ESL Voices 2025

ESL 2025 Writings, Poems and Essays

by Students of English as a Second Language

Cuyahoga Community College

ESL 2025 Writings, Poems and Essays

by Students of English as a Second Language

Editors:

Becca Aronhalt Yokum, West Lisa Friel, Westshore David Napuk, West

Judging Committee: Nick Prokup, Metro Alayna Klco, West

Judith Olson-Hammer, West Monica Tofan, West

Art Direction:

Seong-Ae Mun, West

Cover Art:

Traci Guthrie, Student, West

Design and Layout:

Traci Guthrie, Student, West

Contributing Faculty:

Becca Aronhalt Yokum, West David Napuk, West

Monica Tofan, West

Lisa Friel, East and Westshore Timothy Bailey, West Nick Prokup, Metro

Khrystyna Kokodynska, Westshore Alayna Klco, West

Patricia Coyne, West

Kathleen Mozan, Metro Tricia Sams, Metro

ii

Background and Mission In 1991, Mara Hegedeos, Assistant Professor of English/English as a Second Language, collected ESL student essays college-wide and put them under one cover. Thus, ESL Voices was born. Since that time, the mantle has been taken up by faculty from the different campuses, with heroic efforts to secure funding in the earlier years. We appreciate the efforts of all those editorial teams, and we especially appreciate the current administration’s support – both moral and financial – of the publication of this edition of ESL Voices.

ESL Voices showcases the writing of our international, immigrant, and citizen English-language students and recognizes two important facts: the ability to write well is hard work, and the ability to write well in a second language is twice that. Through ESL Voices, Cuyahoga Community College acknowledges the achievements of its ESL students, celebrates their diversity, and motivates continued writing improvement.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to the following people whose support and encouragement helped make this year’s ESL Voices a reality: the faculty and administration at East, Metro, West, and Westshore, especially Timothy Elsey, Associate Dean, Liberal Arts, Western Campus; Constance Edwards, Associate Dean, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Westshore; Shamuire Spivey, Associate Dean, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, East; and Kate Vodicka, Associate Dean, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Metro.

We would also like to give a special thanks to Seong-Ae Mun for her help, guidance, and work in this cross-curriculum collaboration between ESL and graphic arts, and to Traci Guthrie, a Visual Communication and Graphic Design student, for her creative cover art and layout design for this edition of ESL Voices.

iii

Contents ABOUT ME

My Morning........................................................................................................... 1

By Iryna Chepil

Who I Am................................................................................................................ 1

By Tetiana Dolhoruk

ABOUT ME

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 2

By Michael Zakhary

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 2

By Ihor Hanushchak

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 3

By Ghulam Nabi Ayoubi

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 3

By Roksolana Duzhak

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 4

By Alberto Garcia

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 4

By Marta Khanas

About Me............................................................................................................... 5

By Myroslava Dudar

Songolo Family.................................................................................................... 5

By Fatuma Songolo

My Leisure Time Activity.................................................................................. 6 Vladyslav Murmil

Who Am I?............................................................................................................. 6

By Nataliya Fedyshyn

FAMILY AND FRIENDS

My Family............................................................................................................... 8

By Marzieh Hajiali

Gratitude to My Parents for a Better Life.................................................... 8

By Viktoriia Paliukh

iv

My Best Friend is My Husband....................................................................... 9

By Olena Velhiv

My Mother-in-Law.............................................................................................. 9

By Liliia Kuzyk

My Mother............................................................................................................. 9

By Uliana Koriukina

My Mother...........................................................................................................10

By Iryna Deiak

How I Met My Closest Friend........................................................................10

By Kateryna Shablia

How I Met My Closest Friend........................................................................10

By Olena Hrelia

A Person Whom I Respect.............................................................................11

By Lana Kantonist

My Niece..............................................................................................................11

By Tuan Khoi Phan

An Ordinary Woman.........................................................................................12

By Roxana Zheng

MY PLACES

Two Cities in Ivory Coast................................................................................13

By Ahou Marcelle Victoire Oussou

Three Cities in Costa Rica..............................................................................13

By Karen Navarro

A Beautiful City..................................................................................................13

By Tetiana Fryz

Cities in Iran........................................................................................................14

By Marzieh Hajiali

MY JOURNEY

My Decision for the Future............................................................................15

By Andela Lila

My Progress in English....................................................................................15

By Iryna Deiak

Chasing Fate.......................................................................................................16

By Thayna Felippe Cazetta

v

A Big Change in My Life..................................................................................16

