culture, and the education. Everyone needs to be educated to he must begin with the ESL program, which helps international be their best every day. students. Mihir Patel, India, Writing–Intermediate Marco Ortega, Peru, Writing–Intermediate What I like most about the United States is the opportunity to There are many things I like about this country. I like the diversity work. If you are intelligent, you can be whatever you want. In of restaurants and job opportunities that are available. I like the the United States most people respect the driving rules, and there diversity of cultures that come from all around the world; they are courts for people who do not follow the rules. In addition, I have brought different foods, clothes and music. The U.S. has an like the U.S. because the people are friendly. What I also like is open-arms policy to receive immigrants with growth opportuni- that you get to know people from different countries, and they ties. People in the U.S. are very polite; they usually greet you with all try to speak in one language to communicate. You learn about a smile and show their level of education. In addition, most of the many interesting cultures. My dream is to travel all over the world people follow traffic laws and respect police officers and fire fighters. because I want to learn about different cultures, and in the United People in the U.S. have a lot of respect for animals; they love dogs, States I can accomplish that part of my dream. cats, and wild animals. There are many opportunities to study and to start a small business. These might be possible thanks to the fact Diego Tutiven, Panama, Writing–Intermediate that people in the U.S. have a credit system to finance cars, houses First of all, what I like most about the United States are the op- and business. Finally, I love the many different places that portunities: college education, jobs, etc. I also like the people anyone can visit from Florida to Alaska and experience all different and their culture. I also like activities native to Texas, such as cars kinds of weather. I love living in the U.S. shows, the rodeo, and more. Being in the United States for me is a new challenge; everything that I have experienced in my three Ana Guerrero, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate years here as been something that I never thought was going to The United States is a great country! People with disabilities are able happen. Being in the United States has changed my life in differ- to live a life as any other normal person. They are able to work and ent ways, and the things I learn here will move me forward to help have transportation to any place they need to go, such as grocery me accomplish my goals. stores, doctors’ appointments, etc. Basically, they can succeed in any area of their life. In addition, the United States is a great place to Josefina Chiccoli (Fina),Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate live. I feel secure, and I feel that no matter what happens, my rights What do I like most about the U.S.? This is not an easy question, as a citizen are well respected. I have the freedom to go and do but I have to answer it. I like the day-to-day in this country, and whatever I like, and I feel like a blessed person. Another reason why now I will try to explain this. Every day you can see around you I like the United States is because you are able to meet very interest- the ordinary people doing things that in other countries seem ing people and learn about other cultures. Diversity is what I like unthinkable. For example, in this country it is possible that your most about the United States. Finally, I like that the United States neighbors could be a young couple with two or three children, a welcomes all the immigrants and gives opportunities to become a big house, two dogs, nice cars, maybe a boat, but they are not rich! better and more educated person. I For instance, here you do not see people with handicaps living a am glad that I came to the United quiet life. You see instead men/women with a prosthetic leg wear- States, and I am happy about all ing short pants, or a family at a restaurant with a loved one in a the great things that the United wheelchair. Even though this person has a serious handicap, they States has given to me. That is why do not care what others think. You feel how happy they are. Also, I became a United States citizen, here in the park you can see many couples with their children en- and I am willing to respect and joying playing games, running, riding bicycles, eating, and yet after protect this beautiful country. they leave the park, the place looks as if nothing happened and there was no one there. So, in this country, life is difficult, the same Zulma Nava, Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate as in others countries, but here you have a sense that everything is Hello, my name is Zulma Nava, and I am from Venezuela. I came easier. People often smile at you, and for me this means that they to Houston almost two years ago. When I first came to the U.S., are satisfied with their own life, and believe me, this you cannot I wanted to return to my country every day, but now I enjoy easily see in other countries. I am someone that had never thought many things about this country. The thing I like the most about about living in this country, but now I think that I cannot live out- this country is the people. The people are very kind and friendly. side the U.S. I like many things from this country, but it was not Everyone has something nice to say, and if you need help, they give simple for me to select just one because I like the U.S. a lot. Page 11

Student Work from Patti Kassner's Oral Communication–High Beginning class

Featured ESOL Faculty: Katalin LeBleu

I love teaching English as a foreign language. Every step my students take on the path of mastering this beautiful language reminds me of my own pains and delights as a learner of English as a second language. I was born and raised in Budapest, the capital of Hungary, where I grew to love English during my high school years. I became so fond of English that I set my heart on knowing more about the culture and the people behind the language. For five years at university, still in Hungary, I studied the literature and the history of the English speaking world; as well, I got familiar with how the English language evolved throughout the centuries. As I was also being trained at how English should be taught to non-native speakers of the language, and I was eager to put my knowledge into practice, I started teaching English in public schools during these years. After graduating, due to Jap- anese as my second major, I earned a scholarship from the Japanese government, and I lived in Tokyo for the next four years. While researching the sociology of education and earning a master’s degree in the field of international economics, I did not give up my true voca- tion of teaching English; I taught English to Japanese adults at a language school. Japan was also the place where I met my husband, Corey, who brought me to the USA. We lived four years in southern California, where I taught in the ESL program of the University of California, Irvine, and had my first baby, Zoli. We moved to Kingwood two years ago, and though primarily I am at home with Zoli and his little sister, Sofie, I very much enjoy my time away from them while I teach in our ESOL program at Kingwood College.

Page 12 An Interesting or Funny Experience in the U.S.

