Diversity The Intensive English Program Newsletter Volume 7, No. 1, Spring 2008

Editor’s Note: Contents Lone Star College–Kingwood Intensive English Program (ESL) was founded in August 2001 to help immigrant and international students living in the community to learn and improve their Why I Study English English. One of the goals of the ESL Program is to promote intercultural understanding and ...... 1 diversity on campus and in the community. Diversity: The LSC–Kingwood ESL Student Newslet- ter plays an important role towards this goal. This issue of the Diversity has several themes: Why I When I First Arrived Study English; When I First Arrived in the U.S.; My Life in the U.S.; Cultural Differences; What in the U.S. I Miss About My Country; My Favorite Things; What Inspires Me; My Best Vacation; and This I Believe, inspired by a program of the same title on National Public Radio. I hope you will enjoy ...... 2 reading these great stories. If you have any comments about the newsletter, please e-mail Masoud My Life in the U.S. Shafiei at [email protected]...... 3 Copyright 2008: Lone Star College–Kingwood is the copyright holder of the materials in Diversity. Any use of the materials in this newsletter is only allowed with permission from LSC–Kingwood. What I Miss About My Country Why I Study English ...... 6 Ariadna Contreras, Mexico, High Beginning Oral Communication Studying English for me means to have the best opportunity to travel and find a good job. Nowadays, Cultural Differences many people from around the world feel the need to learn more than one language, besides that of ...... 8 their native one. Speaking English is an alternative to knowing the world, meeting interesting people, visiting new places and getting to know about other incredible cultures. This is the reason why I study My Favorite Thing English...... 10 Olga Elena Naohban, Romania, High Beginning Oral Communication I attend English classes at a language program in Kingwood College. I want to improve my commu- What Inspires Me nication skills. In class, we study different subjects including reading, writing, listening, speaking and grammar. To learn to speak English requires effort, patience, and practice...... 12 I think it is good that we continue to speak English after class, too. If we practice what we learned at school, it is easier to adjust to a new culture. For this, we need to study more, to review, and to My Best Vacation practice everything we learned. I live in America and I have to learn to speak English in order to com- ...... 15 municate with other people Rene Montelongo, Mexico, High Beginning Oral Communication I Believe The reason I am a student of English is because in the USA it is necessary to speak English to have ...... 16 more job opportunities and to be able to communicate with other people. In my job, I speak a little English. My supervisor helps me speak it too. I think that my pronunciation gets better day after day. ESOL Schedule Juan Martin Martinez, Mexico, High Beginning Oral Communication Summer 2008 The first reason why I study English is because I live in the USA. After that, I would like to make my ...... 24 dreams come true like to become an AC Technician. Also, to help my children with their homework and to communicate with American people. If I learn English, I will get better living conditions for me and my wife. (Continued on page 5)

For more information, call 281-312-1578 or go to Kingwood.LoneStar.edu Diversity: The Intensive English Program Newsletter is published once a semester. When I First Arrived in the U.S.: Funny Cultural Stories

Cesar Nunez, Honduras A Funny Party Writing High Beginning Catia A.Vela, Mexico It was my first day of work at AAA Road Services. The manager Writing High Beginning of the company gave me the new time sheet. I was working at When I was engaged, my fiancé and I went to a friend's party and 1:00 a.m. in the night. I received an unknown call on my first day I didn't know how to speak English. One lady gave me a piece of work. I received the call and heard the voice of a woman. She of Jello and she made a sign with her body. I understood that she made a telephone call to me to talk with her. We talked all night wanted me to eat the Jello. Finally, I bit the Jello and she was sad. long until 7:00 a.m. the following day. I knew her well after that Then I asked my boyfriend what happened with the lady because conversation. My old friends were speaking with her and now she when I bit the Jello, she was sad and I didn't know why. He said, is my fiancé. We have been engaged for six months and we are "Catia, the lady only wanted you to see the Jello because she spent happy. a lot of time making a doll in the Jello, and now you destroyed her My Youngest Sister work." At that moment, I was very embarrassed. Carmen Grifaldo, Mexico Sonia Parada, El Salvador Writing High Beginning Writing High Beginning When I came to the United States with my family three years ago, When I first came to the United States I felt awkward because my youngest sister was 17 years old. She drank a lot of water all life was very different from where I used to live in El Salvador. I the time, so she went to the restroom many times. When we went was fourteen years old when I came to see my cousin. I went to some place, my oldest brother got mad at her because he had to the store and wanted to ask for a product and I did not know any stop many times because she needed to go to the restroom. We English. What was I going to do? Nobody asked and I got ner- went to Rodeo Houston and she asked my brother how to say, vous. It was so embarrassing, so I looked for someone that would "Where's the restroom?" in English. She looked for a policeman, understand me. I was looking for a person like me who could help and she asked for the restroom while she was dancing and started me find what I was looking for. When I found her standing there, I running because she needed to go to the restroom. The policeman got get nervous. I needed the name for the product that I needed. ran with her to the restroom. The policeman was scared. She con- tinued to drink a lot of water and she needed to stop many times, A Big Misunderstanding but she drove the car. My brother wasn't mad at her. Nadia Ortega, Mexico My Funny Story Writing High Beginning In March of 2003, I was in my house when my sister-in-law called Edgar Melara, El Salvador me. It was about 7:00 p.m. We were talking for a few minutes and Writing High Beginning she asked me if I knew someone who wanted to work with her One time I went to Deerbrook Mall to buy a pair of tennis shoes. and I offered my help, even though I didn't speak any English. The salesclerk spoke only English. I didn't understand the shoe Her job was in Bush Intercontinental Airport. She used to work sizes in English or the United States. I told him seven, but the guy for Hudson News. She was in charge of the sunglasses department. brought me a nine. We had a lot of trouble figuring out my cor- There were two people working there, my sister-in-law and a Viet- rect size, but I finally got my new tennis shoes in the correct size! namese lady. With my sister-in-law, I always spoke in Spanish and she usually translated everything. After a few weeks, the Vietnam- My First Baby ese lady and I tried to speak more and eventually we understood Ingrid Pichardo, Dominican Republic each other. After a few months we made a very good team. Once Writing High Beginning a month we used to have a visitor, the sunglasses seller. He was When I first came to the United States, I was pregnant with my an Italian guy. He was very friendly and talkative. But one day first child. I had a doctor's appointment for an ultra-sound at the his flight was late and the Vietnamese lady told me to go look hospital. I had to take the metro transportation. I lived in New for him. She told me the gate and all the information. I went to York City. In my country, metro transportation was different than get him. When I saw him, he told me, "hi," and he asked me, it is here because when I came to my stop in New York, I had to "How are you?" Of course, everything was ok. But when he asked press the button when my stop came, but I didn't know about me, "Did you miss me?" My answer was an aggressive "NO!!" I that. So when the bus began passing by the hospital, I started to thought he was asking me if I was missing. He got upset and he get scared because I didn't know anything about the street. Then I never tried to talk to me again. started shouting, "STOP," like I would normally do in my country to stop the bus. The male driver, along with the passengers, started Funny Story to get scared because they thought I was going in labor. Back Sandra Flores, Argentina then, I didn't know any English, but now I remember what they Writing High Beginning said. They said, "Relax, Mama, and breathe." They told me the When I arrived in the United States, the people waiting for me at bus driver was going to turn around and go back to the hospital. the airport wanted to take me to a Mexican restaurant. They are When I finally got to the hospital, the bus driver told the nurse to very friendly people and they wanted to make me feel welcome. get me a wheelchair because I was going through labor, but really, The hard question was when the waitress asked if I wanted corn I was only there for my ultra-sound appointment! or flour tortillas. I didn't understand what she said because in my country tortillas don't exist! All the people at the table and the waitress insisted and I could only answer, "I don't know how to talk about it." After a few minutes, everyone at the table laughed. This was my first experience in the United States and an embar- rassing time for me. § Page 2 My Life in the U.S. A Funny Thing in History How I Felt When I Came To the U.S. that Changed My Life for the First Time Patricia Garcia de Baxter, Mexico Mayra Garcia, Ecuador Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate Some years ago I came to the United States because my friend The first time I came to the U.S. was May 5th of 1990. It was a Vero Escobedo invited me to her birthday party. I didn't imagine holiday in Mexico and the U.S. First, I went to Mexico City and that this travel was going to change my life completely. It was then I flew to Los Angeles, California. I was nervous and excited a hot summer day and Vero and her family had been preparing because everything was new and so big; from the airplane you everything since very early that morning. The guests and some can see how big the city was. I loved the downtown area and the family started to arrive around 7:00 p.m. and the fun began. The size of the buildings. Everything went OK with Immigration; I party was great: delicious food, a lot of music and a moonwalk remembered my husband was so proud to show me his car when and a candy cotton machine for the kids. After the dinner I had a we went to the parking lot in the airport. During our ride to his lot of fun: I jumped with the kids in the moonwalk, I chatted with apartment he was showing me some parts of the city. My husband some friends who I hadn't seen for a long time and danced to the works in the airport so he was showing me everything. Something DJ's music. We stopped for a moment to sing Happy Birthday that I noticed was that not many people were walking. I saw lots and cut the cake. Vero cut the cake and I took some pieces for the of cars in the freeways, the traffic, long lines and of course hours people that were outside. There I was in the middle of strangers of waiting. Finally we arrived at my husband's apartment. In the giving them cake when the only one American man that was at garage he showed me a car, a big green Nova, as old as me from the party said something in English. Everybody started to laugh; I 1971. He said, "This is going to be your car". I loved it from that didn't understand because I just spoke Spanish, so Vero's dad ex- moment. It was just right for me, because I love big cars. You can plained to me: "He asked for you and said that he wants to know put 8 or 9 people inside. The only problem was that I didn't know you because he wants to marry you." Everybody was watching me, how to drive, but he taught me. Even though we had some fights, my face turned red and I felt embarrassed; at that moment the I finally learned. At the front door, he picked me up and car- man told me something that a friend of his translated for me: "He ried me inside. It was a little apartment for just for 1 person or a wants to invite you to lunch tomorrow." I didn't say anything and couple (us). It was so cute. I loved it. I went into the house to bring more cake for the rest of the people. Lots of things crossed my mind: "I don't know him, maybe he is How I Felt When I Came To the U.S. crazy or just wants to have fun with me for a little while, maybe he for the First Time is just joking." On my way back outside I found Vero's dad who told me that the man was serious, that he really wanted to get to Carlos Ruiz, Mexico know me and that he was a good person. So, my mind changed: Oral Communication Intermediate Mmm... It could be interesting know someone from this country, I born in the U. S., but I lived in Mexico from 1969 to 2003, Why not? I was single and I didn't have a boyfriend, so I accepted because my parents are Mexican natives. I moved back to the U. his invitation. The next morning there he was with a big bouquet S. five years ago. I came to the U. S. to work and to have better of flowers and his friend who had to show him the way to Vero's opportunities and a better quality of life for my wife and my two house. It was very funny that Vero and Alvaro had to translate children (one girl and one boy). The other reason that I came to everything that we wanted to say to each other. Robert and I had a this country is because my parents, sisters and brother live here in very hard time trying to communicate on our way to the restau- Humble and can help me if I need something or I'm in trouble. I rant, so we just looked at each other and smiled. At the restaurant graduated from Monterrey City in Computer Sciences at UANL the people spoke English and when I asked the waiter, "Do you (Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon ) and I worked for 13 speak Spanish?" he looked at me with big eyes and a surprised face years in a government company in Monterrey, too. I want to study answered me, "You don't speak English! Why did you come with and learn English, because I need to advance my career and have a him, you don't speak English and he doesn't speak Spanish!" He better job and salary to enjoy with my family. >>> helped us translate some things. During the lunch we found a very handy pen and some paper place mats. He wrote everything that My Life in the U.S.A. he wanted to tell me because even though I didn't understand Lesya M. Piamprasha, The Ukraine when he talked I could read. He invited me to different places Oral Communication Intermediate during my vacation and I had a lot of fun. After my trip, Robert It's morning, my favorite time of day in Kingwood. The city is and I communicated by e-mail, by telephone, and he traveled to waking up and I am too. I'm sitting in a small coffee shop and I'm Mexico several times until we got married. Now here we are, we thinking about my life in the U.S.A. I arrived in this country in have been married for three years; we have a beautiful daughter, a 2005. My family did not come with me. I was nervous and a little lot of plans in mind and a funny history to share with our family excited. Life in the U.S.A. is much different from my country, the and friends. Ukraine. Everything here is very convenient, especially going to the grocery store. I don't have to wait in line to buy food, drinks or necessities. I had to learn how to drive; in my country I only used public transportation. I started to study English at night. English is a difficult language and many times I was too tired to study. But I like to live here with my husband and my daughter. "Why do I like America?" American people are friendly and kind. I also like my house with a yard. I like the store here. And the weather here is much better than my country. Now, America is my second home, but I will never forget my country and my parents. Page 3 My Life in the U.S. My New Life in the United States My First Time in United States Claudia Patricia Losada, Colombia Martha Cristina Gomez, Bogotá, Colombia Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate In 2003 my life changed. I was living in Bogotá (Colombia). I It was great, we were living in Monterrey, Mexico, when my hus- was married and I was working as a nurse at a hospital. I was a band had to come to work in Chicago, Illinois. We were planning supervisor of an Intensive Care Unit. My husband was transferred on coming to the United States together. It was a good opportuni- from Colombia to the United States in January 2003, and I stayed ty because we hadn't taken a vacation since he arrived in Mexico. in Colombia. I didn't know that I was pregnant. I was alone in When we arrived at the airport we felt fine. We saw different cul- Colombia and my husband, here in Houston. I was very sad. In tures, and the people were very kind. We were there for about two March, I had to stop working because I had problems with my weeks and we tried to enjoy everything. The weather was very nice pregnancy. My husband decided to bring me to Houston, but my because it was summer time. My little daughters were very happy. visa wasn't ready. We received bad news about my pregnancy. My Some days while my husband was working, my daughters and I baby had a lot of congenital malformations and I had pre-clampsia walked close to the hotel. I was surprised that people didn't walk, (high blood pressure). My baby was born in September, two they just drove alone in their car. That was curious because in my months before the due date. country everybody walks, and it felt different. When we went Finally, we came to the United States in November 2003 and a downtown, I was surprised it was such beautiful city, its buildings, new life started for us. My son needed several surgeries. We had a Lake Michigan. I liked it very much, that we were there for two hard time. Now, my son is four years old, he is studying in pre-k-3 weekends in this wonderful place. We visited the Sears Tower, it at Deerwood Elementary School, and he is learning a lot of things. had a pretty view and we knew the real history about the fire from He is receiving Speech Therapy every week. He is so smart and the past. We went to the aquarium, museums, and we loved the healthy. I have a daughter, too, my little Sofia, she is 19 months Navy Pier. It was exciting for my daughters. We really enjoyed our old, she is lovely and so sweet and she is growing so fast. Right stay in Chicago, and I would like to go again. now, I am a housewife, mother and student. I am learning English to obtain my license as a nurse and work here. We have a lot of My Best "Little" Friend plans in this country. My family is the most important thing in Alicia E. Ruiz, Mexico my life and now I am so happy to be living in Houston. We are Oral Communication Intermediate working together to obtain a better life. Hi, I married 10 years ago and Carlos and I have two kids. Their names are Samantha and Carlos Eloy. They are so special in my Twins life. With them, I always learn something new. Now I would like Oscar Hernandez, Mexico to talk especially about Sami. She is eight years old and I think she Oral Communication Intermediate is very smart. Since Sami was a little girl she wanted to learn it all, When I came to the USA I thought I'd come for a year or two, she was always asking me, "Mom why, mom how...." ALWAYS!!! but I found a girl and I stayed here. After that I took my wife to And all day every day she speaks to people all the time. When I Mexico. We stayed over there for three months and we went to was pregnant for the second time, she was so happy because she many places over there. One year later we had a boy and we were would have a little brother. I remember when she saw me lift very happy. Three years later she told me that she was pregnant something heavy she said to me, "Don't do it mom because it and I was so happy, then she told me she was pregnant with twin could hurt my little brother." She was just three years old. She boys. That is fantastic. has always been watchful of me. Now Sami is in the third grade and Carlos Eloy her brother is in Pre-k3 at Jack Fields Elementary The United States School. Every day when she comes back from school, the first KimHout Lor, Cambodia thing that she says is: "How is Carlitos today?" She always tells Oral Communication Intermediate me how school was with all with details. We are so happy because I came to the United States with my family. The first day my each day she tells us good news about her classes. A few days husband went to work at the donut shop, I stayed with my father ago she came home so happy because her teacher chose her for a and my sister at home. It's in Cumberland. The next month I Buddy Behavior Program. started to learn English in ESL School. There is a great school with an awesome teacher. I can read and write better. I have a friend in the class. Her name is Calia Vela . She's from Mexico. She's very nice and friendly. She helps me with any questions when I don't understand.