By Marwah Koshan

My Journey to the US......................................................................................17

By Coral Guerrero

My Path from War to Safety..........................................................................18

By Hanna Onyshchenko

The Important Moments of My Life............................................................19

By Ahmad Wahid Faizy

Changes in My Life Over Time......................................................................20

By Anastasiya Muminova

HOW TO

How to Start a Restaurant Business...........................................................22

By Alla Bakalets

Ways to Relax.....................................................................................................22

By Omar Al Nadi

Language Conqueror......................................................................................23

By Roxana Zheng

My Journey with Processes of Learning English...................................23

By Assem Muamin

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY

My First Day in the U.S.....................................................................................25

By Olena Velhiv

My Dream Come True......................................................................................25

By Nadiia Andriiuk

Worst Day of My Life........................................................................................26

By Yuliia Podpriadova

The Scariest Day in My Life...........................................................................26

By Rasha Alabeed

Best Day of My Life..........................................................................................27

By Kawsar Koshani

My First Time Taking Trails in the USA.......................................................27

By Vasyl Boichuk

A Box of Frogs at School................................................................................28

By Alessi Unain

A Memorable Trip to Mt. Washington.........................................................28

By Volodymyr Hunko

vi

MEMORIES

Time When My Dream Became True..........................................................30

By Igor Zavgorodnii

When You Help Someone...............................................................................30

By Barsha Subedi

A Home in Memory...........................................................................................31

By Mariia Butsiak

MY FUTURE

My Life in the Next Five Years.......................................................................33

By Nadiia Andriiuk

My Life in Five Years.........................................................................................33

By Keita Issiaka

PERSPECTIVES

Life in a Refugee Camp...................................................................................34

By Rahul Subedi

Gender Equality and Social Justice is Relevant Today........................36

By Viktoria Netrebiak

vii

viii

ABOUT ME BOUT ME My Morning

By Iryna Chepil Ukraine, Basic

Every day I get up in the morning. I am used to getting up in the morning because my son has to go to school quickly. Regardless of whether it is a weekend or a weekday, I get up early. When the children are still sleeping on weekends and I wake up in the morning, I have this time for myself in peace when it is quiet outside, having breakfast and coffee. Morning is a new day and new opportunities for me.

Who I Am

By Tetiana Dolhoruk Ukraine, Basic

My name Tetiana. I have 27 years old. I have two children and a husband. We come from Ukraine. I am studying English. I really like the United States. That’s why I think it’s important to know the language.

I dream of buying my own house here. It is possible to open my own business in the future, namely something in the restaurant sector. I really love to cook and have many ideas for the menu of a restaurant or cafe. In Ukraine I worked in a restaurant, so this profession is close to me. I also worked in a Georgian restaurant; it was a very interesting experience. I also really liked their food, sometimes I cook Georgian dishes at home.

I would also like to visit other countries, see their culture and try their food. I hope everything works out for me.

ABOUT ME | 1

Who Am I?

By Michael Zakhary Egypt, Basic

My name is Michael. I am from Egypt. My first language is Arabic. I am married. I have no kids yet. I have one sister and one brother. I like to play video games. I like to watch soccer games. I like to play soccer with my friends, I also like watching soccer game in my free time. I like to go outside, and I like to walk in the morning. I love to go on bicycle rides. I like to go to new restaurants and try new food. I like to go to lakes. I enjoy watching trees and flowers outside. I came from Egypt to the United States one year ago. I’m interested to study computer classes. I dream of working in an international computer company.

Who Am I?

By Ihor Hanushchak Ukraine, Basic

My name is Ihor. I’m from Ukraine. I was born in Ivano-Frankivsk. I lived in the village Chornoliztsi. Now I live in North Royalton. My dad is Mykhailo, and my mom is Anna.

I have a beautiful wife, Tatiana. We have two children, Anton and Ihor. I am a builder. I do inside work (plaster, drywall, paint, carpentry, tile labor).

I like my job! I study at Tri-C in the evening, from Monday to Thursday. In my free time, I play soccer and cook. I also spend time with my family. We like to go to the park or eat ice cream. I like to listen to music and walk outside.

On Saturday, I rest with my family. We go shopping.

On Sunday, I go to church at 10:00 AM. At my young age; my good hobby was playing soccer. I still like it. I love playing soccer because it is fun and good exercise. I also like to watch soccer games on TV. I play soccer with friends when I have time.