Getting Wet! Isabel Ríos Mangual, Puerto Rico, Erzsebet "Liz" Halasz, Hungary, Reading–High Beginning Writing–High Beginning My friend and I love blueberries very much, and we like to save I started my ESOL classes in Kingwood College this semester. I money. So we decided that we would go to the blueberry farm to have a sister who studied in the same college and many people pick our blueberries. One Sunday, when the weather was sunny, think that we look alike. Sometimes people get confused when we went to the farm. We were already picking our blueberries they see us because they think we are twins, but we’re not. My first when suddenly, it started to rain. We got very wet, but we didn’t few weeks of classes a lot of my sister’s classmates talked to me as if get sick. Next time we will check the weather forecast before we go I was her. Some times when they talked to me, I didn’t understand to the farm. what they were saying because she knew more English than I did. Galveston, Texas Other times I would just go with the flow. My classmates would ask me why I would change my clothes so many times in the same Johana Villarreal, Mexico, Reading–High Beginning day or why I would not say hi to them. What was happening One time I went to Galveston, and it was my first time going to was that everybody was confusing me with my sister, and I must the beach. We went there so we could feel the water. I ran into admit, we do look alike. When they thought it was me sometimes the water, and then my family got me and laid me down on the it was my sister, and that’s the reason why people thought I was sand. They put sand all over me, and it felt heavy on me. When I changing my clothes or that I didn’t say hi to them. Now every- stood up, the sand started to fall off me. Next I put my daughter body knows who we are even though they still think we are the on the sand like me, and I put sand all over her. The reason why is same person. because I wanted my daughter to feel how heavy it was. This story was funny to me because it was my first time in the ocean water. Carmen Rosa Sierra, Colombia, Writing–High Beginning Two Week Vacation: Guadalupe Lopez and Her Family On August 1, 2008, my family and I arrived in Miami. As we got out of the airport, it was extremely hot so we got on a bus to my Guadalupe Lopez, Mexico, Reading–High Beginning aunt’s house. The next morning my husband rented a car to start Last year I went to Jackson, Mississippi, for my vacation to visit a 20-hour trip from Miami, Florida, to Houston, Texas, where he my brother- in- law and his family. We went to the zoo, the now lives. This was longer than my family and I had ever trav- amusement park, some beautiful lakes, and a water park. We en- eled. During the trip, my husband did a stop to eat in a fast food joyed ourselves a great deal, and it was an unforgettable vacation. restaurant called KFC. I come from a country where we don’t eat Augusto Bovio, Uruguay, Writing–High Beginning spicy food, so when I ate the chicken I felt sick for the rest of the I am from Uruguay, a little country in South America. I like to trip. I was crying from stomach pain. I learned that before eating cook. When I was in the USA for a few days, I thought about sur- in a restaurant, always question if it’s spicy food. prising my wife one night with a special dinner. I wanted to cook Jiseong Kim, South Korea, Writing–High Beginning estofado, which is the name of traditional dish from my country One of my classmates invited me to her house. It was my first time that my wife likes. This dish consists of meat, rice, vegetables and at a party in America. She lives in an apartment. Her name is Lilia. spices. When I opened the cabinet in the kitchen, I saw some She comes from Brazil. She lives in Houston with her husband spices. I said to myself this is fine because I have everything that I and her daughter. We met at one o’clock. There were fourteen need. In my country we have red pepper and the only thing that people at the party. Among them, there were two teachers and the this pepper does is to give flavor and color and thickness to the teachers’ families. We gathered in her apartment swimming pool. food, and it is very good. I saw this pepper in my kitchen and There were barbeque grills. Lilia and her husband made lunch threw it in the food, maybe too much. When the food was ready and Brazilian barbeque. We ate a lot of food. It was very nice. I I served the dish and called everyone to come to the table and eat ate chicken heart barbeque. Its taste was very strange. The day was the dinner. But in three seconds everybody ran around the house very hot, so we swam in the pool. The pool was big and beautiful. in search of water because it was too hot. I had not realized that A Saudi Arabian guy, Truki, and a Taiwanese, Ivy, were playing at this pepper here was from Mexico, and it was very hot. So we the outside pool. Truki didn’t like swimming. He got on a boat, ended up throwing all the food in the trash and that night we had but the boat was a very small, so the boat capsized. His clothes got pizza for dinner. wet. All the people laughed loudly at that time. We took pictures, Gloria Martinez, Venezuela, Writing–High Beginning. and then came back home. I don’t forget my first barbeque party. I am from Venezuela. I have been living here in USA for one year. It was very nice and exciting, and I don’t forget my classmate, I have many things to tell you. One day I was shopping with my Lilia. Truki, Ivy, Sue, and Teresa went back to their country. daughter. I had only been here for three months and did not speak Gloria Salazar, Mexico, Writing–High Beginning English. That day I bought a nice pair of shoes. When we came An unforgettable experience that happened to me here in Houston back home, I saw the shoes had a defect, and I needed to exchange was when I was going to my friend’s house because I was going them. I had to go back to the store by myself because my daughter to drive her to the clinic. I was driving when a truck hit me in had to go to work. She explained to me how to get there and what the side of my car and made my car spin and it got me out of the to say to the salesman in English. I studied all night, practicing street. I was 7 months pregnant. I got scared a lot but thanks to how to talk to the salesman. The next day I went back to the store. God the ambulance came and they hurried me to the hospital. I I was very nervous to talk to the salesperson. So much that I for- was there for one month under treatment. After I got out of the got what to say. So I tried my best to explain to the salesman that I hospital they gave me a date for court. I couldn’t pay my ticket so needed to exchange the shoes, but I was very confused. The funny they gave me a community job for two weeks. This accident put part is that after trying so hard, the salesman said, “Don’t worry, I my baby in jeopardy, and it was horrible being in the hospital for a speak Spanish, too”. long time because that is where you notice how many friends you have but thanks to God my family was with me. Page 13 An Interesting or Funny Experience in the U.S.

Alan Ruy Sanchez Santini, Mexico, Two Events in the Atlanta Airport Writing–High Beginning Sandra Herrera, Colombia, I like going skiing in Colorado with my grandparents. In Decem- Oral Communication–High Beginning ber of 2007 we went to Arizona and we had Christmas there. On When I first came to this country, my airplane stopped in Atlanta, December 26 we arrived in Colorado by car. It was a long distance, Georgia. The first event was that the first thing I saw was so many so we stayed for one day in another ski park. On December 27 we overweight people. I never thought that the problem was so went to Colorado and we skied for 5 days or 6. It’s my best experi- big in this country. Here, I learned that Mexico is the number 1 ence because I love snowboarding. We spent our New Year there, country for obese children and the second is the United States. I and there was a party in the town. All the people went there and am sorry for this, but in my country, it is not the same. everybody had fun. Then from there we went to Arizona, and we all The second event was that I was lost for 20 minutes in the very big stayed there for one week, and I was so happy because all the family Atlanta airport. I didn’t speak English and I didn’t take the tram to was there. We played golf, swam in the pool, and we bought clothes the main terminal. I was so nervous because I was all alone. I did and played video games. Then I went to Nogales, Arizona, to visit ask two people for help, but they didn’t understand me. I sat for my cousins and uncles who live there and we had a lot of fun there. 10 minutes, took a break, and relaxed. After the break, I found Water Aerobics Class my exit. Wei Wei, China, Oral Communication–High Beginning The Fifth Blooper One day, our teacher Patti told us that she would be going to take a Maria Zenteno, Mexico, class in the water that evening and if she didn’t come to class tomor- row, to please ask people to look for her underwater. And she wrote Oral Communication–High Beginning the class name on the board for us. Embarrassingly, I didn’t know the When I left Mexico City the first time to visit my boyfriend and word. Initially, I just thought she was going to take diving train- to meet my future parents-in-law, I was worried about the ques- ing. “How brave Patti is!” I told myself. This was the kind of thing I tions of the immigration officers. My boyfriend told me that if wanted to learn when I was young. the officer asked me where I was going to stay, I should say that I was going to be at the La Quinta Hotel. So, when I got here and That same evening, for some reason, I communicated with Patti by the officer asked me that question, I thought to myself that it was e-mail. She explained to me that she was doing exercises in the water, better to translate the name of the hotel. I didn’t know that the and that it was 10 feet deep. People couldn’t stand up in the water name of the hotel was actually, LA QUINTA. Therefore, I told and for 90 minutes, they had to keep moving to stay “up.” I thought the officer that I was going to stay at “The Fifth Hotel.” He didn’t I understood, but it seemed I did not. Later, she wrote that class react or say anything to me, but when I told my boyfriend, he name, “Water Aerobics” again in her e-mail. Oh, I finally realized laughed a lot, and then he proceeded to explain to me what I had that she wasn’t taking diving training in the water! done and then I laughed, too. The next morning, Patti came to class with a fresh face, and energetic talking, although she said she was a little tired after 90 minutes of staying “up.” Everybody likes her class and was glad she wasn’t at the bottom of the 10 foot deep swimming pool. Water aerobics is extremely good for people’s health. I’m happy for her. Read First before Using Omaira Hernandez, Ecuador, Oral Communication–High Beginning This is a very funny story that happened to a couple of my friends who came here to spend the holidays at my house. I took them to Houston, and they were fascinated to see how organized and nice it is in this country. They visited many tourist sites and enjoyed the famous BBQ. Here in Texas everything is big and clean. I always have Clorox wipes to clean and disinfect the toilet. My friend’s husband had been complaining of a red, burning problem. Then we heard high-pitched screams coming from the bathroom. He had confused the Clorox wipes with Cottonelle personal wipes and had been using them for several days. Now we can laugh about what happened, but he learned that everything has to be read first before using. An Experience in the United States Flavio Calzini, Italy, Oral Communication–High Beginning In my first weekend in the United States, I went to a restaurant with my family. I was happy because I like to eat different kinds of food. I have a sweet tooth. When the girl asked me what I wanted, I didn’t say a word. I was very embarrassed because I didn’t know how to say the name of the dish. I felt bad, but fortunately I was with my family and they helped me.