Page 4 My Life in the U.S. An Ideal Friend My Life in the United States Carmen Serrano, Mexico City Deysi Claudio, El Salvador Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate I think an ideal friend should have many qualities. First, he must When I came here to the United States, I lived with my sisters. At give me expensive gifts and always travel with his friend. Second, first I missed my country, my mother, my father, and my friends. an ideal friend may solve my economic problems with money. But after two years, everything was fine. One day I went to a res- Third, he usually should be available when I need him. Also, he taurant with my sister, and before we ate we had a few drinks. My must be able to spend time at the shopping mall. Fourth, an ideal sister played a joke on me. She went to talk to the waiters and told friend will clean my apartment everyday and cook my favorite them it was my birthday. It was not true! I was surprised when food. Also, he can do my homework. When my car is broken, my I saw them around my table singing Happy Birthday. I like this friend has to fix the problem. If my house needs paint and other country, because I can be whatever I want to be, and nobody tells things, he must repair them. Sometimes, he would have a surprise me what to do. Now I have my own house, car and a good job. I party in my honor. Finally, he must speak well about me all the made a good decision coming here because I have a good life with time. These are the dreams for anybody, but the reality is very my family. hard. Today it is difficult to get an ideal friend, but it is even more difficult to find all these qualities in only one person. This person How You Felt When You First Came to the U.S. is unreal, but I need a friend like this. Gilbert Diaz, Mexico My Life in the U.S. Oral Communication Intermediate How I felt! I felt very sad because I missed my parents and my Gloria Elizabeth Pedraza, Mexico girlfriend. I came here for work and to save money. I love my Oral Communication Intermediate country. I think I'll go back soon and meet my parents and friends When I came to the U.S. it was fun. I came to live here when I again. § got married. I had never visited the U.S. I like to live in the U.S. Everything is different than in my country. In the U.S. there are many shopping centers, restaurants and many job opportunities with good salaries. I had a big problem because I didn't speak English. Sometimes, when I went to the stores people asked me something and I couldn't talk to them. Then I thought, if I am going to live in the U.S. I need to speak English to communicate with other people. The best option was go to school to study Eng- lish. Today I am in school studying English. My school has many different ESL programs. I like to go to school because I feel I am learning a lot. I know I need to improve my English pronuncia- tion and I need to study harder. It is really exciting to watch TV and understand the programs and I can talk with other people.

Why I Study English (Continued from page 1) Hugo Leonel Estrada, Guatemala High Beginning Oral Communication I study English because of my wife. She is American and she does not speak much Spanish. She helps me to learn English. I go to school because I need to communicate with my wife. Her family is also American and they do not speak Spanish. I need to commu- nicate with them as well. I am also starting a construction business and most of my costumers speak English. I will get more jobs and have more opportunities if I speak English better. I want to read and write in English. The school is close to my house. My wife motivates me to learn more English. She told me that she will be very happy when I learn English. §

Page 5 What I Miss Most About My Country What I Miss Most About My Country My Native Language Carmina Groskreutz, Guatemala Claudia Haemmerle, Austria Writing-Intermediate Writing-Intermediate Of course, not being in my motherland has been one of the most What I miss most about my country is my native language. difficult experiences of my life. I miss everything about Guatema- Sometimes it's hard for me to put my feelings into words when I la: my family, friends, food, the climate, traditions, etc., but what speak English. Also when I speak with Americans, it's sometimes I miss the most is its nature. I miss the unique view of Guatemala: hard to recognize their feelings. I always need my husband when the forests, volcanoes, rivers, walking to the mountains to breathe I talk to authorities because of my weak English. In Austria I fresh air and smell the coffee plants. loved to go into a coffee shop and listen to what the people at the I grew up in a small village surrounded by mountains and rivers. table next to me were talking about. Simple things, like asking for My cousins, sisters and I used to go to the river to swim everyday directions can be very difficult when your language skills are bad. after school; this was part of our day during our childhood. On To understand a movie up to 90% I have to watch it three times. Saturdays we used to walk miles to get to the mountains' peak. We To buy food can sometimes be difficult too. When I went to a did this for enjoyment. And the best part is that we could do this grocery store for the first time, I needed two hours for only fifteen kind of healthy activities for free. or twenty items. Once I had a serious conversation, but I couldn't express myself in the way I wanted to. The other person didn't un- derstand my opinion. I am very afraid that if my husband has an accident, I wouldn't understand what the doctors want to tell me because of my English. Once in a while, I am going to bed with a headache because of speaking and thinking in a foreign language. I like to recharge my batteries by talking to my family in Austria via Skype. It doesn't matter to whom or what about I'm speaking. It is always arduous for me when I don't speak in my native lan- guage. It is good for me to learn a second language, but sometimes I miss my native language very much. Diversity in My Country Yamile Pena, Colombia Writing-Intermediate What I really miss about my country are its views and climate. I have already lived out of my country, Colombia, for eight years. I have been living in the United States since 2005, and before that I lived in Costa Rica. In Colombia we do not have extreme climates like here. For example, in Bogotá all year the temperature is between 65F and 75F. If anyone wants another temperature, that person can travel by car for about three hours or less, and the Expressing Love and Care climate changes. It depends on which way he/she goes. If the per- son goes to the south, the temperature is more than 80F, but if the Sarai Pescador, Mexico person goes to the north, the temperature is less than 60F. We can Writing-Intermediate find rivers, plains and mountains, and different plantations like The biggest difference between my country and the U.S. is prob- coffee, cotton, potatoes, and varieties of flowers, roses, fruits and ably the way we express our love and care to other people. In vegetables. The people who live in different places are completely Mexico you greet people holding their hands and kissing their different, and of course the food, the way they dress, and the way cheeks but here you just hold hands. The people here in my they talk and their customs are also diverse. opinion are much colder, and that doesn't mean that they are bad, but it is different in many ways coming from a culture where Blanca G. Moreno, Colombia that's the correct thing to do. Here in the US, people have to call Oral Communication - High Intermediate before they go for a visit, and that for me is so weird. In Mexico I have been living in this country for many years, but I still miss you don't have to call in advance; as a friend or part of the family my family and friends from my country. Being here I have found you are welcome to come to our house as often as you want. I very good opportunities for my career, and I have met many think that's part of the love and caring we feel for each other. Our special people, but I am still missing the people from my country. house is always open for guests. On the other hand, I understand Why? Probably because they were good examples for me for how that with the busy life here people are trying to save their time I should live my life, and they gave me good advice. I remember for other kinds of things. All these differences don't matter a lot each special occasion when we met and enjoyed the life in a very for me anymore because I am starting to adapt myself to this new good way, such as the parties at a friend's house where we danced culture . until 4 a.m. The girls did not use to drink a lot, only soft drinks with some liquor. Our parents taught us the real values of life about being responsible, respectful, and showing good manners with our elders, teachers, and superiors. These are some reasons for missing my relatives, my friends, and my country. >>>