I also like math. I like to learn new things. I like working with my hands. I enjoy building things and cooking food. My favorite food is borscht.

I want to learn English to understand American people.

My dream is for peace in Ukraine. I want to visit my country again. I also want a good job in America and to help my children have a good life.

2 | ESL Voices

Who Am I?

By Ghulam Nabi Ayoubi Afghanistan, Basic

I am Ghulam. I arrived in the United States with my wife and three children on March 25, 2024. That day was a new day for us because after we arrived, after a month, I rented a house with the help of my friends, took driving lessons, and spent July and August at the company. And in the last days of December, after successfully completing my classes, I was employed at Atlas Crane Company on January 6, 2025. I am grateful to all the people who helped me along the way.

Who Am I?

By Roksolana Duzhak Ukraine, Basic

Let me tell you a few words about me. My name is Roksolana.

I am 21 years old. I was born in Ukraine, and live in the village of Kosmach. I have a mother, a father, and two younger sisters. I came to the USA more than a year ago. My dream was to get to America.

My uncle has lived here for many years, he told me how beautiful this country is, and that there are great opportunities here. I am very happy to be here. I am a student. I am learning English in college for a better life. I really like English lessons. I met my classmates in college.

I am very happy to meet new people. They are from different nationalities. It is interesting to communicate, and learn something new about their country. English will help me find a good job, I will be able to speak freely with people, and build my career. In free time I usually read. I like read books about motivation, and business. I am currently reading Rich Dad Poor Dad. It emphasize financial literacy, financial independence, and building wealth through investing in assets, real estate, starting, and owning a business. Also, I go for a walk with my friend, or my boyfriend. In the future, I very want start my business. I am interested in beauty industry and plan to take courses. I like it. I also want to travel to other countries. I want to see the beauty of other countries, learn more about different customs. Travel always brings adventures, and new experiences. I will always love traveling, and strive to discover even more amazing places in this world.

ABOUT ME | 3

Who Am I?

By Alberto Garcia Dominican Republic, Basic

My name is Alberto. I come from the Dominican Republic and a humble family. I am the youngest of 6. I have 2 brothers and 4 sister I love very much. My children and I like to play sport. I like to go the beach, I like dance and give myself a few drinks socially. I currently work for mar-bal.

In my free time, I like to spend it with my family.

Who Am I?

By Marta Khanas Ukraine, Basic

My name is Marta. I am from Ukraine. I worked in a flower store and also studied psychology. I am a self-developing person. I love learning new things.

I am a photographer. I love looking at the world through the lens of a camera. I appreciate simplicity and sincerity in people. Love capturing their emotions in photographs.

I am a florist. Adore flowers and plants. I have a special way of seeing beauty in them.

I am a mother. My son is my strength. His name is Danylo. He is one year and four months old. We really like to play different games, walk outside, and drive a car. My son really likes to eat what I cook for him. And he also loves gods.

I am a wife. His name is Roman. We have been married for two years.

We have been together for 8 years. We went to school together. My husband is my support. He radiates the energy that fuels my life.

I am a daughter. I have wonderful parents who raised me to be who I am. I want my family to live in the same harmony as my parents.

I am a friend. My friends hold an honorable place in my heart. If I consider someone my friend, I stand by them in both sorrow and joy.

I am a student in Tri-C college. I dream of learning English and speaking fluently with other people. I love developing my skills and expanding my knowledge.

I often ask myself, “Who am I?” and “What is the meaning of life?”

I believe I am an ordinary person, with strengths and weaknesses. I strive to be honest with myself and those around me. When I do good, I feel as if I am growing wings.

4 | ESL Voices

About Me

By Myroslava Dudar Ukraine, Basic

My name is Myroslava. Quiet moments and cozy spaces make me feel happy and calm. Coffee is my daily routine and that makes my morning better. Being an introvert, I also like spending time with my friends.

Sharing stories and laughter together.

If I liked writing I would write a book, but I love reading books. Books are a big part of my life. I enjoy reading about psychology. Because they help me understand myself and another better. One of my dreams is to have my personal library. I even order a stamp for it.

Faith is very important to me. I’m a Christian, and my faith gives me strength every day.

I’m 28 years old. I’m a student again. I’m studying English in college. In future, I want to be an accountant, because math had my favorite subject in school. My goal is to work in my profession and have a stable job.

I’m a mom of a two- year-old son. Time with my son is the most precious thing to me. We read, play and explore the world together.

Walking with my child in the fresh air helps me recharge, but not in the winter. I love spring. Spring is my favorite time of year.