Page 14 What Surprises Me Most about the U.S.

Marleny Knezek, Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate Yexenia Slaughter, Venezuela, Writing–Intermediate Since I came to the United States, I have been surprised by many When I came to the United States, I was amazed by the numbers things. I have been surprised by the number of opportunities of opportunities available for people who want to work hard and available for people who want to work hard and be successful. get ahead. Besides employment opportunities, there are many Besides employment opportunities, there are many education programs available for going to school and getting loans to buy programs available. In addition, it is easy to get loans for purchas- a car or a house. In two to four years, if people are serious about ing a car or buying a house. The education system is advanced. succeeding, they can get a loan to get an associate’s or bachelor’s When students graduate from high school, they already have im- degree. With this degree, they will be able to pay back their loans portant skills. The technology here is also very advanced, especial- and establish a good credit rating that can help them start their ly medical technology. Also, the U.S. has a good system of trans- own businesses. With more hard work and good decision mak- portation. Another surprise is how many people from different ing, people can build up their businesses until they become a gold countries there are who speak different languages. The weather mine. Many immigrants in this country have become rich by sim- has been a big surprise. It is very different from the weather of my ply taking advantage of its many opportunities. In my country, home country. I have had to get used to the changes in weather these opportunities are not nearly as plentiful. I am so happy to and buy clothes for the different seasons. be in the United States and to be a citizen. Sandra Rios, Puerto Rico, Writing–Intermediate Beatriz Arceo, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate What surprised me about the United States was the racial discrim- I have had many surprises about the U.S. I have been living in the ination. I always read about it in the history books, on how people U.S. nearly two months now, but before living here I had come were treated differently because of the color of their skin, national- several times on vacation. The first time I came to the U.S., I was ity, and language. Every day and every place that I went to, I felt surprised by many things. First, the roads are very big and have like nobody wanted to be with me because I was different. To be various levels. In Mexico City, roads are flat. Second, the streets friends with somebody was sometimes very difficult. Racial dis- are clean. What a surprise! In my country, the streets have gar- crimination is not always expressed in words. Sometimes, gestures bage. Third, the houses were a shock for me. They are beautiful expressed more than words. Sometimes, people acted differently and most are made of wood. Fourth, I was surprised that in the when I tried to communicate with them because after they heard U.S. almost all people have a car. Fifth, the biggest surprise is how my accent they made funny faces. Also, people would sometimes nice people are. I thought American people were cold and rude, say to me, after I had spoken to them in English, “I do not speak and I was wrong. American people are nice, kind, and polite. Spanish.” Being in another country is a great opportunity to have surprises, In order for me to be able to continue succeeding in this country, and I have definitely have had many surprises about the U.S. I have decided to disregard people’s negative gestures and reactions Oscar Hernandez, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate toward me. I cannot allow myself to be affected or intimidated by When I arrived to the U.S., there were many things that surprised people who tend to treat others as inferior. For me to accomplish me. The U.S. has beautiful freeways that my country does not this, I must be strong, resilient, and tenacious. I must have a clear have. The U.S. has huge skyscrapers with beautiful views. The understanding of my strengths and potential. This is how I have U.S. also has advanced technology. In addition, the U.S. has great been able to succeed until this point. However, I understand that I opportunities for people to take advantage of. Another thing that have to be kind to everyone, regardless of how they treat me. The surprises me is all the different food from various cultures. That is best way to show racist people that we are not who they think we why the U.S. surprises me. It is the different varieties that it has. are is by giving them a good example of how to be a responsible and kind citizen of this country. Maria Rosales, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate Elias Palacios, Mexico, I have been amazed by the culture. It is so different from the culture of my native country. A variety of different ethnic cultures Oral Communication–Intermediate and people from all over the world come here amazed by the What surprised me most about the USA were all the resources students have to attend school. In the United States, the government opportunities offered by this beautiful country, but the patriotism provides students with transportation, and students have breakfast and American ideas still remain intact even after years and years of and lunch during school hours. These services are provided for people from other countries coming and going. This country has free or for a minimum cost, depending on the income of their a lot of different ethnic cultures. We need to adapt to this country parents. On the other hand, in Mexico, we don’t have the same and be a part of this amazing culture. resources and opportunities to attend school. For these reason, I Santana Herrera, Mexico, Writing–Intermediate believe that the USA is a country blessed by God. What surprises me about the U.S. is how clean people are. They Lydia Lizbeth Escalante Gutierrez, Mexico, have trash cans on every corner, and they are very strict about Oral Communication–Intermediate the places where people can throw their garbage away. American people also have volunteer groups to clean the cities. When I go The first time I came to U.S., I was surprised at how time goes so to Mexico, I can see the difference. I wish my country would start fast. People are always in a hurry to get some place. Their jobs, a program to keep the cities clean. In Mexico, people try not to most of the time, are far from their homes, which doesn’t allow contaminate the environment by not using their cars every day in them to spend time in the house with their families. I come from the cities or not using pesticides on their farms. They seem to for- a small city in Sonora, Mexico. In Sonora, we don’t have to go get that littering is another form of contamination that hurts the far to buy food, or to go to school. Time goes slowly and you can environment and affects the view of the tourists that visit Mexico. spend time with your family. In conclusion, the U.S. has good programs to keep cities clean, and it shows. Page 15 What Surprises Me Most about the U.S.