Page 6 What I Miss Most About My Country Fany Castillo, El Salvador Miguel A. Morales, Venezuela Oral Communication - High Intermediate Oral Communication - High Intermediate When I decided to come to the United States, I'd never thought This is a very good question. When talking with people about how much I would miss my country El Salvador and my old this topic, everybody expects “...my family” as an answer, but life there. There are times when I close my eyes, and picture my that is not what I miss the most. With the actual technology, I family, my friends, my people. When I do that, I feel a deep pain can have a video-conference with my family anytime I want at inside of me. Over there in my country people don't care about no or very low cost. In addition, all my relatives are making a the color of your skin, no body calls me “Latina,” and won't look line waiting to come and visit me. So I have guests almost all year at me as if I am a third class citizen. I moved to the United States long. At this time your question could be: “If it's not the fam- because in my country there are not too many job opportunities. ily, then what is it?” I was born in Caracas which is the capital of I dream that one day I will feel part of this country. That day I Venezuela, located 45 minutes ago from the Caribbean Sea. To won't miss my country as much as today. make a long story short, what I miss the most from my country are the beaches. When I was a baby, my parents had a house in My Parents Chichirivichi, this place being considered one of the most beauti- Zhiling Liang ( Janice), China ful beaches in my country. The house was right in front of the sea. Writing-Intermediate Between the house and the sea there were only 20 yards of soft I have lived in the United States for 3 years. What I miss the most sand. My parents used to go to Chichirivichi every weekend, so if about my country are my parents and my friends. My father is I say my first steps where in the sand, I'm not lying. At the age of very talkative and kind. He is always curious about my life and 7, I was driving a small boat and fishing by my own with my little wants to help me in many ways, and he likes to help other people brother. When I was 13 years old, my father decided to buy a new too. He thinks education is very important, so in the past he house on a different beach and sold the one in Chichirivichi. It always encouraged me to do well in school. My mother is less was when we started going to Paparo, a nice beach neighborhood talkative than my father, but she is also very kind. I liked all the two hours away from Caracas. Unlike Chichirivichi, our new dishes that she cooked. In addition to my parents, I also miss my house wasn't in front of the sea, but it was in that place where I friends that I grew up with. We would go to BBQ parties, go to met most of my actual best friends. Pararo beach is not as beauti- the beach, go shopping or go dancing on our holidays. We had a ful as Chichirivichi, but the party environment day and night lot of happy memories. We still keep in touch through e-mail or made that place magic for the teenager I was then. I grew up going MSN, but it's not the same as seeing each other. I have missed my to the beach every weekend. I learned all kind of water sports like parents and my friends so much since I moved to Houston. fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, water ski, sailing, boating, swim- ming, etc, and that was what I did until five years ago when I de- The View cided to move to Houston in pursuing better opportunities for my Kwan Leung, Hong Kong wife and two little kids. Unfortunately, there are not good beaches Writing-Intermediate in the Houston area. The nearest one I have found is Destin Beach The things that I miss the most about my country are my family in Florida which is eight hours away. This is why I go to Venezuela and the beautiful view of the tall buildings. My family stays in on vacation every other year, to spend as much time as possible at Hong Kong for work, while I had to leave them and come to the the sea and enjoy looking at my kids doing the same things I used USA to study. I miss them so much and I can only see them once to do long time ago. § a year or some time once in two years. Sometimes I'm very sad that I'm by myself at home; it is too boring to stay by yourself, and there is nothing to do. In Hong Kong, we live in a tall build- ing. We live on the 22nd floor, when we look down to the street everything is so small, and we can see pretty much the whole city from our apartment. It is the most relaxing view I have ever seen.

Page 7 Cultural Differences

Ali Saab, Venezuela About six percent of the people are Christian. We have two Eids Reading and Vocabulary Intermediate (a Muslim religious holiday) during the year. The first Eid comes The culture of Venezuela is totally different with that of the after Ramadan and the other after two months. And this Eid is United States, especially that here people like to eat snack food, a very beautiful day. Also, in Jordan, the relationships between compared to Venezuela. There, they do not like snack food so people are very strong and we are always visiting each other. In much. Also, in the United States, the laws are fulfilled, since the my country the streets are not organized in the small towns and American people respect the laws. In Venezuela the people do not people don't pay attention to the traffic signs. And most people respect the laws. For instance, they do not stop at the stop signs, don't think time is that important like here in the U.S. When and they do not respect the traffic signs. I am charmed with this people visit family and friends, tea, Turkish-style or Arabic-style experience in this country. It is totally different than my country, coffee, or fruit juice is served. Often this meal includes sweets, but it is little difficult to adapt to this culture. especially on holidays. The national main dish is Mansaf, which consists of lamb cooked in dried yogurt and served with seasoned Yasmin Leon, Venezuela rice on flat bread. Mansaf is always served on holidays and special Reading and Vocabulary Intermediate family occasions, such as visits to relatives or friends, engagements, An important cultural difference between the United States and and weddings. Venezuela is that here children leave home when they finish high Dina Acevedo, El Salvador school. They are going to prepare to go to the university or to live alone. American parents prepare their children to leave the house. Reading and Vocabulary Intermediate In Venezuela the children don’t leave the home when they finish In my country El Salvador, to talk about Holy Week is to remem- school. It is usual that they leave the parents' house only when ber and celebrate the death and resurrection of God. Celebrating they are going to marry. In Venezuela children also go to the uni- Holy Week or 'The Main Week' every year is an important part versity, but they don’t leave the parents' house. Also, it is common of our culture. Sometimes it is celebrated during the last week of in Venezuela that if the children never marry, they can stay with March or the first week of April. Every day of this week begin- their parents forever. For example, my father has three cousins in ning on Monday and finishing on Sunday, the churches carry the same family. They never married, and they stayed with their out many activities, but the most important and popular are the parents. Today their parents are old and they are old, too, and they processions every night that represent the suffering of God. Very all live together. early every day the people divide themselves between groups for doing the banners that are made of sawdust, salt and paint. Elena Patterson, Russia Each group makes different banners that focus on holy images. Reading and Vocabulary Intermediate These banners are made on the streets where the procession will The main cultural difference between the U.S. and Russia is of pass. There is also a special menu for this week; the typical dish course the language. It is really rich, and there are lots of ways is fried fish covered with eggs, and it is served with fried rice and you can say things. The other difference is the food. It is similar corn tortillas, and you cannot miss the desserts. The two most in some ways, but in the U.S. they don't eat caviar, and we grow popular in each home are sweet bread and sweet canned mango. more natural foods in Russia, like fruits and vegetables. One of This is one of the most important cultural events in my country. the other differences is that we don't always use pills for healing Whereas here in the U.S. everything is different, since I came here, ourselves because we use herbal healing techniques. Also, we have I have never seen the American people celebrate Holy Week. The different meanings in our fairy tales. Some have similar meanings calendar just mentions Good Friday and that's it. Here the people here in the U.S. do not remember the death and resurrection of God, but I do not blame them because I think it is because they are most worried in Rima Alhuseinat, Jordan working more every day. The people do not have enough time to Reading and Vocabulary Intermediate think about celebrating each holiday because this is a very stressful The culture in my country is very different than the U.S. The first lifestyle in the U.S. For these reasons, while in my country the last difference is the language: Americans do everything in English, Sunday on Holy Week we call 'Sunday of Resurrection' here in the but in my country they do some things in English and Arabic. For U.S. it is called 'Easter Day.' They celebrate this day in a different example, the language of work is English. Another difference is way, but the children are the special focus as they hunt for eggs our religion. The state religion is Muslim, as indicated in the con- that have been hiding in the yard or in the trees. America's culture stitution. Ninety percent of the population adheres to the Sunni is totally different from mine. However, I respect its culture be- branch. Islamic law forbids eating pork and drinking alcohol. cause each country has its own and must be understood. §

Page 8 My Favorite Thing My Favorite Thing Music Carolina Penaranda, Venezuela Esperanza Flores, Mexico Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate I would like to tell you about my favorite thing. I love to travel I have a lot of things that I really enjoy that make me happy. around Venezuela. When I am in a new city, I first go to the visi- The thing I like to do everyday is to listen to music. The music tor's center of that city and take maps of the city. I love to walk by makes me feel happy in the morning when I turn the radio on. I downtown. I like to visit museums, parks, a zoo, a beach, amuse- play some music and it makes me energetic. When I drive to my ment parks, beautiful old churches, and traditional places of the school, I still listen to music. When I exercise in my house, I play city. I like to go hiking or just relax on the beach. I love to taste very upbeat music and it makes me move faster. It gives me more the special foods of that city. I like to take buses and learn the energy, and I sweat a lot, but I'm not tired. When I feel very tired, principal roads of the city. I hate to take taxis or rent a car. But if I put hot water in the Jacuzzi and play some slow music to make the city is large, I prefer to rent a car. I can stay in a cheap hotel me relax. I love to do this. I feel sad or sometimes I want to be or youth hostel. In a cheap hotel, you may be treated to a home- by myself. I listen to the music and enjoy it. When I get ready to cooked breakfast. I love to go shopping and buy souvenirs from go to the club, I play music in my room. I fix my hair, put on my that city. I love to take a lot of pictures with my camera. I went to makeup, and dress nicely. Merida, San Cristobal, Puerto la Cruz, Margarita, Morocoy, Me- danos de Coro, Maracaibo, Valencia, Caracas, etc. I love to travel My Best Treasures Are My Pictures around Venezuela very much because it is very nice and Venezuela Tania Lizbeth Pinedo, Jalisco, Mexico is a wonderful country in South America! Oral Communication Intermediate My Most Exciting Sports Event My best treasures and favorite things are my pictures. I love my pictures because they are photographs of my complete life. From Susanne Voges, Germany the time I was a child until today, I felt different emotions when Oral Communication Intermediate I looked at my pictures. My pictures remind me of all the good My most exciting sports event was the world's championship in times and my most special moments. The best part is when I look the summer 2006 in Germany. It was the quarter finals. Germany at my photos because they make me feel like I returned to the mo- played Argentina. My oldest son Tim and I and another fam- ment. It is my hobby to take photographs of different moments ily drove on a warm sunny day to a little town near our village. with the people that I love, such as my friends, family and teach- We went to a Park. In the Park there was a big screen and many ers. I enjoy seeing my pictures. If I am ever in an emergency and people looked at the screen. The people were sitting on the grass need to take valuable possessions, I will take my pictures because and drinking beer or wine and waiting for the beginning of the they are the most important thing to me. My favorite picture is soccer game. My son and his friend had a big German flag. It was my beautiful, small town in Mexico. This picture reminds me of a very good to cheer in the park. The game was very exciting. They my life. Sometimes I feel sad when I look at the picture because I played overtime and then took a penalty. The whole park was so miss my life in Mexico. But the most important thing is now I am quiet. My knees were very shaky. It was louder when the German so happy at Kingwood College. I like to study English, and I enjoy soccer player kicked a goal. Then it came to the end. Germany my classes, teachers and classmates. won against Argentina 5:3 after a penalty kick. We all were so happy about that, and the cars in the streets sounded the horns. It My Car was an exciting sports event and we had a lot of fun. Sergio Martinez, Mexico I like to Impress my Family Oral Communication Intermediate My most favorite thing is my car. I like my car because I can go through the Stomach everywhere I want. I like my car because it is black, and that is Veronica Manzano, Mexico my favorite color. I like my car because it is very spacious. I like Oral Communication Intermediate my car because it is fast. I like my car because it is the car I always When I like to impress my family, I make a flan cake. This deli- wanted. cious dessert is perfect. I am sure when they taste it, they love it. The first thing I need to do is to buy these ingredients: 6 eggs, one My Favorite Restaurant bar of cream cheese, one can of condensed milk, evaporated milk, Zhiling Liang( Janice), China two tablespoons of vanilla, a chocolate or pecan flour mix box, Oral Communication Intermediate and small bottle of cajeta. After I collect all ingredients, I need to My favorite restaurant is called The Ginger Cafè. It is located in heat the oven to 190c. The next step is to spread half of the mold Humble. It is very convenient because it is close to my house. with butter and the other half with cajeta. Prepare the flour mix I just need 7 minutes to drive there. It serves Chinese food and according to the instructions on the back of the flour mix box. Japanese food. It is not very big, but it is always busy. It has a nice Then mix all other ingredients in the blender. After doing this, put atmosphere and friendly service. We know all the waiters, wait- the two mixtures together in the mold and cover it with alumi- ress and chefs. We like the decorations. There are some beautiful num foil. Cook in double boiler for about one hour and fifteen pictures on the wall. There are some Japanese porcelain, beer, and minutes. After this time, I can check the cake by inserting a knife sake in the sushi bar. We love sitting at the sushi bar, watching TV, into the center of the cake. If I do not see anything sticking to the eating sushi, or drinking sake. Sometimes we talk about something knife, it will indicate that the cake is ready. Finally, I put it into funny with the sushi chefs. One of the sushi chefs is the owner, the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. When my family is at the and he orders fresh fish and fresh food every two days. Their food table, I surprise them with a slice of this delicious flan cake. is excellent. We always enjoy our meals at The Ginger Cafè. >>>