My dreams are to speak English fluently, work as an accountant and learn to skate. I believe I can make them come true.

Songolo Family

By Fatuma Songolo Congo, Basic

My name is Fatuma Songolo. I want to tell you about my family. First of all I thank God, and I would like to thank my parents who brought me into the world. I am the fifth born of eleven children. We are all blessed to have one father and one mother. I love my family very much. God has blessed us with love in our lives as we live in this world of many problems, but we thank God for everything. The name of my country is Congo. Country located in Africa. Congo is my country and I love it very much. Although I was born in Congo, because of the war I have lived as a refugee until now. I lived in Tanzania all those years when I came here to America. I always feel very sad because I don’t know what my country looks like. I always hear and see it in the media.

ABOUT ME | 5

My Leisure Time Activity Vladyslav Murmil Ukraine, Level 2

I usually do useful and useless activities. My biggest leisure time activity is to watch movies. I think this does not give me any advantages but I like to do it because that is interesting for me. I also like to watch movies with my friends because that is more fun for me. For example, to discuss the plot of a movie or to laugh from strange episodes is my favorite part. Sometimes I enjoy watching videos about history and reading books. Some of these activities help me to develop my world viewpoints. Reading is a good way to develop your vocabulary and, for example, discuss an interesting topic or tell the story. I like to watch historical videos because there are a lot of interesting periods in history, for example history shows us how our society was developing. In the end I want to add that relaxing is a very important part of the day for physical and mental health. People are not robots, so they need to take a rest sometimes.

Who Am I?

By Nataliya Fedyshyn Ukraine, Level 3

In every person’s life comes a day when they ask themselves “Who am I?” The answer will be different and special for everyone. Some people can have three roles, others can choose three moments or things that shape who they are. It always depends on life experiences, hobbies, special moments, or even family. In my life, there are three aspects that describe me as a person: snowboarding, working with children, and magic of the numbers 3 and 13.

When people first hear about snowboarding, they often ask me, “Is it possible to ride on “one ski?” Yes, it is. Snowboarding is not just a sport for me. It was a special period of my life that built my character from early childhood to present. When I tried to adapt to the team, I started to train my body and mind, and then I had a goal and achieved it. I went through tears, pain, and strong competition to finally feel freedom, stability, and confidence in my own actions. Every person has a “slope” which looks like a challenge against falling. Snowboarding made me stronger, more confident, and showed me that the person who doesn’t give up will have success at their own peak.

Working with children is another important chapter in my life. Did I really want to work with children? My answer was no. I told myself, “I will never work with children.” The conclusion is simple – never say never if 6 | ESL Voices

you want it to come true. When the war started in 2022, my family and I were supposed to move to Warsaw, Poland. I immediately started looking for a job and found the position of psychologist assistant. The job was quite challenging because working with kids who lost their homes and peaceful lives is not an easy task. However, these children were full of life.

They taught me to enjoy every single day and the little things, and even for a moment, I felt this carefree life again. It also gave me a strong sense of responsibility and changed my belief that kindness is a force that can change not only our life, but even the world.

The next station in shaping me as a person is magic of the numbers 3 and 13. A lot of people are surprised how 13 can be a lucky number, but I can prove why it is a symbol in my life. At first, these numbers have followed me from the beginning. I was born on 03/13/2003 at 1:30 in the hospital room 13. Sounds magical, doesn’t it? Next, my lucky number in track and field was 13, and that helped me to win many races. Also, I started snowboarding in 2013, even though I could have started earlier.

When I applied for the U.S. visa, I could travel only in 2023. In the same year, I met my future husband, whose birth date contains number 3. I believe that these numbers have a special power and energy. They also have a positive impact on me and show me that I’m moving in the right direction.

To sum up, these three aspects describe my “I.” Snowboarding gave me motivation and faith in my own strength, working with children filled me with sincerity and kindness, and the numbers 3 and 13 showed me that there is a place for magic in the world.

ABOUT ME | 7

F

AMILY FAMILY FRIENDS ANDAND FRIENDS My Family

By Marzieh Hajiali Iran, Basic

My name is Marzieh. I have a big family and a busy family. I am sixtytwo years old. My parents dead before I come to USA. I am married. My husband was a engineer. And I was a teacher. We have two children. They are live in Europe. I like my small family and my big family. I have a sister and a brother. They have children. And I like them.