What Surprises Me changing her marital status. Before she got married, her last name Luis Fuenmayor, Venezuela, Writing–High Intermediate was her father’s last name. After she married her first husband, October 2009 marks the first anniversary of my arrival to the United her last name was changed to her husband’s last name. Then she States. The day I arrived coincided with the Fall Garage Sale at changed her last name back to her original name because she got Kings Manor neighborhood in Kingwood. That day I thought it was divorced. Recently, she has married again, so her last name is her a really smart practice, but one year later, I look at it with sadness, second husband’s last name. Changing names is not an easy job. as it demonstrates a poor sense of financial planning and a waste of It appears in many areas, such as in your social security number, resources. driver’s license, automobile insurance and registration, work- related information, insurance policies, bank accounts, utility bills, The fact that families can sell their used, and sometimes unused, post office address, credit cards, and other things. A woman in the belongings seemed to be a very smart way of getting rid of things United States may change her last name many times in her life. while making a profit. Such things can, in addition, be acquired at a lower price by people who need them. However, if we look at Sory Mingo, Dominican Republic, the background, we will probably realize that the need for selling is Writing–High Intermediate triggered by another circumstance: the need to create storage space When I first came to the United States in 2001 from my county in the house because so much space is used to keep the things that Dominican Republic, there were several things that surprised families do not use anymore. me a lot. I was surprised by the big buildings, the food, and the How does an average family come to accumulate so many things? American culture. How do they get to the point of having to leave their cars outside on The buildings were so big. This surprised me a lot. I came from a the driveway because there is no room in the garage to park them? small country, and I had never seen such huge structures like the The reason is simple- we buy more than what we really need. We ones here before in my life. I had not imagined that there were see it every year on Black Friday, after Christmas, after New Year’s, these kinds of buildings in the world. and during Spring Break. People go out to do shopping and end up buying things that they do not need, just because they were on sale. Another thing that surprised me was the food. It was so unfamiliar This situation sometimes gets so aggravated that it is necessary to to me. For example, in my country, everyone cooks at home while rent storage space to keep their houses clean, adding an unnecessary here in the U.S you find a fast food restaurant on every corner. burden on the family budget since they incur additional storage fees. Americans’ favorite foods are: hot dogs, sandwiches, pancakes, Indeed, the money spent on useless stuff could represent a significant hamburgers, and French fries. Also, I am not going to forget amount in the future if people were responsible enough to put it in a about their favorite drink–Coke. savings account. Finally, what surprised me most was the American culture. My Let us try to become smarter buyers and not get caught in the “Big main problem was the language. I did not want to go outside Sale” trap. The items that go on sale are the ones that consumers do because I could not speak English fluently. Another cultural dif- not buy, so after a certain amount of time stores drop prices to sell ference was how everyone stayed busy and kept their own space, them anyway they can, and by doing so, they will finally catch the making people seem very unfriendly. people who thought that buying them at original prices was not a However, one day I realized that everything happens for a reason, good idea. This sounds like a good trade, but there is a well-known and I had to get used to it. Nowadays, I am not surprised about behavior that marketing experts exploit: once you step into the store, the big buildings. I am starting to like American foods, and I am you are likely to buy more than what you were planning to. In the feeling more comfortable with the language and more involved in end, people get lured into the “Big Sale” to save money and spend this country’s culture. more than what they initially budgeted, having to store in the garage all sorts of useless tools, appliances, and clothes. After a few months Dora Arrieta, Peru, Oral Communication–Intermediate or years, these items will be sold in a typical garage sale for less than When I came to the United States, I was surprised to see how the initially invested. people respect the traffic signals. In my country, Peru, the people Next time you go out shopping, think about what you really need. drive too fast, and they don’t respect the signals. I’m very disap- Remember the convenience of having a really clean and organized pointed with how people drive in Peru. Talking about this subject garage, and most importantly, keep in mind that if you save fifty makes me very sad because my two brothers died in car accidents. dollars a month in an account that yields a ten percent return, in Last, I was very surprised to see that nobody walks to go anywhere twenty years you will have more than $370,000 in savings instead of here in Humble. a garage full of trash. Diana Wong, China, Degang Chen, China, Writing–High Intermediate Oral Communication–Intermediate I have now gotten used to women changing their last names. I know There are many things that have surprised me in the United States: now what has happened if a woman suddenly changes her last name. 1. The Golden Gate Bridge has surprised me because it is very Either she has gotten married, or she has gotten divorced. I remem- long and it has an incredible red color. ber during my second year of graduate study at Middle Tennessee 2. Houston freeways are very wide and very long. State University when Dr. Debord, who had taught me the previ- ous semester, changed her name to Dr. Harvey after the summer 3. I have been very surprised by Houston’s China Town. China break. I was really surprised after my classmates explained to me that Town expands from Bellaire Blvd all the way to Sugar Land. I was American women change their last names when they get married or very surprised to know that many people live in this area of the get divorced. This happens very often around here. For example, one city. of my co-workers has changed her last name three times because of 4. The San Jacinto Monument and the Museum to commemorate Texas’s Heroes and Heritage has also surprised me because it is Page 16 twelve feet taller than the Washington Monument. Who is My Hero?

Larissa de Athayde Bohrer Soares, Brazil, Gladys Sánchez, Colombia, Oral Communications–High Intermediate Oral Communication–High Intermediate My hero is my grandfather. His name is Clóvis de Athayde Bohrer, My hero is my father because he taught me perseverance, values, and he is a retired pilot of the Brazilian Air Force. His father died and responsibility. He grew up in a small town in an underde- when he was three years old, and his mother had to work very veloped country. His life was not easy. He had a fascination with hard to raise her three sons. In the 1940s, when he was eighteen, learning, and he loved to read and write. He wanted to become a he joined the Brazilian Air Force where he had a successful career. professional, but achieving this goal is very difficult in countries He is a very charismatic and intelligent person. He reads a lot, and where people do not have many opportunities. He had to walk a he is always trying to learn new things. Now, he is 85 years old, long distance to get to high school, and he had to work very hard. but he has the appearance of a 65 year-old man. He works out After many difficulties, he became a successful professional. He every day at the gym and spends hours on the computer, exchang- worked as an engineer in a big company for 30 years. His life was ing e-mails with family and friends. He loves to use Skype to have full of responsibilities. He was never late to work. He was very videoconferences. Now, he is writing a book about his experiences successful, earning the respect of his boss, partners, and employ- as a pilot in the Brazilian Air Force. My grandfather has had a ees. I learned by his example to have respect for different opinions big influence on my life. He has taught me much about life, and and beliefs. He married my mother, who grew up in family with he continues to be an inspiration for me. We love each other very a different religion from his. I learned from him that people are much, and I am his biggest fan. worth what they have in their hearts. During a difficult time in my country, my father raised my family with perseverance, respect, Rosa Santana, Mexico, and values. For this reason, my father is my hero. His beliefs and Oral Communications–High Intermediate character gave me a perfect example to follow. I have had many heroes in my life, and one of them is Princess Di- ana. She got my attention when she died in a tragic accident on August 31, 1997. It is not her death, however, that is important, but rather, her life. I want to recognize the fact that no matter how rich, beautiful, and famous she was, she dedicated her short life to humanitarian causes. She was a very devoted person who helped many people and charity organizations. During a visit to a hospital, and an AIDS patient began to cry when he saw Princess Diana. She gave him big hug, demonstrating to the world that they too are deserving of love, and physical contact with AIDS patients is safe. She also worked with hospitals for leprosy, let- ting reporters take photos of her with the patients to raise public awareness and collect donations for the cause. Her plan was successful. She also donated her clothes to auctions to raise money for charities. She always used her time to help those in need, like the victims of landmines. One day, Princess Diana was talking to Mother Theresa, and she asked her what she should do with her life. Mother Theresa answered that she should dedicate her life to helping others, and that is what she did until the day she died. Sonia Calzini, Italy, Oral Communication–High Intermediate In my English class, I had to write about my hero. I was staring at a piece of paper for long time without writing anything, and so I closed my notebook. I thought to myself, “How I can write about something that I don’t have?” The day to turn in the assignment was coming soon, and it still wasn’t ready. One night, I was thinking about it, and I realized that I don’t have one hero; I have many heroes. For me, a hero is someone who supports, helps, and listens to another person. In each important moment of my life, happy or sad, I have had a hero. There have been many different people who have been a hero to me, because when something important happens, it is difficult or impossible to choose the person you want near you. I don’t want to name names, because they were, and still are, important to me in different ways, and writing their names would appear to put them in order of importance, and that is not fair. All of these people are very special to me, and I have learned a lot from them. They are my heroes, and I care for them deeply. I will be always grateful to them.