Page 9 My Favorite Thing My Favorite Time to Spend My Wonderful Family Ovi Yoc, Guatemala. Nora Funes, Honduras Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate I love to spend time with my family. We don't have a lot of time My family is the most important thing to me. I enjoy being with to spend, but when we are together, it is lovely. My family and I them. We do many things together like: going to the movies and have a busy life because we work a lot. For example, I don't get the park, because my son plays baseball and my daughter plays home until 7:00pm, and this is everyday. My brothers also work volleyball. I think my family is great. I have five children: Margie very much, but they did not stop until 11:00pm. That happens is 20 years old, Alex is 17 years old, Stephanie is 15 years old, Julie everyday. I guess this is for now because they are going to change is 8 years old, and Jafet is 5 years old. He's the baby of the family jobs! That's the reason that I call this my favorite time, because and of the house. For this reason, my family is very important to when we have a day off at the same time, we spend it very well. me. I give everything for my family. I have a good, hard working Of course we enjoy ourselves. Also, I like to cook for them, and husband and he provides everything for us. I'm so glad that I have they love that because they eat all the time where they work. If I a great, healthy family. I always say thanks to God everyday for cook, they feel very happy! That is why I call this my favorite time, giving me this beautiful family. because we enjoy the time together. My Vacation in California My Great Family Isis Minerva Vasquez, Honduras Gabriela Lopez, Argentina Oral Communication Intermediate Oral Communication Intermediate Last summer while all my friends were having a good time on I would like to talk about my family. I'm married and I have three their vacation, I was bored. So I decided to go to California and beautiful kids, Yovan who is 7 years old, Joel who is 5, and the have a wonderful vacation. I talked to one of my aunts who lives little one, Melissa, who is 2 years old. I like to spend time with in Oakland. I took an airplane and after four hours of travel, I family everyday. My family is the most important part of my life. arrived. First, I went to my other relatives' homes, but to my sur- Everyday is a new experience with my family. Every weekend we prise all the people there were working. I spent almost the whole like to go out, we like to visit different places in the city, we like to week at home all the time. When Friday came, one of my cousins go to the parks, and sometimes we go to the beach. On vacation, invited me to go to San Francisco, a beautiful city, on the Pacific we go to Miami to visit my sister. My children enjoy when we go coastline. We spent the whole afternoon in the city having a good to Disney World, and we always enjoy being together. When I feel time. The next day, I stayed home again. I was so disappointed really bad, my kids cheer me up. My husband is a police officer because I traveled almost two thousand miles to have a diversion and a very special person to me. He is intelligent and responsible; and night life. I saw that my plans were the worst that I had ever he loves his work, and is always able to help people. I'm happy made. The next week, I decided to go to Los Angeles to see my with my family, thanks to God for finding a beautiful husband, grandfather, but I never imagined how hard it would be to live and he gave me three great children. I always dreamed of having a with him. He is a man who has a long list of rules. Fortunately family and I am so happy because God gave me a great family. my best friend was visiting her family in Los Angeles, too. I went with her to take a walk to the shore, and we spent the afternoon My Life in the United States together. The next few days were long and full of boredom. I felt Daniela Mocofan, Romania like I was going to die. I did not want to stay there for one more Oral Communication Intermediate day. I just wanted come back to Houston and prepare all my stuff I am an ESL student at Lone Star Kingwood College. I arrived to go to classes again. in Houston 4 months ago. I came from Bucuresti, the capital of Romania. I had not traveled out of my country before I arrived Shopping is my Favorite Thing here .My life in the U.S. is interesting and a little difficult. It is Karina Soto, Mexico a little difficult for me because I did not speak English. I wanted Oral Communication Intermediate to learn English because it is important to me to speak correctly. I really enjoy going shopping with my daughter, especially when I had more opportunities for a better job and life. In Houston, I the stores have sales. I choose sales because they are convenient for live with my husband, my daughter, and my dog. My husband me. I like to save money when I go shopping. Sometimes I spend and my daughter started to speak English after I arrived in U.S. hours trying to find clothes or shoes for me and my daughter. My family was helpful and supportive. I understand but do not The reason is that I don't want to buy it if I am not going to wear speak English. I have some new friends, and my English is getting it. Sometimes I pick out a lot of clothes, and I try them all on. I better everyday. When I arrived here, everything was so exciting. only get the ones I really like, or sometimes I don't get anything. I There were lots of people and places that were different from my remember one time when my boyfriend and I went shopping, and country. During the first week in the U.S., my husband went with I spent around four hours in the store looking for a party dress. I me and my daughter to visit the Downtown Aquarium. It was finally found one. I was fixing to pay, when I told the cashier that beautiful. I like my life in Houston. Moving to U.S. has changed I decided not to buy it. My boyfriend was upset with me, and the my life, but it won't change my love for my country. Also, I wish cashier didn't look so happy either. I was embarrassed, but that's for me and my family a good life in my new country. the way I am. After that, I never went with my boyfriend again. I only take my daughter with me, and she enjoys it. >>>

Page 10 My Favorite Thing Taking Care of my Family that I wanted to live there. That's it! I wanted stay in London and Taew Primeaux, Thailand live in London! Then I needed to go back to my country, get my visa and return to London. I went back to my country after one Oral Communication Intermediate month, went to an agency, and wrote a letter to become an au In my life, I have so many favorite things. I like to walk in the pair. I tried to get a visa two times, but I did not get a visa because park, go shopping, and sew, but most of all, I like being a house- I had already been in London. Then I wrote a letter to be an au wife. I am married to my husband, Russell. I have one son, and pair in America. It was so easy getting a visa for one year for the he is eighteen years old. He goes to Kingwood High School. In United States. I found a host family, and on September 10th last the morning, I get up at four o'clock every day. My husband goes year I moved to America! I have lived in America for five months, to work early in the morning. I make coffee, cook breakfast, and and I am happy! That is it! That is what was missing in my life. make lunches, and after everyone goes to work and school, I have Travel, studying about a new country, and new culture, and meet- a little time for myself in the morning. After that, I get my house ing new people. Who knows? Maybe next year I will go to Asia, clean, do laundry, and go grocery shopping. At three o'clock, I Australia, or Africa! begin cooking dinner for my family. These are my everyday activi- ties. Now that I am taking an ESOL class in the morning, I have My Favorite Thing to Do to make sure that my time fits my schedule and goes smoothly. Carmina Groskreutz, Guatemala People say a housewife's job is never done until you go to bed. That saying has proved to be true. I am a hard worker and always Oral Communication Intermediate will be. My husband has an eighty-six year old mother, and she My favorite thing to do is to exercise. I believe that regular exercise can't cook for herself anymore. We call and ask her what she wants can improve your health and also your looks. When you run, to eat, and whatever she is hungry for is what she always gets. I bicycle, or do other aerobic activities regularly, your heart becomes have always enjoyed doing things for those that can't do them for stronger and your breathing improves. You also have more energy. themselves. That is the way my parents raised me as a child. We Also, muscles that are working burn more fat and calories, you were taught to have respect for the elderly and always to do the lose weight and look slimmer. Your muscles became firm and you right thing when it came to family. This is my most favorite thing seem more youthful and energetic. Because you look better, you to do. also feel great about your body and about yourself. And above all, your self-esteem increases. With all these benefits of regular I Miss My Country exercise, it is hard to understand why someone would not work Carolyn Mikhael, Syria out. If you exercise regularly, your body and mind will appreciate your physical improvements. I do exercise religiously because I am Oral Communication Intermediate convinced that it will have a priceless benefit for me in the future. I miss my childhood town and my old friends. Also, I like to visit my high school , and I love the weather. Damascus is the oldest Ana Isabel Linan, Colombia inhabited city in history. There is a special feeling when I walk Oral Communication Intermediate through the old town. I miss my family, particularly when I am The thing I enjoy most in my life is my family because every day sick or sad, but here the future is better for my kids than in my I receive a hug and a kiss from them. When my kids bring a good country. grade from school, I feel proud of them and I think I am doing Something Missing a good job as a mom. When my family is happy, that makes me happy, too. I enjoy watching a good movie, and going to my Zana Balog, Croatia English class. I like to listen to music because I can think about Oral Communication Intermediate myself and identify myself and learn more about things. I learn My name is Zana Balog, and I was born 9.19.1985 in Croatia, a lot when I am sad because I have a happy family. I identify a a small city in Pozega. I live with my family, my mother, father, good friend when they say positive words to me and try to cheer sister and brother. I had many friends, and I owned an apartment me up. § and a car, had a job, and a very good life, but something was missing in my life. I am a very lively and courageous person. After high school, I decided to try everything in life, a different job, a different way of life, and I was happy, but again something was missing in my life. Last year I went to London. I have a cousin in London. I had been in London for one month when I decided

Page 11 What Inspires Me My Own Daughter Inspires Me The Person who I Admire Jette Henneberg, Denmark Maria Flores, Mexico Writing High Intermediate Writing High Intermediate The person who inspires me is my own daughter. My daughter is The person who I admire a lot is Josefina. Josefina is my hero. She only 17 years old and studies at a Danish gymnasium. She isn't was born in a little town close to Morelia. Josefina is the third of satisfied if she isn't getting an A in her classes. She lives on her six siblings. Josefina spent her adolescence with her parents in this own in our house in Denmark and has no car. She is a very strong little town. The little town, where she ran when she was a little person mentally and wants to stand up for other people's wellbe- girl, is beautiful with many high, green hills around it. Josefina is ing in the world, so politics is something that interests her very my favorite hero for many reasons. The reason why I admire Jo- much. My daughter has always been reading a lot. She reads about sefina is because she is a very religious person. She prays everyday politics which she is very much involved in. She was only 15 years before starting her activities. She goes to the church everyday after old when she made her first speech about politics at a meeting finishing her work. She always taught religion to her children even where other important politicians also spoke. Recently she was when she was fatigued. Also, she had time for others, like the sick elected president for Democratic youth in two local municipali- people in her community. When she visited these people, she gave ties. She goes to a lot of meetings and once a year there is a meet- them food and prayed with them. In addition, she taught them ing over Easter where they study politics and listen to many real the Bible. She is very strong in her faith because she lost one of her politicians. During our latest election she helped out nearly every children last year, and she never lost her faith in God. She suffered day for three weeks. She was out to convince people to vote for the over three years with her sick child because her child spent most Democratic Party and she was also on the news for a few minutes of the time in the hospital. But she never lost her faith. In conclu- to talk to young voters. Now I'm more relaxed about the fact she sion, Josefina is my hero because she is strong and charismatic. lives alone because she has shown us that she can do it. It isn't very For me, she is also the happiest person I know because she always often that you see young people interested in politics, but she can smiles even when she has problems. Finally, Josefina is my hero talk about it for hours and how we can help people, global warm- because she is my mother. I love her so much, and she will always ing and stopping the wars. I admire her courage and her fighting stay in my heart. for other people's rights. This inspires me to pay more attention to what happens in politics and how to fight back if something is Resio S. Moses against me. Anna Panuelo, Pohnpei State, Micronesia Pope John Paul Writing High Intermediate Resio S. Moses, a four year term senator representing Pohnpei Diana Charcas, Mexico State, is one of the most important people in Pohnpei State. He Writing High Intermediate is an elderly man, who has dedicated his life to our country. He Someone that inspires me is John Paul II. He was born in Poland is a very intelligent and clever man. Also he is also helpful to the on May 18, 1920 and was the Pope from 1978-2005. He was people in Pohnpei and other people all around the four states in the Pope for 26 years, having one of the longest periods of time Micronesia. Many people in Pohnpei are very happy and feel a lot working as the Pope. He loved to meet people around the world of gratitude for this man, because he has done a lot of good for and he spoke about Jesus. He wished to be known in as many our country. He has held many important positions. For example, countries as possible and to teach about Jesus’ life. I have learned Senator Resio Moses served as a president of 1990 FSM Consti- something very important from him: we should forgive everyone tutional Convention and as a member of the Board of Directors even when they hurt our feelings or hurt us physically. One day, a of the Pacific Island Development Bank. Moses also served on the Turkish gunman tried to kill Pope John Paul, but he went to see Micronesian Commission on Future Political States, Chairman on him in jail and they talked for some time. People asked John Paul the Committee on Ways and Means of the Congress of Micronesia what had they been talking about, and he said that he forgave him and a Member of the House Committee on Judiciary and Govern- and he treated him as a brother. I never had the opportunity to mental Relations of the same Congress. Senator Moses has served know him, but when he was in Mexico I used to turn on my TV as the Permanent Representative of the Federated States of Micro- and watch him. He transmitted kindness and peace, and he was a nesia (FSM) to the United Nations. So he signed and expressed very hard working person. He fought to accomplish his last wishes the gratitude of the FSM Government for this historic occasion until his final days. Even though he was terribly sick and tired, he for our nation to move closer with the government of Belgium, an kept teaching God’s words and examples. important nation with the European Union. His personality has To conclude, John Paul’s life inspires me and encourages me to influenced my life because of the way he has represented our gov- keep going in my life even though sometimes it is hard. In my ernment. I am curious and intrigued about his career and how he opinion, when you do good things people will always remember has represented Pohnpei and the other three States of Micronesia. you. He taught me to be a hard working person and to fight to I want to do the same for our country, our small beautiful island succeed even in the hardest times. I learned to share what I have of Pohnpei. >>> with anyone who needs it and not to expect anything in return.

Page 12 What Inspires Me A Person that I Admire The Little Boy Whose Dream Came True Nohemi Lozano, Mexico Genoveva Arrasolo, Mexico Writing High Intermediate Writing High Intermediate Wherever I go, I remember my experience as a volunteer in the I met a little dreamer boy fifty-two years ago. He was full of Organization "Unidos lo Lograremos, A. C." This organization dreams and living in a fantasy world. However, he had a strong de- was created by Estela Villarreal. The main objective of this organi- sire to succeed in life. Therefore, he never gave up on his dreams. zation is to integrate people with special needs using recreational He was always persistent and worked hard to be the person that spaces to facilitate the interaction between disabled and non-dis- he wanted to be. He earned the respect of many people in his early abled youth. Estela for me is my inspiration because since she was age. His name is Cayetano Oyervidez, and I am honored to be a child, she has been fighting against society's ignorance. In her his sister. Right now, he is fifty-five years old, and he is everything childhood, her friends and family were scared to come over to her that he wanted to be. People seek and follow him for his services; house for fear of touching her handicapped brothers. As a result, however, his name is popular in a good way. He is a man of integ- she started to wonder why families and the society in general acted rity, and he is open, transparent, and humble. like that towards people with disabilities. Finally, in1987, Estela My brother is an accountant , which he accomplished through decided to start a small summer camp for disabled and non- much personal sacrifice. He is the second son of seven children. disabled teenagers. As a result, the camp was a success and marked He grew up in deep poverty; therefore, he started to work at a very the beginning of "Unidos lo Lograremos, A. C.". After, in 1995, early age. He was only nine years old when he volunteered to serve I decided to belong to this fantastic dream. My experience in the his neighbors by going to the store to get groceries for them, wa- summer camp of Unidos was wonderful. We used to share our tering the garden or feeding the chickens. Before going to school time with a disabled partner and spend half of the day with him or and graduating as an accountant, he was already doing that job her. I really learned a lot of from them, because they were natural, at his work. However, his education did not end with accounting honest, creative, and humble. We had very dynamic classes, such school. He became a university teacher and finally a lawyer. When as sports, art, dance, etc. I truly think that I had the opportunity I look at all he has done, I really admire him. Money did not stop to know a lot of angels here on Earth. Moreover, I am sure that I him from finishing his degree. At the present time, he is working learned a lot of from them. In conclusion, since that time, Estela for the courthouse in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. He is also Villarreal has been an inspiration in my life. I hope one day I a part-time teacher at the University in Monterrey. A few years could do something similar for society as she did. ago, when he graduated from law school, I remember my nephew My Father asked him, "how come you are still in school?" And "how old are you going to be when you finish?" He answered, "I love school, Chih-Yao Hsu, Taiwan and I will be the same age, with or without going to school, so Writing High Intermediate what is the difference?" I have seen people succeed in life before I think the person who inspired me a lot is my father. He is a very but never in the way my brother did. I will always be proud of solemn father. The person who always thinks about family first, Cayetano for being a hard worker, a big dreamer, and for never treats his friends as his real brothers and taught me many truths giving up whatever goal he has. He has really inspired my life in about treating and handling matters. He has a sense of strong many different ways. I admire, respect, and honor my brother; to responsibility and an aggressive attitude. I wish one day I could me, he is a valuable package, wrapped up in an inexpensive paper. be like him. Since I was little, I have only lived with my mom and sister. Because of several reasons, my father did not live with The Person I Admire us. He only came back twice a month. Sometimes, after he came Emma Cabanillas, Peru home, he cooked dinner for us. After that, he would help us clean Writing High Intermediate the house, especially the kitchen and the toilet with me. He said The person who I admire is my mother. She is like a candy, sweet that cleaning a kitchen and toilet is a man's thing. We should do it and comforting, soft like a cotton doll that you want to hug for the women. I agree with that. Before he left, he would tell me against your chest. She is like a pine tree, strong, straight, and to lock the door and make sure all the electricity was off before I tall with vigorous roots that support it very well. My mother is a went to sleep. He also told me that when he is not at home, I am successful warrior in the battle of life. When times were difficult the only man in our house. So I have a responsibility to protect for the family, she gave us the strength that we needed to continue my sister, my mom and this house. "I believe that you can do it and move on to the next step to find a better future. My mother because you are my son," he said. By that time, I was very happy is the most wonderful creation of God. She is loving and caring, when he said that to me, and I swore to myself that I would not not only for her family but for the people around her. For this and let him down. I remember one time when I was in high school, many others reasons she is one of the most important persons in my father's business was not going very well at that time. I told my life. >>> him if it was necessary, I could go to work. I will never forget what he told me: "No matter how hard it is, I can still handle it, and I will not let you go hungry." I cried after he said that to me. I could imagine he would do anything for us without thinking. Even though we did not live together and spend much time with each other, I still can feel his endless love. I will always remember what he has taught me and how he handled matters. I think a real man should be like him, have strong responsibility and an aggres- sive attitude. I hope that one day I will be just like him and make him very proud.

Page 13 What Inspires Me

My Fishing Friend Juan Manllo, Mexico Azuma Ishibe, Japan High Intermediate Writing Writing High Intermediate I had always been a person without hope for the future. I didn't have any plans for the future or any stability. I had problems My friend’s name is Takahiro Omori. He is a great fisherman. He with my own behavior. But suddenly, something extraordinary is 37 years old now. When he was 21 years old, he came to Amer- happened in my life: the birth of my first daughter. She is the ica. He has many achievements for fishing. His biggest achieve- one who inspires me for everything. For instance, I changed my ment was the 2004 bass master classic championship. When he motivation and the way I see my future. She inspires me to study won the championship, I was so excited and jealous because it is English, so I can finish my studies and give her a better life. She my dream. So he changed American bass fishing history. Takahiro inspires me to be kind, understanding, and respectful with others, Omori is the Japanese No. 1 fisherman now and American bass so I can teach her good manners and be her hero, one she would fishermen also admire his fishing skills. He always gives me inspi- admire when she grows up; therefore, she is the inspiration of my ration. I like his lifestyle and his fishing style. In the future I want life. to go to a big fishing tournament because it has so many great fishermen like Takahiro Omori. He gave me a big dream, show- Jesus Ortega, Mexico ing me that a Japanese fisherman can win the bass master classic High Intermediate Writing championship. The thing that inspires me the most in this life is learning Eng- An Inspiration lish very well because that is the language that is spoken in the United States of America, which is the country where I now live. Rubiel Rodriguez, Puerto Rico It inspires me a lot because if I get to speak and write this beauti- Writing High Intermediate ful language, I am going to be able to communicate with people My 20 year-old brother has been my greatest inspiration in my from other cultures and know about their religions, traditions, and life. He has muscular dystrophy. Irvin is very quiet among others, customs. I also want to learn English because I want to continue but around the family he is very intellectual and expressive. When my studies and get a degree so that I can improve my life. I'm doing sports, especially boxing, I get motivated to do it right because I pretend that I'm doing it for my brother and not for Ngoc Ngo, Vietnam myself. Often when I'm in training I wish he could be there with High Intermediate Writing me. Even though he is very weak, he will ask me to take him out The important thing that inspired me the most is all members of for a drink with my friends or go for a ride in my sport car. Even a family having dinner together. This was my dream when I was though he has that condition he pushes life to the fullest and is a child, and now it's still my dream. In my memory, my family always positive about things. If I were in his shoes, I don't think I never had such a dinner in which all of us spent time together. would be as strong as he is. Even a person with muscular dystro- My father was a problematical person. I didn't understand why he phy can be as strong or more than another person mentally or was so hard on everyone in our family. I thought that he lived in spirituality-wise. a feudal system before. In my family, he wanted everyone to obey or follow him, even though that was wrong. We could not explain Lucia Juarez, Mexico anything or share our ideas, even my mom. I still remember he High Intermediate Writing beat my mom and my brother. I was a witness. Sometimes I saw I have two angels at home and they inspire me every day. I don't my mom cry a lot, but I did not know how to console her because have time to get sad, stressed, or angry when they are by my side. at that moment, I was still a child. One day, he beat my mom, They inspire me to be a better person, a lovely mother, daughter, and once again, he threw mom out of the house. My mother and sister. When I have any kind of problem anywhere, I just could not stand it any longer, and she had decided to leave. My think about them and about the happy time that we always enjoy mom wanted to bring me and my younger brother with her. That together and all my problems go away. Those angels are my twins, was the thing we wanted, too, but we could not get permission and I think that I can't be without them because I would be dead from my father. That made my mom very upset. And that was without them. the saddest day in my life. I thought I must hate him so much, but I did not have that feeling. It was because I did not love him. Huong D. Congtangtonnu, Vietnam In spite of that, he is my father. I look like him in height and I Intermediate Writing also have his stubbornness and his temper. I have to learn the way I was very lucky to be born and to grow up in a family that was of forgiveness. I think the right attitude comes from the right not poor. My parents, my brother, and my sister took care of me understanding. When I visited my friends and had dinner with carefully. I always thought about poor people while I had the best their families, I could feel how happy they were. I often dreamed life and wanted to share with them my fortune. It’s interesting that that all the members of my family had a dinner like that, although I met a group of doctors and nurses from my country that did it only happened one time. And now, that is still my dream. What charity. I decided to join them in their charity work and travel to inspires me is my family, because I need to think forward. I study many poor cities to help people in need. I was affected when I saw everything what I can to finish my course to be near them, to help everybody with such a poor life, people who didn't have enough them in what I can.... >>> money to buy anything and poor children who could not go to school. I saw all of this in front of my eyes. I really enjoyed that, and I felt very happy giving a little bit of food, water, medicine, clothes, and toys to the poor children who were homeless and unhappy.

Page 14 What Inspires Me

Anhthu Jackson, Vietnam cities. I travel to many cities in South America. My role in these High Intermediate Writing cities is to assess programs and projects for public services for poor My mother is a person I always admire. She raised me to love people. My assistance is free; my only pay is a thank you, and I God, to care, and to be generous to other people. She inspires know my idea is going to create action and make me many friends me to work hard. She taught me how to be independent. She around the world. thinks about her family before herself. I try to be like her. I love God, I work hard, and I am independent. My goal is to make my Manuel Martinez , Mexico Mom proud of me. I hope one day I will be an inspiration for my High Intermediate Writing children. My family has been my inspiration since I was a little boy. I always have enjoyed being around my family because of the love we Luis G. Forero, Colombia have always been sharing with each other. They taught me many High Intermediate Writing valuable lessons that I have been using during my life and that I My inspiration is to help people in the world. I will give my time, have shared with my new family. Now my wife inspires me and experience and knowledge in public administration to volunteer the most important reason for me to be inspired is my daughter. for these people. Conas-net is a name of my company that helps When she was born I had never been so inspired by any presence in my life. My family is my inspiration. §

My Best Vacation

My Best Vacation About My Best Vacation Alaa Al Hisenat, Jordan Annie Trader, Colombia Writing High Beginning High Beginning Writing My best vacation was last year in my country. Last year, in the My best vacation was my Mother’s Day present in 2007. I went summer, I decided to go to Petra and Aqba. I went with a group to Las Vegas with my daughter. I think that vacation was the best from my country. I left home in the morning at 6:00am. We were vacation. We left Houston on a Wednesday around 11:00 p.m. We in Petra at 12:00am. When we arrived, we went to the hotel to eat had a beautiful time flying. I think the flight arrived there around and take a shower. The next day we got up very early. The road to 3:00 in the morning. We enjoyed registering at the Bellagio Hotel. Petra began with an early wake-up call at 6:30am and a 10 minute This hotel is the most elegant and beautiful hotel I have ever seen bus ride to the border where we walked across to Jordan in search in my life. Every night there is a beautiful water show with ro- of our Jordanian guide and driver. We went and saw the city. It mantic music in front of the hotel. On the other hand, Las Vegas was very nice but the weather was very hot. Petra had many effects is a very beautiful and clean city. Las Vegas has a lot of beautiful carved in stone and in color. Also the graves appeared to be ex- hotels. The most fascinating thing for me was that each hotel tremely perfect. The next day we left Petra and headed to Al-Aaqa- represents a different country, with decorations, food and clothes bah. This city is next to the sea. It is very beautiful. It has many for each nationality. People are very polite, and the traffic is very fish. When arrived at Aqabah, we rented a glass-bottom boat. We well organized. Las Vegas is a very romantic and family oriented went in the boat, and it was very interesting. At the end of the day, place. People used to get married there. I would like to go back to we caught fish and we ate the fish. The next day we were picked Las Vegas someday. § up early and went to Mottaghien Pearls House. Petra became one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This was my best vacation.