Page 17 This I Believe

A Solution for Corruption Tieng Sok, Cambodia, Miguel Reina, Venezuela, Writing–High Intermediate Oral Communications–High Intermediate I believe in a solution for Venezuela. I believe in a country where the There are many people who have influenced my life and made supreme power is vested in the people. I know that this belief will me a better person, but the people who have influenced me the come true. Venezuela has become a world of mismanagement and most are my parents. For this reason, they are my heroes. If not corruption. But with the right leaders, the country can be changed for them, there would be no “me.” My parents have always been for the best. there for me when I needed them. They did a great job raising Venezuela’s government has become a land of inequity. Most of the my brothers and me, and they worked hard to give us everything people have to agree with the abuses of politicians to get jobs. Many we needed and wanted. No matter what I do wrong, as long as Venezuelans are part of the government just because they find money I tell them the truth, they will forgive me. They have taught me there, which is product of injustice. Politicians get rewarded for their many things. They worked hard to send me to good schools and corrupt bargains, so they need to get punished for their corruption. bring me to the United States. All they want is for me to have a All the money that they get is because of their abuses. People need to good life and be happy. I know it has been difficult for them to open their eyes and finish with this corruption. I know that Ven- raise a family. I remember having a very bad fever for four days ezuelans can solve this problem because they have demonstrated so. when I was 12 years old. My father took me to the doctor during Many people are afraid of the government, which is led by President the night, and they were very worried about me. My mother sat Hugo Chavez. I think that they must be waiting for an appropriate beside me, using a bag of ice and a towel on my forehead to keep moment because this situation is getting out of hand. If Venezuelans my temperature down. That was a moment I will never forget, as do not do anything against the government, there might be an in- she took care of me and made me feel safe while she was with me. tervention from the United States’ government, which has tolerated I won’t have that feeling again because she has left us for the other Chavez’s offenses. Hugo Chavez, who has said that Venezuela is a world. Even though my mother passed away four years ago, she country of democracy, is totally demonstrating the opposite, which is will always be in my heart. She was a wonderful person to have in communism. Venezuela is a consumerist country, but unfortunately my life. My parents are my heroes, and I love them very much. sales have decreased very much, and this is product of the bad man- I Believe in Travel agement and abuse of this country. Ursula Molski, Poland, Writing–High Intermediate Government should be part of the people. I believe that with the I believe that travelers can learn a lot and help us understand other right management Venezuela’s government, which should be exer- people’s cultures. Traveling encourages people to study more his- cised directly by the people, can be fixed and it will work great. tory about these places because it is easier to remember and learn This is What I Believe history if one sees the places in real life. Fanny Gotay, Venezuela, Writing–High Intermediate If I travel to another country, it inspires me to study a new lan- I truly believe in “God.” Why I do believe in God? Because I think guage. When I travel, I like to know the meaning of the places He exists, I decided to receive Him as my Lord and my Savior. Since and to be able to communicate with the people living there. I I received Him in my life, I have changed a lot. remember when we traveled to Europe how important it was to know how to speak another country’s language and that knowing When I decided to believe in God, I started a relationship with Him. English would not be enough. I knew it was not going to be easy because not everybody believes in Him and people have different beliefs. I am not talking about Traveling also encourages people to study the country’s history. I religion. I am talking about how to talk to Him, and how to be in remember how I went with my children to Poland for two months communication with Him. For many people, God represents the over the summer and how I tried to show them their family’s solution to their problems, so they pray only when they have an home country. Poland is not very big, but it is a beautiful and emergency, or when someone is in a crisis. I think people use Him as friendly country. I tried to remind myself of the places I had been a 911 emergency call, but I think it is not all. in when I visited before, and I wanted to show these places to my children because I knew that it would be the best way to teach I believe in God because I had learned to be in communication with them history about my country. Him every day, every minute and have faith in Him. That way, I know something special is in my life because I can feel that He is like Many people make new friends when traveling to other countries. our parents. They always want the best for us. God is like that too, I visited my old friends and met new friends when I traveled to for He wants to protect us, and He wants the best for us because we Poland. People are very interested in what happens in other coun- are His children. tries, and friends are made quickly and easily because of this. Sometimes, when I am in situations that I cannot control, I just close my eyes and have a communication with Him. I ask Him to give me strength to support me through everything. After that, I know He is going to be in control of everything, and I feel more relaxed, thinking and knowing all is going to be ok. In my opinion, I truly believe in God because I have learned many things. One of them is to have a good relationship with Him every day, not only in bad situations. I know having a relationship with Him brings blessings to my life. I have faith in Him because He is my Father, and He will always protect me. However, the most important thing is that we learn about love, and He shows us love.

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My Inspiration College Degree Martha Lozano, Colombia, Pronunciation I Adriana Lozano Sanchez, Colombia, Writing–Advanced The man who inspires me is great. He is the epitome of humble- In Colombia, South America, students who enroll in college ar- ness, determination, and intelligence. He does not care about rive there with a goal in mind. The students are not financially appearances more than he cares about his soul. He treats people prepared to pay for their courses. The majority of the students do the same regardless of their position or class. His determination not have access to financial support from the government or the has led him to reach what he has wished for in life. He did not college. Other students do not receive support from their families have the opportunity to study as much as he wished, but he is as for food, books or transportation. The determined students who bright and wise as one who studied his whole life. He is one of the are fortunate to attend college must maintain an inspiration to major blessings in my life, but he does not even know how great achieve their goal. he is. I wish someday I could be like him. I just wish some day Every student has a dream to succeed in college. The students he could feel as proud of me as I feel about him, and then, I will dream about the beneficial gains associated with success after grad- tell him that he has been my primary inspiration and I am what uating from college. Their overall desire is to be able to purchase I am due to him. Looking to the future, I wish that someday my the necessities in life. For example, the graduate wants to buy a son will admire me as much as I admire the man who inspires me. sports car and a house or apartment with furniture. Next, the stu- This man who inspires me is my father, and I am proud to be his dents deserve to enjoy the fruits of their labor. For instance, they daughter. might buy a beach house and a boat for recreational purposes. My Inspiration Dedication is essential to complete the college courses in order Daniela Mocofan, Romania, Writing–Advanced to graduate. Every course requires a high degree of research time My husband inspires me. Why? He inspires me because he is the to fully understand the textbook. Many hours of study must be strongest person I know. Life for him was not brilliant all the invested to develop knowledge of the subject. In some cases, the time. In May 1985, he illegally crossed the Hungarian border. He students spend several hours a day to absorb the material of each stayed in France and Germany for one year, and then he came chapter. The students must schedule a time period for rest and re- to the U.S. What pushed him to cross the border illegally? In laxation during each study course. For example, the students could our country, the political regime was totalitarian, and Ceausescu go to the college gymnasium to exercise and relax their minds. governed Romania. In the night, the police came to my husband’s Determination is a strength that must not be broken in order home and took him to jail. He was persecuted in jail. After a short to finish college. With determination the student can overcome time, he came home and started his daily routine again. But life failure during a weak period in his or her life. For example, deter- was not the same for him. In April 2006, I met my husband in mination helps to complete the student’s commitment in spite of our country, and my life changed 360 degrees. their limitations. Determination is a tool that the students use to Now, every day is a battle for my husband. He has atherosclerosis manage time and prioritize goals. Determination can bring out the - coronary artery disease. This year he had two surgeries, and he best in each person. In some cases, when students become discour- has seven stents in his arteries. In spite of it all, my husband is a aged, they use determination to produce patience. selfless and kind person. In whatever way possible, he helps me. Those students who are disciplined in college can achieve their We try to help each other with our problems and to balance life. goal through a dream, dedication and determination. The gradu- He wishes for me a good and easy life. He encourages me to study. ates that receive their college degree have the most important tool I never dreamed that my life would be changed permanently. in their life. Many doors are opened to college graduates to obtain We enjoy our life 100% every day. I hope we will have a long life employment. Efficient employees are promoted ahead of their together. He is my inspiration and my reason to be a good person. peers. With the promotion, the employee gains more experience and pay. The employee will have stability and security in his job for many years. Saurabh Patel, India, Writing–Advanced I am Saurabh Patel from India, and I have been living here for ten months. Inspiration is the most important thing in our life in order to become a successful person. I have chosen my grandfather as my inspiration. He raised me with the best facility I could have wanted and fulfilled my every wish. He has every quality for being my inspiration. Because I consider my grandfather as my inspiration, I have learned a lot of things related to life. In order to gain education, I always listen to his ideas and thoughts before doing any activity. He gives me lot of information regarding education and considers it as the success of life. So, I focus on my studies which will lead my life in a good way. Since he is my inspiration, I would like to live my life as my grandfather has with pride and honor. I will use his advice and his teaching, and I will make every decision as he would consider making it. I am really proud of having such a great grandfather, and I love him a lot. Page 19 What Inspires Me