Page 15 I Believe

I Believe in the Importance of Experiences I Believe in Friendship in our Lives Nora P. Dominguez, Mexico Branka Fanjkutic, Italy Oral Communication High Intermediate Oral Communication High Intermediate One of the most beautiful things in life is friendship. I believe in I believe in the importance of experiences in our life. I would like friendship because it plays a very important role in our lives. I to compare my life to a house in construction. My childhood is think everything really begins in your childhood, when you start the foundation, and day by day, I am putting one brick upon the to play dolls with a friend of yours. Later, as you grow up, you other. I use this comparison to express better how important every meet friends who give you advice about fashion, clothing, hair- single experience is in our life. I believe that. One of my strongest styles, or social behavior. There are several kinds of friends, for experiences has been to move to the U.S. with my husband and example, your own relatives like your cousins and aunts, who are my 10-year-old son. My husband’s company moved him for the always very close to your life. You also have friends to whom you first time to another country. When we first came to Houston, I tell everything, the ones that understand you at all times. Or the felt worried, frightened and lonely. Today, after only five months, friend that spends the worst moment in your life beside you. And I feel happy with my family close by, more confident with the what about that friend that calls you the whole day, or the intel- language, and I have many new friends. This experience has made lectual one that teaches you so many things, or that friend that me stronger and has changed me in a positive way. Every day new seems to be your mom, because she just lives to give you advice? experiences face us which constantly contribute to our individual All of them remain in our memory, in our way of life, and in our knowledge. Every day we receive a new lesson, and then it depends pictures and our remembrances. Due to all this, and for many on us as to how we are going to use it. When I look at an elderly other reasons, I really believe in and miss all the friends that I have person, I can imagine how many experiences he has accumulated had throughout my life! during his lifetime. That is the reason that elderly people are I Believe in Education considered wise. I believe that everything that happens in our life, every single event, is extremely important because it is going to Thais Mendoza, Venezuela reflect somehow in our individuality. Collect as much experience Oral Communication High Intermediate as you can to become a person of wealth! I strongly believe in education. I think that education is a collec- tion of actions that takes place in each person. Education develops I Believe in the Power of God our intellectual ability, makes our opinions more objective and Lorena Lopez, Venezuela shapes our personality. With this, we can grow to be successful in both our career and in life in general. When I was a teenager my Oral Communication High Intermediate father often told me: 'Only with education, especially a university I have a lot of important things in my life: my family, friends, my education, can oneself really reach the personal potential to suc- country (Venezuela), my town (Punto Fijo), and my goals. How- cess." At that time I really didn't understand these words of my ever, the most important place in my life is occupied for God for father; however, I continued studying in high school and then I several reasons. He always has had the first place in my life. I know began a university career. After I obtained my degree I understood if my relation with Him is good, all other things are going to be how meaningful the words of my father actually were. I continued very good, too, because He has everything under control. to follow his advice by studying a specialization in my profes- When I came to this country, my life changed in all senses. First of sion and reaching a PhD that opened many doors to success in all, I was depressed all the time. I missed my old life, my parents, my work and my life. Now, I live in another country and am just my work, and my country. However, when I started to pray to learning a new culture and language. I feel these changes are good God, I felt His hand touching my hair, and I began to cry because for my life and work in the future. In addition, I know that my I knew He was next to me. I felt very excited, and for that reason faith in education will get me ahead in my new life here. Today, I cried. God has always filled that empty space in my life. I felt with my experience and strong faith, I am able to advise my chil- everything was different and new in this country for me. However, dren and encourage to them overcome the challenges of life face to I think everyone should have their own experience with Him, be- face with the education they are receiving. cause some people may think that I am crazy. Second, God always helps me to make the right choices. When I have to make a deci- sion, I talk to Him and I wait for Him, and He always helps me choose the correct answer, Since I have been living in Houston, I have learned to say thank you to God for everything, for each good or bad experience that I have. I have learned to value my parents, my country, and my whole life. I have learned to express my feelings and tell my parents and brothers that I love them. In conclusion, the only owner of my life is God. He has the power.

Page 16 I Believe

I Believe in Perseverance I Believe in Travel Marisol Miranda, Puerto Rico Sang (David) Ok, South Korea Oral Communication High Intermediate Oral Communication High Intermediate When life takes you by surprise and you don't know what to do, Why do you go to other countries? People might go to other there is only one way to respond, the way of perseverance. My countries to travel, study or work. I have traveled to 12 countries. husband and I had been married for seven years when our first I usually went there just to travel. However, I have also learned child was born. We were very happy. I had been in fertility treat- a lot about their cultures and their life. Sometimes I had culture ments for six months without results and had felt frustrated, so I shock and made mistakes. However, that has been very interesting had stopped them. One month later, God performed a miracle: and even fun. My first international travel was when I was 12 years I was pregnant. Everyone in the family celebrated the birth of old. I went to France for three months. My first day in France was Gabriel. We celebrated without imagining what the future had a big surprise for me. All the people looked different. My first time prepared for us. At the beginning, Gabriel didn't talk. He had a to talk with someone French was with my father's coworker. I said lot of difficulties in communicating. We were worried and asked 'Bonjour." He also said "Bonjour" and kissed my cheek. I was sur- for professional help. Here started a long list of evaluations and prised, but I thought he was just greeting me. However, that was therapies that lasted for two years. Above all, I decided to con- wrong. All French people kiss on the cheek when they exchange tinue, doing everything necessary to see him talking and learning. civilities. That was very different from my country. Korean people That was my goal. As a mother, I feel a big responsibility knowing bow to the person who is older. So I learned that they greet in a I'm the only person in his life who can help him reach his dreams. different way in France. I also traveled to Cambodia. I had some On December 2005, we heard the worst news of our life. Gabriel hard times and felt some stress, so I decided to go there on vaca- was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This news tion. However, when I went to Angkor Wat, I experienced culture changed our lives. Again, a big, new challenge was before me. shock. There were a lot of poor people. Many kids came up to me When life takes you by surprise and you don't know what to do, and said, 'Give me one dollar, one dollar." I always had traveled there is only one way, the way of perseverance. When you perse- to nations like France, England, Japan, etc. So, I never had seen vere with your goals, no matter what happens, you know you are poverty like this before. I saw many sad things. I heard that a lot doing the correct thing. Otherwise, if you stop in your way and of kids were orphans there. They had a civil war so a lot of people quit, you will never know how far you can reach. So I believe in had died. After I saw them, I thought my problems were just small perseverance. After we learned of Gabriel's diagnosis, we decided things. I thought I could conquer them. I think we can learn a to move from Puerto Rico to Texas. I left behind my old life. Now, lot of things from other countries, even within our own country. I have a new goal, Gabriel's happiness, and to do it, I need to I think I can't learn from all cultures and habits. However, I will persevere. keep trying to understand other cultures and learn from them. That was helpful to me, and it will also be helpful in my life. I will I Believe in... keep traveling just to travel and to study other cultures. Diana Isabel Rivera, Colombia I Believe in a Better World Oral Communication High Intermediate When the professor told us that we needed to write an essay Nora Miguel, Mexico about something, and she gave us one example about what do you Oral Communication High Intermediate believe in? I started to think about what I believed in. I did not I am very worried about pollution, deforestation, and the water have an answer. I did not know what I believed in. So I started waste that we cause every day. I believe that we can do a lot to to ask my class partners about what they believed in and they did save our planet, and we should start now. I do not know why the not have answer, either. But now I have an answer. I know in what governments are not taking this seriously because this is a big I believe. I believe in God. He never leaves me alone. He's my problem and can bring us serious consequences. We can start with faith. When I have dark moments in my life, and I think I have recycling. The government can make laws about this, so everybody no solution, God gives me direction and shows me the light in the must recycle or pay fines. When we start seeing the pollution darkness of indecision. I believe in my family. They are my sup- decrease, we will feel very proud and happy. The water is very port, my happiness and they are always there when I need them. important, too, maybe the most important. I wish that we would Their love is pure. They will always support me no matter what start to do something soon, so that we and future generations can the situation. My family is my life and my inspiration. And finally keep enjoying the planet. We know that this nation is very power- I believe in dreams. They are the motor that make people achieve ful, and if we do a good job, every nation, would like to do the their goals. They make you pursue something that you always same. I want to believe that one day the news will not report bad wanted. Don't miss out in life, and go after what you believe in. news about pollution or more animals in danger of extinction.

Page 17 I Believe

I Believe In a Life with Purpose I Believe in Reading Silvia Barrientos, El Salvador Claudia Angeles del Mar, Mexico Writing High Intermediate Oral Communication High Intermediate Have you ever asked yourself: why you are here? I do this all the People who believe in reading have many possibilities to be suc- time. Sometimes we are discouraged or angry with our lives for cessful in their lives. I learned this every night when my father many reasons. Maybe because we cannot do what we want or we read to me every single book that was in my house. He taught cannot find happiness. I believe we are not here by simple coinci- me the love for reading; books have taught me to have hope and dence. I believe in God, and I think He has a specific purpose for improve myself. Books are the proof of human thinking. Impor- everyone. When my father died I was very young, and I tried to tant scientists have to write everything that they discover. Writers obtain a student visa to come to study in the United States, but have to write on paper what they want to tell us. Artists have to I could not obtain it. In that moment I was very sad, but after I draw all the things that they want to express. All you want to see was able to understand that I had a purpose there in El Salvador. and anything you want to know about everything are in books. If I would not have been in my country maybe I would not have Books have been so important throughout time; there are many known my husband, and maybe I would not have had my ador- places around the world where you can find any kind of books, able sons. I believe if we do not have a purpose in life, it will be all that you can imagine. People have to dedicate a lot of time of without interest. I have thought that the different phases of my life their lives reading and learning for their education in order to be have each been marked with a purpose. When I was an adolescent successful. I believe that everyone should know the importance of I used to say, "When I am an adult, I will work in an important reading, and I don't want to lose any opportunity to read. company," and I did so in my country. In that moment all my efforts were focused in order to obtain my objective. After my I Believe in Friends purpose was have a great family, and I now have my husband and Daisy Ruano, Mexico sons. Two years ago my husband had the opportunity to come to Advanced Oral Communication work here. We were not sure what to do. Then I prayed to know The first time I came to the United States I lived with my grand- what the best decision was. And now we are here with a better parents. After one and a half years I made the decision to move life. I am always grateful for everything that I have obtained in my with a female friend and live on my own. Since then I have come life. I know with patience and effort we can get what we want. We to believe that friends play an important role in my life, because just need to ask why am I here? I am sure everyone has a purpose they listen to me; they help me and they take care of me. First, in life. Life is not always easy, but if you really want something, when I need to talk to someone, there is always one friend whom please do not give up. I can call. I remember one time when I felt really sad and it was I Believe in Life as it Comes 1 a.m. in the morning. I took a cell phone and called my friend Ramon. I told him how I was feeling and he listened to me until Veena Punj, India 3 a.m. Also, my friends are always helping me. There have been Oral Communication High Intermediate several times that I have been in situations that I did not have any I believe in life as it comes. Our life is not a bed of roses. There are idea what to do, but when I called one of my friends, he tried to many ups and downs in our life. Whatever we think will hap- help me. For example, one time when I was driving out of the pen never happens the exact same way. Man proposes but God parking lot, a car hit the front part of my car. I remember I was so disposes, as the saying goes. When I look back at my life, I am scared, and I did not know what to do. The first thing that came surprised to find that whenever I was doubtful about the outcome, to my mind was sending a message to my friend Carlos. I wrote to it turned out to be in my favor. I have a very lively and active ap- him what had happened. After 4 or 5 minutes, he called me and proach to life. Until today I have always been honest, dedicated, told me that I would have to calm down. Then, he said that if my and hard working. I used to participate in college and school car was fine it would be better if the person who hit my car and I activities enthusiastically. I started working at the age of nine- did not call the police. After talking with Carlos I felt a little bet- teen. I have always had a very positive approach to life. Whatever ter. I went to talk with the person who hit my car. I told the lady opportunities came my way, I have given them my full attention what Carlos told me, and she said that it was a good solution. The with dedication. We must make our weaknesses our strength. lady and I agreed that it would be better if we fixed the problem When a bad time comes, we feel weak but we must believe in our- ourselves. She fixed the car and everything went right. Finally, my selves. We must take a challenge to turn bad into good with our friends take care of me. My friends always want to know where I inner strength. Whatever has to happen will happen come what am, what I am doing, who I am with and some other questions may. No one can change it, but we should face it as it comes. This to be sure that I am fine. I remember onetime I met a guy, and is what I believe in. he asked me to go out. I told Francisco about it, and he asked me a lot of questions, like where did you meet him? How old is he? What is his name? Then he told me that if I made the decision to go out with the guy, I would have to be careful. My friends are important in my life because they always listen to me, help me and take care of me. >>>

Page 18 I Believe

I Believe in Simplicity This I Believe: Melanie Freyer, Germany Immigrants Can Lose their Identity Advanced Oral Communication When Becoming American I like proverbs because what they say is really true. One of my Thelma Cummock, Peru favorite proverbs is the German one: "Weniger ist mehr" which Advanced Oral Communication means "less is more." Maybe there is a similar proverb in the United States, but even if not, the fact that it is sometimes better Over the years many people of different nationalities have im- to leave things in a simple way than to overload them is as true migrated to America seeking better opportunities for themselves, here as in any other country of the world. So in some respects, I their families, and for generations to come. In the process of living really believe in simplicity. For example, I like to be in buildings many years in the United States, some people start to lose their or rooms with clear designs that are wide, bright and friendly. I national identity. They begin to adapt to American culture, they like simply designed furniture, like cubic bookshelves or sofas with learn the language, and become part of the society around them. straight backs and straight arm rests. I don't feel comfortable in a Twenty years ago, I came to America. When I came to the United room where the walls have different colors, or there are lots of pic- States I was only in my twenties. I am now married and I have tures, ornate furniture, fabric with different patterns, and in every four children. Over the years I have adapted to the culture, food space a decorative item. However, being in surroundings with a and eating customs, and a new way of life. While at first I only few pieces of furniture and some decorative items has, so to speak, knew Spanish, I have come to learn the English language until a calming effect on my mind. Also, your perception of a piece of it has become just another daily routine in my life. Now after all furniture or a vase of flowers might be different if there are not these years I only speak English and I typically associate with other a lot of other items which could detract from them. I also prefer people who also speak English. I can never go back to my native simplicity when I cook. For me, a dish tastes so much better with- country, for many reasons. I no longer feel comfortable with my out using precooked or premixed food, which is mostly seasoned native people; their customs, and even their behaviors now seem with artificial flavours. If you buy fresh ingredients, you can enjoy different to me. While I still love and respect my native country, their typical tastes so that there is no need to use a lot of extra I know that the United States is my country now and that I can seasonings. Often artificial flavours even suppress the taste of the never live in any other place. However, sometimes I think I have original food. For example, for a potato gratin you only need pota- lost my own identity. I don't like to speak Spanish anymore and toes, onions, a little garlic, a lot of heavy cream and some cheese. I don't have the same behaviors or way of thinking that many These simple things, together with salt and pepper, contribute foreigners have. Even though I live in the United States now, I to a delicious taste without using special pre-mixed seasonings. also feel that I am not completely American, either. I was not Last, I prefer simplicity related to special activities for children. born here. I have an accent, and I sometimes feel that there is Nowadays you can do a lot of fancy things with children. You can discrimination against immigrants like me. However, I cannot live go to indoor playgrounds, mini-golf places and water parks; you in Spanish culture anymore either, because I have moved to the can go to the movies, watch TV or play computer games. Most United States and I have lost my native citizenship. of these specialty places involve a lot of action, and of course the I Don't Believe in Luck kids enjoy it. However, it is not bad to leave the kids at home sometimes, without entertaining them. When I was a child and Martha Parra, Mexico I was at my grandmother's house, I had to look for something to Advanced Oral Communications play with because she had no toys at all. So, I cut pictures out of I don't believe in luck. I think that all of my actions will have the newspaper, built caves/hollows under the table or made dough good or bad consequences. They will depend on my decisions. from anything I could find in her kitchen pantry. I loved these ac- If I want to win the lottery, I have to buy a ticket in the first tivities and they are some of the nicest memories of my childhood! place. If I don't buy a ticket, I will never win the lottery. What If you don't overload the kids with entertainment, but instead I am trying to say here is that it is not a matter of luck, if I want offer them only simple things, they have to use their imagination something I have to look for it. It won't come to me by itself. If I and probably they will find something interesting to do. I know find it, it will be just the beginning of a long journey. I will have some people will not agree with my opinion; they might say that to walk and fight all the way to the end with faith, courage, and such simply designed homes are not cozy, that this way of cooking perseverance. If I fall, it won't be bad luck; it will be a way to test is too expensive or takes too much time and those activities are my strength. I will find the way to get up and continue walking. not contemporary and may be just boring. I guess it is like most If I take the wrong way, it will not be bad luck either; it will be things: you have to balance between the extremes and there is no one consequence of my actions. My duty will be to go back and need to live in a simple way in every facet of your everyday life. find the right way. If there is no way back, I will try to find a new However, it definitely is worth it to think about it for some situa- way which will make me find my journey. If I find it, it will not tions. It can be a relief to keep things in a simple way. be good luck, but another consequence of my actions. I do not believe in luck. >>>

Page 19 I Believe

My Perspective Manuel Esquivel, Venezuela, Advanced Writing I believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen. I do not know what is in- side of people's brains, but I am positive what is in mine. I am not a religious person and I do not go to church on Sunday because I think that the church is inside of us. The Church is just a place where people go to make confession and spend a while in God's house, as many people call it. I believe that God is everywhere and nobody has to go to church to feel close to God. Wherever I am, I think that I can be forgiven if I am really remorseful. I do not believe in religions because they were made by humans. There are no religions in this world; that is what I believe the most. I do not think that anybody can tell me that I must go to church to baptize myself and belong to a religion to be close to God. I do not be- lieve in life after death. Each person is a world of his own who has different ways of believing, so what I wrote is what I believe, and it is the perspective I have of the world. Man's Best Friend My First Semester In College Irina Ivanova, Russia Ana Green, Peru, Advanced Writing Advanced Writing After so many years of wanting to go to college, I finally made the decision that I was going to go. I was so scared -- I didn't know I believe in dogs. I think that people had a reason to name the what sorts of challenges I was going to face, but I was ready to dog "man's best friend". My life experience confirms that this begin a new chapter in my life that was long overdue. My deci- expression has deep meaning. When I lived with my parents, they sion to go to school was because I wanted to improve my writing. didn't let me have any pets, but I always wanted to get cat or dog. I never realized that I would meet so many interesting people and When I got married and moved out, my husband and I decided that I really love to read. I will never forget my first day of school; to buy a dog. A long time passed before we decided what kind of I was concerned with what other people might think when they dog we should choose. Finally, we picked out a Golden Retriever. saw a 44-year-old woman walking in the classroom. I finally made We named him Ray. When we brought him home, our new dog it to school. Parking the car was the easiest part; looking for my was just a little fluffy puppy who cried for a couple weeks every classroom was a different story. I looked for my classroom, but I time we left him alone, but soon he got used to his new home. couldn't find it. I saw so many people, but I was afraid to ask any- On the first day, after we brought Ray home, we collided with a one for help. I finally found it. I went in and looked around at all few problems. Every morning one of us (usually it was me) had to the students and the professor; right away I was relieved that I was get up at 5:00-6:00 a.m. to let Ray out, and if we didn't want to not the oldest, which made me feel better already. There were stu- clean a mess which he would make during the night, we had to get dents there from many different countries and ages who were all up in the middle of the night and let him take care of his needs very friendly and willing to help each other. As the days went by I outside. Every day was like this: feed me or I will cry, go walk with became relaxed. Furthermore, I was no longer afraid of what they me or I will bother you, play with me – I'm bored. Suddenly, we might think of my age, and I could focus on learning. I realized understood that we were not the only ones living in the house. that my fear was nonsensical. Learning how to write was a chal- We couldn't be so selfish anymore because we had somebody little lenge. I didn't know that to write a good essay I needed to include who depended on us. Now Ray is three years old. He is mature, many parts like: the topic, main idea, supporting ideas, details, but very playful. He is kind and devoted. If he does something and conclusion, and, in addition, I had to make sure I didn't have bad, no matter how strongly I punish him, he will always look at run-ons. Oh yes! Something so simple but so important – let's not me with eyes full of understanding. Wherever I go, he will fol- forget about indentation. Everything was so overwhelming, but as low me. Ray will never prefer another owner but me. He doesn't the days went by, and with them, the long hours of studying, I fi- remember offenses, he doesn't care about the weather outside, and nally finished my first essay. The topic was about my favorite food. he doesn't care how the stock market is doing. The only thing he After I finished my essay, I was so proud of myself for writing it cares about are the people who he loves. Your parents, children, and doing a good job. One day talking to my professor he asked friends could betray, deny, ignore, and just forget about you. What me if I read much; my response to him was "No, I don't like to can I say? We are all humans and sometimes we do make mistakes; read". He told me that I should read. He said reading is good for but dogs always are going to be with their owners. People who your grammar; the more you read the better your writing will be. have a dog not only have a pet, they have a best friend who will Because I wanted to learn, I decided I was going to take his advice. always be on their side and will trust them and love them until I asked him for the name of a book, and he told me to read The death. And so because of all this I call dog "man's best friend". Kite Runner. To my surprise, I loved the book, and after I finished it I was ready to read another book. Nowadays there isn't a day that goes by that I don't take time to read. In conclusion, I will never forget my first semester in college; I not only learned how to improve my writing but also met some wonderful people and found out that I love to read. Which book should I read next? Page 20 I Believe