What Inspires Me? about ourselves, our dreams, our goals, and our needs. Thinking Anna-Marie Madsen, Denmark, Writing–Advanced about the possibilities of doing something new or taking on new If I were asked the question “What inspires you?” I would answer: opportunities is much better because I have a caring family that my children, traveling, or a wise person. I have met a lot of inspir- not only supports me but also inspires me with their love and faith ing people through my life, but one is always especially on my in me to fulfill all my goals. mind. Her name is Jette Nielsen. She has always been a role model Inspired by a Mother’s Prayer for me in my work as a nurse and has had a positive influence on the way I live my life as well. Heidi Herrera, Costa Rica, Writing–Advanced Many times I have heard that little moments are what make life I met Jette at The Children Psychiatry Hospital twenty years ago. beautiful, and from my experience, it is unquestionably true. I She was the manager for the children´s ward for young people have been privileged to meet wonderful human beings throughout with mental disorders where I got my first job as a new certified my life that have enriched me with gratifying memories. People nurse. It was a challenging job, and it required a good manager who have inspired me the most are extraordinary individuals. One to understand the issues of her employees. She was an amazing of them is a woman named Elena whose testimony has impacted person with a charisma that gave you the feeling of confidence and my life; therefore, she inspired me to think that I could make assurance that you had done your best. She was a positive person remarkable differences in other peoples’ lives if I chose to. who gave her full attention to listening to your work issues in a very respectful and appreciative way. At that time, I not only real- In my neighborhood, back in Costa Rica, there is a place called ized how important communication skills were for my work but Hogar Montiel. This domicile is a shelter for thirty girls who also for me as a human being. are in social risk. The story of this place is very fascinating and inspiring to me because before it became what it is now, it was When I later became a manager myself for a part of the Children a beautiful home for a family with two beautiful children. This Psychiatry Hospital, Jette was the one who supported me. I had house is spacious with a colorful garden in its surroundings. In the a meeting with her once each week and she gave me supervision front, there is the tallest oak tree of our community. It was a lovely on my management style. I got the inspiration from her about home for a family with two small children, but one day the owner how you could use communication skills to solve problems, and of this little kingdom, Elena, became sick with cancer. The doc- she taught me that no problem is so big that you cannot solve it. tors told her that she did not have much time to live. The cancer A few years later, she appointed me to a two-year communication was advanced; however, they told her that if she took the risk of training which gave me a lot of knowledge and skills. surgery, they could prolong her life a little longer. Elena was only I try to be a positive, open-minded person, and I do believe that thirty-three then. As you might imagine, when she confronted the most people try to do their best. I have used the communication horrible idea of not seeing her children grow, she was devastated. tools also in the upbringing of my children. I have always tried to In those agonizing moments, a childhood memory came back to appreciate the way they deal with their lives and have guided them her. She recalled that when she was in her early school years, her with respect. I know that life can be challenging, and sometimes it favorite teacher always talked about her dream of putting up a can be hard to find the bright side of life. I have tried that myself, home for abused girls. Something happened in Elena’s heart, and and then I am reminded of my wise, old woman who I got my she said a prayer one night. She was scared of the unknown, so inspiration from. she thought of an idea that might give her a second chance to live. Before she went to the operating room, she told her husband that What Most Inspires Me she had offered God the promise to give up her house if he gave Violeta Lanzas, Nicaragua, Writing–Advanced her the opportunity to walk out of the hospital alive. This lovely, In my country, the family concept is a very important value. old house meant a lot to her because it was part of the estate from Twelve years ago I left my country, Nicaragua, and I began a her parents. It was the home which saw her grow up, but nothing new life on my own in the United States. It was very hard for me was more important to her than her life. Miraculously, her prayer because I was far away from my parents and my siblings. I have was answered, and Hogar Montiel is now a home to thirty girls my own family now, but I maintain the same values and feelings who were saved by Elena’s generosity. that I learned from my family when I was a little girl. The feeling Hogar Montiel is a story that touched me very deeply. I had per- of belonging someplace called home and the security of having sonal contact with the group of girls that live there. They all have people that love me make me a stronger person and a better hu- a dark, sad past; however, they were born again in this beautiful man being. My family is my inspirational source for all my present house in Santa Ana, Costa Rica. The most amazing part is that El- and future goals. ena did not realize how many lives she truly saved. She got to see I love the values I have learned from my family. I am a daugh- her kids grow up, but in the process, she rescued strangers through ter, a sister, wife and mother. I learned perseverance and respect her action. Her benevolence made it possible that these young as well as love for reading from my father. From my mother I women learned to dream, live, and laugh in Hogar Montiel. This learned hard work and responsibility. In addition, I learned from is a story of a mother’s love for her children, and it is also a story my brothers and sisters to be caring and tender, and my little girls of compassion and giving. I am inspired by Elena’s story in a very taught me tolerance and patience. It is hard to believe that the profound way. People like Elena are the ones who make this world simplicity of the family’s bonds like brotherhood or motherhood a better place to live in. helps me out in difficult times, and without a doubt it evokes in me all those beautiful feelings of love and optimism. I consider myself a fortunate person because I have a beautiful and cohesive family. We are bonded despite the distance between us. We are always connected, and the most important fact is we talk Page 20 What Inspires Me