Writing Is The First Step My First Semester in College To Improving My English Martha Lozano, Colombia Jianlang Shi, Taiwan Advanced Writing Advanced Writing My first semester in college was the most anticipated experience I have always enjoyed reading and writing in Chinese. After mov- in my life. I was anxious and eager about it. Two weeks later it ing to the United States, I am learning English in order to adopt became the most stressful experience that I had ever had. The first this new life and culture. In this process, I have some difficulties in day was weird; I didn't know anybody and everything was new for learning it. It seems easier for me to read and listen, but my skills me. The second day, I felt more familiar with the situation, and of speaking and writing are still not good. Because I always spoke at the end of the week I was completely happy. The second week, Chinese in the monastery where I worked, I am not familiar with when the socialization time was over, the work started, and what English. It is hard for me to put together a sentence in English be- work! I had never had so many things to do at the same time. My cause I do not understand English grammar correctly. Regarding life started to become chaotic, and I didn't have enough time to listening or reading, I am all right because I do not need to think complete my duties. So, I tried to extend my day to 2:00 or 3:00 about sentence structure. My English has improved since I took a.m. I ate food that was quick and easy to prepare. I got sick. I a writing course at Kingwood College last semester. Writing has had sleep deprivation and ulcers in my stomach, which made me enhanced my English speaking capability. I am good at Chinese, change most of the habits in my life. Thus, everything became including old-fashioned Chinese literature. It is believed that when different. I was another person with a new life and new responsi- an adult is very good at one language, this person may encounter bilities to deal with. It was a hard transition from my school life to difficulties in learning other languages since the usage of the first my college life. Finally the stress that made me sick at the begin- language may hinder this person from learning other languages. I ning became the dose of energy that I needed to work and the never wrote in English, and I have a very strong Chinese back- signal to stop when I needed to. This is the key that has helped me ground. It was difficult for me to think in English in the begin- to balance my life. ning; therefore, I wrote plenty of Chinese-style English when I first wrote a sentence and then translated it into English. However, I Believe In Diversity I had to learn the proper way of English writing if I did not want Erika Dominguez, Venezuela my essays sent back to me. After two months, I was more familiar Advanced Writing with English writing, but I wrote it very slowly. I would like to The United States is the first country I have visited other than thank my English teacher for teaching English in a systematic way. mine. Since I was little, I have always wanted to travel around the I found his grammar teaching very easy to follow, so I became world and know new countries, cities, and cultures. That desire clearer in grammar. I had to memorize what he taught. If I do not didn't become real until now. The day I arrived here I was really review it over and over again, I may forget it. Amazingly, I found excited and nervous at the same time, but I knew that this experi- my speaking has improved as well, even though I seldom speak in ence would be one of the best of my life. Finally, I was living one English. I am very pleased and also encouraged. I took writing and of my dreams. On the first day of college, I had the opportunity reading courses this semester because I think I need to expand my to discover a little bit about all the cultures that exist and cohabit vocabulary to write well. I can understand what is said on televi- in our world. My fascination increased and increased during the sion and radio now. This is a big release for me because I do not initial week, even to today. Living this new experience was giving need to struggle with the difficulty in communicating in English me great satisfaction. I just believe that the diversity and differ- like before. Although the learning process will be long for me, I ences between humans such as our languages, religions, customs, am still very happy because I have found an organized way to fol- and traditions are the most wonderful and interesting things. They low and to study. From writing to reading, and from grammar to determine our integrity and originality. They make us unique. So vocabulary, my English has become stronger and stronger. I would I feel everybody should love and appreciate their cultures because like to thank those who have taught me English. I could not have they are part of themselves. Therefore, all of us have to respect oth- gone this far without them. ers' cultures and value them too. The human race would be really boring and simple without all these contrasts. We have so much to see, know, and learn! The beauty and complexity of life is connect- ing with new circumstances. It is present in diversity. >>>

Page 21 I Believe

This Is Life My First Semester in College Carlo Medina, Peru Carine Kamto, Cameroon Advanced Writing Advance Writing In this era, it is so difficult to survive without a good education; It was on June 4th when I arrived at Kingwood College at nine it is worse if we want to go to our countries to work. So, I believe o'clock. I registered for some English classes. That semester was that to be successful in life, we have to sacrifice many things be- my first in college. I learned many things, and it was the biggest cause nothing is easy. You have to fight for what you want, never experience in my life. First of all, I was an International Student give up, and always persevere. Do not ever let anyone make you and a new student in college. I was shy because I did not know feel bad or that you are less than they. You always have to hold how to speak as well as others. For instance, when the teacher your head high because everyone is the same; no one is better or spoke, not only could I not understand what she or he said, but less than you. Just because a man or woman has a lot of money also I was afraid I might say something wrong. Next, I did not does not make him or her better than you; always remember know anyone; that's why I felt alone. For example, while on my everyone is the same. I also believe, and I think for me it is actu- break, I sat in the cafeteria alone. It was so hard for me to make a ally the most important thing, you should always thank God for dialog with others. However, I upgraded this step and I overcame everything you do and everything that happens to you because He my shyness and other bad attitudes. I think it was a good experi- is never going to leave you alone. He is the best friend that you are ence because as long as I came to school, I tried to speak with ever going to have. my classmates. Also, my teachers recommended tutoring courses. Twice a week after class I went to the tutoring class to help myself The Most Important Experience understand the vocabulary and grammar. So, I obtained good Rodolfo Castillo, Colombia grades on quizzes. Finally, my first semester at Kingwood Col- Advanced Writing lege was the biggest experience I have overcome in my life. This Since coming to the USA, I have studied in several colleges, but experience provided me good skills. Now I am able to speak fairly Lone Star College – Kingwood has been the most important well, I have good understanding, and I do better on writing and experience for three principal reasons. First of all, I am taking vocabulary. ESL classes where I have learned how to write, read and speak in a My First Semester in College better way than I used to. My understanding and comprehension are improving every day. Now I am able to face my new life in a Leticia Menchaca, Mexico second language. The second reason this college has been an im- Advanced Writing portant experience is that I am working at the college. I have had In my first semester in college, I took grammar and writing and the opportunity to listen, speak, and think in English during the reading and vocabulary classes. I started writing very poor essays afternoons. This opportunity has expanded my knowledge about with many grammar errors. Nevertheless, at the end of the semes- the way English speakers communicate every day, enhancing my ter I became a better writer which will help me to succeed in my vocabulary and pronunciation. The last reason Lone Star College life. When I was taking grammar and writing the first few weeks has been important to me is I am playing soccer with the college of class, I was so bad at writing essays. First, I used to write about team. I am spending my free time doing my favorite activity and the topic mixing past and present in the same paragraph. Second, practicing English in a completely different environment. I am the conclusion was always out of topic, so it was never the same as using my leisure time encouraging myself to relax, but at the same the thesis. Now I know that the conclusion has to contain some time I am learning English in a fun way. I feel comfortable at Lone or part of the thesis statement. Moreover, when I am writing in Star College-Kingwood because I am doing my favorite activities future tense, I have to continue with future the whole paragraph. there. I am taking classes, working, and playing my favorite sport I also learned a lot when I took reading and vocabulary. I learned all in the same place, making the college like my second home. new words to help me improve my vocabulary. Now, every time I read a book or a newspaper, I see new words that I learned in class, and that makes me feel very excited. Also, when I was watching Dr. Phil's show I heard him say words that I had learned in class; that made me feel that I am not wasting my time by coming to school. Therefore, in order to succeed in my daily life, I have to continue coming to school. Even though I am not a teenager and sometimes feel too old to be coming to school, I will meet the goal that I set for myself. I will encourage anyone that has problems speaking, writing, or reading to come to these ESL classes.

Page 22 I Believe

Feel What God Says The Gift Feng Runqi, China Maria Alas, El Salvador Advanced Writing Advanced Writing When I am sleeping, I think writing is just like sleeping; when I Jesus died a long time ago to give us the best gift - the gift of lift up my head and look up at the sky, I think writing must be love. This is an old story that is still alive these days. What are we the weather; when I am walking down the street softly, I think doing to follow his steps? Let me tell you what I see and what is writing is the path where I travel. The sunshine is so strong that I breaking my heart. One day Jesus came to teach us one lesson, the cannot even open my eyes; then I feel the clouds moving around a lesson of love. He died and gave his life to save you and me. Are rainbow and the winds kissing my face. I hear God telling me that we practicing that valuable lesson? No, we are doing the opposite. writing is an art, a journey, a life of being yourself. You will never This generation does not have a heart filled with love. We all are achieve the ending except when your mind shuts down. I picture thinking of vain things. We do not see our brothers', sisters', and myself standing in front of a writing class, and I want to ask ev- friends' problems. We are only thinking of our personal needs. We eryone a question: "How does writing make you feel? Before you never stop to think about what we are doing. Why are we self- answer me, please close your eyes and follow me. Everyone imag- ish, immature, or even more, evil? We do not see or listen to our ine that I am crouching down behind a young couple. They are society crying out for help and justice. Our heart is frozen; we do sitting on the beach in an absolutely lovely mood. Then they both not have feelings; we are destroying ourselves. God, open our eyes hear a voice: 'Honey, do you want to remember all the wonder- to see through to you and to do what you did. Show us the way, ful parts of your life?' I am pretty sure that they will look at each and little by little we will find the way we have lost. Please bring other and say 'Yes!' Do not ask me why before you ask yourself." I peace and love to this country; teach us the way to live a better have found that when people get older, they sense that memories life, like you did . The life in which love, respect, communication are treasures. I believe that writing is the only way for everyone to and care for the unfortunate people exists. Lord, here is my life. I keep their stories forever and as beautiful as they were. Sometimes, want you to forgive me and from today I will give you glory and even in odd places or with one special person writing is like a honor because you never leave me, even though I do not deserve river in our minds that cannot be stopped. It gives us an outlet to it. Lord, forgive me, forgive this nation, and forgive all the world. express ourselves; it can also help us find ourselves. On the other Thank you, Amen. hand, writing can certainly be a good way to communicate with people. Sometimes we feel things are difficult to express by speak- I Believe in Peace for the World ing or we feel afraid to talk face-to-face. If we exchange feelings Ismar Sosa, Venezuela and expressions in writing, our thoughts may be better communi- Advanced Oral Communication cated. I remember when I was in high school; our teacher gave our I believe in peace for the world. Peace is a simple word, but it has parents the task of writing a letter. The faces I saw on the adults a great meaning. How many countries in the world are at peace? as we opened the letters from our parents were unforgettable. In How many people can live in mental or physical peace? Why is it retrospect, we can see that writing is a great, wonderful thing. so difficult to keep peace around the world? These questions have Therefore, what makes us afraid of writing? Some people do not complicated answers. I believe in the human necessity of living know how to write an essay or other academic piece, but I do not in peace. Peace should be mandatory for all the countries around think lack of knowledge is a problem if we learn. The thing we the world. God created the world with the purpose of preserv- hate is when we are limited in writing. For example, the teacher ing human life. It is incredible when peace does not exist. War, may give a topic that you do not like or have no idea about; the nuclear weapons, kidnapping, terrorist attacks, robbery or killing place or time is not right for you or your mind is just not ready are like long arms that attack peace. Many people suffer the con- for writing. Take myself - I would like to sit on the floor in front sequences of living without peace. It is not fair to live in a world of my big window by myself with some snack food and a cup of where people continuously fight for basic needs such as food, almond tea. For me, the best period of the day is when my room security, health and justice. Peace is not an ideal dream; man can is shrouded in sunshine. All the feelings about writing – it is the build this peace with a lot of effort and strong desire. Government way we have to go, the process we should follow, the art we should leaders are responsible for peace and they should focus all their understand. power in this direction. Peace is the solution to many problems around the world, and it is a great gift to our children. Men and women around the world demand peace and dream of some day obtaining this blessing. The world needs peace to reach its best potential. Our society will grow as peace grows in each country. Finally, peace should be of utmost priority among countries. Peace does not occur simply with words; the world requires real actions toward progress. This I believe. §

Page 23 Lone Star College–Kingwood Intensive English Program (ESOL) — Summer 2008

Course Course # Days Time Start End Academic ESOL (6 & 12 Week Programs)

Language Skills Workshop *21101 ENGL. 0308 MTWTh 8:30-10:15 a.m. June 2 July 8 (Pronunciation) Language Skills Workshop *21102 ENGL. 0308 MTWTh 10:30-12:15 a.m. June 2 July 8 (Grammar Review) ESOL Reading High Beginning *21001 ENGL. 0337 MTWTh 9:00-10:40 a.m. June 2 Aug 14 ESOL Reading Intermediate *21002 ENGL. 0338 MTWTh 9:00-10:40 a.m. June 2 Aug 14 ESOL Writing High Beginning *21001 ENGL. 0353 MTWTh 11:00-12:50 p.m. June 2 Aug 14 ESOL Writing Intermediate *21001 ENGL. 0354 MTWTh 11:00-12:50 p.m. June 2 Aug 14 ESOL Oral Comm. High Beginning *21001 ENGL. 0343 MTWTh 1:00-2:50 p.m. June 2 Aug 14 ESOL Oral Comm. Intermediate *21001 ENGL. 0344 MTWTh 1:00-2:50 p.m. June 2 Aug 14

Continuing Education ESOL (Day & Evening Classes)

Communication for Workplace I CCOMG 2100073 MTWTh 8:00-10:45 a.m. June 2 July 8 6:00-8:45 p.m. Communication for Workplace II CCOMG 2100148 MTWTh 8:00-10:45 a.m. June 2 July 8 6:00-8:45 p.m. Communication for Workplace III CCOMG 2100456 MTWTh 11:00-1:45 p.m. June 2 July 8 6:00-8:45 p.m. Communication for Workplace IV CCOMG 2100562 MTWTh 11:00-1:45 p.m. June 2 July 8 6:00-8:45 p.m. English for Healthcare Professionals CCOMG 2100674 MTWTh 6:00-7:50 p.m. June 2 July 8

Copyright 2008: Lone Star College–Kingwood is the copyright holder of the materials in Diversity. Any use of the materials in this newsletter is only allowed with permission from Lone Star College–Kingwood. Page 24