What Inspires Me? waste there. One day I was so glad when I found the first waste Soledad Graciano, Argentina, Writing–Advanced battery collection container. Mother Nature inspires me. Being in a wood surrounded by trees, In my household, I started to use green cleaning products, envi- listening to the sounds of the animals, seeing a small bird fly pro- ronmental products which contain less chemicals. Sometimes I duces in me a feeling of calmness and fills me with joy and hope. simply use vinegar like my grandmother did instead of using any I found in travelling as a way of connecting myself with nature. I cleaning products. Furthermore, I try to buy only as many items travel anytime I have the chance. One of the trips I enjoyed most as we can use. I think water is treasure. We try to consume as little was the one I made to the west coast of Australia. There, nature water as we can. So, we only water our plants and grass when they could not have been closer. need it. We use as many Energy Star products as we can afford. I always remember that trip to Australia as one of the best in my Moreover, we have switched to energy-saving light bulbs. We keep life. I took a plane to the city of Sidney. When I arrived to the our home temperature 80 degrees, and we use fans which con- city, I did not have any hotel arrangements because I decided to sume less energy than the air conditioner. travel my own way. I bought a bus ticket from Sidney to Cairns Nature has always inspired me. To protect animals, plants, and the that allowed me to get on and off the bus anytime and anywhere environment I have started to live in an environmentally-friendly I desired. So, I set off on my journey, and the first stop was a farm way. I have taught this to my son. As far as I am concerned, pro- near the city of Brisbane. There I could not have been happier. I tecting the environment, thus saving the Earth, is one of the most spent the day playing with the wallabies and cuddling the koalas. important tasks in our life. I could also see a huge crocodile and many other animals that I had only seen in books. I thought I was in paradise. The following What Inspires Me stops were at amazing beaches where I enjoyed the sun and met a Patricia Flor, Ecuador, Writing–High Intermediate lot of people from all over the world. The last stop was in Cairns, Many things might inspire me: a sunny or rainy day, a new where I took an excursion to one of the most beautiful treasures friend, a sweet memory crossing my mind, a new love song on the of our planet, the Great Barrier Reef. There I swam in the middle stereo, or a little gift that comes from friends or relatives. A sunny of the sea and saw fishes of different sizes and colors as well as sea day inspires me to do outdoor activities such as jogging, running, turtles very close to me. swimming, or cycling. A rainy day makes me calm and inspires me There are many ways to be connected with nature. When I am to do things such as read a book that feeds my thoughts, listen to stressed or disturbed, I find peace in nature. If I do not have the peaceful music, and write about things I have experienced. A new chance to travel, then I go for a walk in the woods, or I ride a friend makes me think of wonderful adventures to share. A new bike with my dog by my side. Or I transport myself to the place love song makes me remember the sweetness of first love when I would like to be with my imagination. My way is travelling to I was an adolescent. A sweet memory crossing my mind recalls different places. This makes me feel alive. Thank you, Mother anecdotes that I have learned in my life. The better gifts that I Nature. have received throughout my life such as a flower, a smile, a hug, a shared moment, or a piece of advice make me feel like a wealthy What Inspires Me girl in this world because I store them in my mind and heart to Katalin Bartha, Hungary, Writing–Advanced bring them back as sweet memories when I feel weak. When I When I lived in my country and worked there, a lot of things believe I am stuck or when I feel I cannot bear my sorrows, those inspired me. Some of them lasted for only a short time while details are my source of inspiration to help me to keep going and others inspired me for longer periods. But nature has inspired me reach my goals, be unselfish, and accept people the way they are. all the time, practically from birth. I have admired the beauty, the Who Inspires Me? diversity, and the changeability of nature. I have always been sad when I noticed a wounded animal or litter along the road or in a Carolyn Mikhael, Syria, Writing–Advanced neighborhood. Therefore, I try to protect the animals and plants I think many people do different things in my life, but my sister is and the environment, as well. the greatest inspiration of my life. Day-by-day I have learned from her, and she has taught me many things. I almost never hurt or kill an animal or a plant. When I hike or walk in nature with my family, we do not make noise in order to I realized that I have a great sister because she is always looking let the animals live peacefully. At the same time, we do not gather forward. She knows that if she wants to have something, she has wild flowers or break tree branches. We always collect our garbage to work for it without leaving her family or values behind. Since and place it in the dust bin later. If we left a plastic bag in the she lost her husband, she works to care for her three daughters so woods, it would take at least three hundred years to dissolve. We that they can continue their education and get married; she does taught our son how to behave in nature and why it is so impor- not think of herself. tant. My sister inspires me every day to be an excellent person. She In addition, I try to manage our household as environmentally- always gives me advice when I need it. I would like to be strong friendly as possible. When we moved into the US, I was so sur- and confident like her. Finally, I would like to tell my sister that prised that people did not separate the garbage and did not return she has been such an inspiration to me. I just want to thank her. the bottles to the stores. In my country, the schools collect paper She is the greatest woman I have known in my life. and iron items regularly on a special day. This has two advantages. First, kids learn how to collect items and protect the environment. Second, schools get money. Here, I was annoyed that the stores packed the purchased items in too many plastic bags. Later, I found several used plastic bag collectors, so I began to place my

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What Inspires Me? I belong to a Muslim family, and my culture is quite different Kattya Flores, Peru, Writing–Advanced from other cultures. Our culture is based on rules which have to What inspires me? I have many things to inspire me. Life, family, be followed by every Muslim. The most important rule is that and my goals are really very important to me and also motivate me Allah is the one most powerful and merciful, and Mohammed is to go on with my daily life and education. his last prophet. We also have to fulfill our duties according to our holy book, the Quran. For me, life is not only a living experience, it is a destiny, and we are responsible to make our life a joyful experience. Life is also a These things inspire me. Sometimes you have to take a step out source of energy that inspires me to set and improve my goals, and into your life, and you have to think of the many things that moti- from my point of view, life is something amazing. Another thing vate you. Living life better by the rules helps you organize yourself. that inspires me is my family. My family is very important to me. An Inspiration in My Life They are my main support system. They have always helped me make important decisions in my life, and without their support, Karen Gomez, El Salvador, Writing–Advanced I would not be here studying English as a Second Language. But, Every person has something or somebody that inspires them. In the person who has inspired me most is my mother. She had an my case, I have a special person that has inspired me since my education and has good principles. She gave me all the tools to be childhood; that person is my mother. The way she taught me all strong and consistent. Also, she showed me the steps that I have the essential things in life and her confident personality makes her to follow to be a better person. My mother is a big part of my life. the inspiration in my life. My mother’s words and examples have In addition, my goals also inspire me. I want to be a successful been so powerful to me. person in the future, and in order to achieve my goals, I need to My mother has always been there for me, despite the adversities speak English for my career. I studied Commercial Aviation which she had to face in life. Since I was a child, she has been motivat- is my professional aspiration. ing me to do my best, to try once or twice whether it is difficult I believe that without these inspirations, I will not be able to or not. In addition, my mother herself is an inspiration in my life. achieve the things that I really want in my life. Having all these All her hard work and sacrifices that she made to raise me as single and watching them turn into reality also inspires me more. parent are admirable. Even more, she constantly encourages me to study in order to have a better future. I will never be able to pay her back. Now that I am an adult and a parent, too, I want to demonstrate to my children that nothing is impossible in this life. All that it takes is perseverance. If I did not have a mother like I did, I would not be the person that I am now. She taught me that responsibility, dedication, and tenacity are things that are needed in life. Inspiration Yasmin Leon, Venezuela, Writing–Advanced Inspiration not only helps to write beautiful poems, songs, or books, but it often helps us to daydream. Sometimes I daydream about my family because they are my inspiration. Every day I daydream about the ways in which they could be happy. I dream that my children are princes and princesses. I see them on the beach’s sand running free under a blue sky. I see them cheerfully running in the meadows. I dream of their laughter and their success. I dream of my children being honest, respectful, responsible, and happy. I also daydream about my granddaughters who are far from me What Inspires Me? yet at the same time very close to me. I daydream of them run- Ali Ishtiaq, Pakistan, Writing–Advanced ning healthy, free, happy, and saying “grandma” again and again. There are many things that inspire me. Sports, music, and my cul- I dream as the breeze moves their hair; they are always smiling. ture inspire me a lot. I like to play sports; I play tennis, ping-pong, Many times I daydream of planning or doing funny things like cricket, and I swim. I have done these sports for a long time. I donning a mask or wearing extravagant clothes because I want to may not be the best, but I am fairly good at sports. When you see them laughing. play any kind of sport, you feel your own strength, and it helps I daydream about myself. I see my husband and me growing old you maintain yourself physically and mentally. It is also good for together, hand-in-hand. I daydream of the kiss that my husband your health, and you can make more friends by joining different gives me every morning and every night like he has done for kinds of sports clubs. 29 years. I dream I am always young because that is my energy, I have been listening to music since I was four years old. I like strength, happiness and my inspiration. every kind of music – classic, rock, pop, and many others. What inspires me are the words that singers use in their songs and the beat they create to make the songs flow; it makes me fall in love with music.

Page 22 Lone Star College - Kingwood Intensive English Program (ESOL) – SPRING 2010

First 8-Week Classes: Start Date: 1/19/2010 —End Date: 3/13/2010 Course Name CREDIT Number CE Number Day/Time Room Language Skills Workshop (48) – Pronunciation I ENGL. 0308, 21801, 10148 CENGL. 3100558, KC850 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 COT 101 Language Skills Workshop (48) – Grammar Review I ENGL. 0308, 21802, 10149 CENGL. 3100558, KC851 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 COT 100 Language Skills Workshop (48) – Learning Language & Culture Through Film ENGL. 0308, 21803, 10150 CENGL. 3100558, KC852 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 LIB 203

16-Week Classes–Day Classes: Start Date: 1/19/2010—End Date: 5/16/2010 Course Name CREDIT Number CE Number Day/Time Room Developmental Reading II (64) For non-native speakers ENGL. 0305, 21E01, 10127 CENGL. 3000501, KC873 MW, 8:30-10:20 LIB 201 ESOL Reading High Beginning (80) ENGL. 0337, 21001, 10151 CENGL. 3003701, KC856 MTWTh, 8:20-9:30 COT 100 ESOL Reading Intermediate (80) ENGL. 0338, 21001, 10154 CENGL. 3003801, KC857 MTWTh, 8:20-9:30 COT 101 ESOL Reading High Intermediate (80) ENGL. 0339, 21001, 10157 CENGL. 3003901, KC858 MTWTh, 8:20-9:30 LIB 203 ESOL Oral Communication High Beginning (96) ENGL. 0343, 21001, 10160 CENGL. 3004301, KC866 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 COT 100 ESOL Oral Communication Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0344, 21001, 10164 CENGL. 3004401, KC867 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 COT 101 ESOL Oral Communication Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0344, 21002, 10165 CENGL. 3004401, KC868 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 TBA ESOL Oral Communication High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0345, 21001, 10168 CENGL. 3004501, KC869 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 LIB 203 ESOL Oral Communication High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0345, 21002, 23519 CENGL. 3004501, KC870 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 TBA ESOL Oral Communication Advanced (96) ENGL. 0346, 21001, 10172 CENGL. 3004601, KC871 MTWTh, 11:10-12:30 TBA ESOL Oral Communication Advanced (96) ENGL. 0346, 21002, 23523 CENGL. 3004601, KC872 MW, 1:30-4:20 TBA ESOL Writing High Beginning (96) ENGL. 0353, 21001, 10173 CENGL. 3005301, KC859 MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 COT 100 ESOL Writing H High Beginning (96) ENGL. 0353, 21002, 10174 CENGL. 3005301, KC860 MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 TBA ESOL Writing Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0354, 21001, 10177 CENGL. 3005401, KC861 MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 COT 101 ESOL Writing Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0354, 21002, 10178 CENGL. 3005401, KC??? MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 TBA ESOL Writing High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0355, 21001, 10181 CENGL. 3005501, KC863 MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 LIB 203 ESOL Writing High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0355, 21002, 10182 CENGL. 3005501, KC864 MTWTh, 9:40-11:00 TBA ESOL Writing Advanced (96) ENGL. 0356, 21001, 10185 CENGL. 3005601, KC865 MW, 10:30-1:20 LIB 201

Page 23 Lone Star College - Kingwood Intensive English Program (ESOL) – SPRING 2010

15-Week Classes (Late Start): Start Date: 1/25/2010—End Date: 5/16/2010 Course Name CREDIT Number CE Number Day/Time Room Developmental Reading II (64) ENGL. 0305, 22E71, 22988 CENGL. 3000501, KC874 MW, 6:30-8:30 LIB 201 Developmental Reading II (64) ENGL. 0305, 23E01, 22993 CENGL. 3000501, KC875 S, 9:00-11:00 COT 101 Language Skills Workshop (48) ENGL. 0308, 21071, 21146 CENGL. 3100558, KC876 MW, 1:30-2:50 LIB 201 Language Skills Workshop (48) ENGL. 0308, 29071, 22997 CENGL. 3100558, KC877 F, 10:00-11:20 COT 101 ESOL Reading High Beginning (80) ENGL. 0337, 22071, 10153 CENGL. 3003701, KC878 MW, 6:30-8:50 LIB 201 ESOL Reading Intermediate (80) ENGL. 0338, 22071, 22967 CENGL. 3003801, KC879 MW, 6:30-8:50 TBA ESOL Reading High Intermediate (80) ENGL. 0339, 22071, 22970 CENGL. 3003901, KC880 MW, 6:30-8:50 TBA ESOL Oral Communication High Beginning (96) ENGL. 0343, 22071, 22972 CENGL. 3004301, KC881 MW, 6:00-8:50 LIB 203 ESOL Oral Communication Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0344, 22071, 22973 CENGL. 3004401, KC882 MW, 6:00-8:50 COT 100 ESOL Oral Communication High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0345, 22071, 22975 CENGL. 3004501, KC883 MW, 6:00-8:50 COT 101 ESOL Writing High Beginning (96) ENGL. 0353, 22071, 22977 CENGL. 3005301, KC884 TTH, 6:00-8:50 LIB 203 ESOL Writing Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0354, 22071, 22979 CENGL. 3005401, KC885 TTH, 6:00-8:50 COT 100 ESOL Writing High Intermediate (96) ENGL. 0355, 22071, 22982 CENGL. 3005501, KC886 TTH, 6:00-8:50 COT 101 ESOL Writing Advanced (96) ENGL. 0356, 22071, 22985 CENGL. 3005601, KC887 TTH, 6:00-8:50 LIB 201

Second 8-Week Classes: Start Date: 3/22/2010—End Date: 5/16/2010 Course Name CREDIT Number CE Number Day/Time Room Language Skills Workshop (48) – Pronunciation 2 ENGL. 0308, 21804, 21140 CENGL. 3100558, KC853 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 COT 101 Language Skills Workshop (48) – Grammar Review 2 ENGL. 0308, 21805, 21141 CENGL. 3100558, KC854 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 LIB 201 Language Skills Workshop (48) – Learning Language & Culture through Film ENGL. 0308, 21806, 22948 CENGL. 3100558, KC855 M-TH, 1:30-2:50 LIB 203

Acknowledgements: I would like to thank our ESOL student contributors, ESOL faculty, and Pam Clarke and Designs in Print intern Jason Watson for their collaboration and assistance. Copyrights@2009: Lone Star College-Kingwood is the copyright holder of the materials in the Diversity. Any use of the materials in this newsletter is only allowed with permission from Lone Star College-Kingwood.

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