Gratitude to My Parents for a Better Life

By Viktoriia Paliukh Ukraine, Level 1

I respect my parents because they moved to USA for me and my brother to have better life. They left everything in Ukraine and started new life in adults age. It’s not easy for parents, but they love us very much. Me and brother need to help them. Also, we need to be grateful.

My mother and my father from village, and they born in simple family.

They had hard childhood, but now they have good life. I want to be like my parents. I have mom’s eyes, hair, and dimple, and I have dad’s lips, height, and athleticism. They are beautiful parents, and I love them so much.

8 | ESL Voices

My Best Friend is My Husband

By Olena Velhiv Ukraine, Level 1

My husband is my best friend for many reasons. First, he is handsome and friendly. He has round brown eyes, and he is a tall and strong person.

My husband is friendly because he has many friends. He is really a good man. Second, my husband takes good care of our family. He is a truck driver, so he is a hard worker, and he is very dependable. My husband is the best father for our daughter. Also, my husband has interesting hobbies. He loves hunting and brings home strange food. Then, my friend tells exciting, wonderful stories about his hunting. My husband likes to organize his things in the garage and in the car. Finally, I love my husband because he is a very friendly person, takes good care of his family, and has interesting hobbies.

My Mother-in-Law

By Liliia Kuzyk Ukraine, Level 1

My mother-in-law is an important person for me in my life. First, she is an intelligent and wise woman. She is a doctor and a businesswoman.

Second, she looks nice because she doesn’t look her age and she is beautiful. She has blonde hair, brown eyes, and pronounced cheekbones.

She is tall and thin. Finally, my mother-in-law is a nice mother and grandmother. She cooks very well, and she loves her children and grandchildren. She is good, generous, and sincere. I like how she treats me. I am very happy to have such a mother-in-law, and I would like to be like her.

My Mother

By Uliana Koriukina Ukraine, Level 1

My mother is a beautiful woman. She is slender and young for her age.

She is 61 years ago. She has short brown hair, green eyes, a small nose, and always she has smile on the face. She gave me knowledge for my life. She helps me raise my children. When I was a small girl, she bought nice clothes for me. Always after work she brought a lot of candies. My mother lives in Ukraine. I very miss her. Every morning I call her. Now I am buying many interesting things to send her. Always I would like hear her voice and see happy eyes. She is for me very smart and strong woman who supports me. I love my mother so much.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS | 9

My Mother

By Iryna Deiak Ukraine, Level 1

I respect a lot of people in my life, but only one is very important for me. She built my character and she gave me knowledge how this world works. She is my mother. Her name is Larysa. She looks attractive, with beautiful face and big green eyes, long eyelashes and expressive smile.

She has brown, straight shoulder-length hair. She is medium height and athletic build. Now she is in her 50s, but she looks very young for her age.

She has a strong character and loves to work. She is a workaholic and overachiever. It is easy to respect a person who can teaches you how to be successful, and my mother is this person.

How I Met My Closest Friend

By Kateryna Shablia Ukraine, Level 1

It is very important to have a best or closest friend. First, when I came to the United States, I have no closest friend, just my cousins and my aunt’s family. I arrived one year ago in a new country. I needed to know a new language. For a few months, I went to the Ukrainian Academy to learn English. In this Academy I met a lot of friends, but my closest friend became my friend Olena. She was my neighbor, but I didn’t know that. Then, when I didn’t have my own car, she took me from the school and drived to my house. We live not far from each other. Now we study English in the same college, in the same class. Finally, I can say, we are the best friends. I am really happy to have such a friend.

How I Met My Closest Friend

By Olena Hrelia Ukraine, Level 1

I met my friend Kate 1 year ago. We went to ESL classes together. It was a very difficult time for me. First I had just came to the USA. All my friends stayed in Ukraine. Then I had to live in a new country. I didn’t know how to speak English or drive a car. I had to learn a lot of things. A few months later I got my driver’s license. After that I found ESL courses. I met a lot of people like me. They also moved to the USA recently. One day, my classmate Kate asked me to take her home. We realized we lived on the same street. We talked a lot all the way home. Then we became best friends. Kate and I have many similar things. For example, we both have daughters, we like to travel, read books, and take beautiful pictures.

10 | ESL Voices

Finally, we decided to go to college to improve our English. I am very happy to have such a good friend in Kate. I am proud of her. I think she will achieve her goals and will speak English well.

A Person Whom I Respect

By Lana Kantonist Ukraine, Level 1

A person whom I respect was my grandfather. Unfortunately, he died. I loved him very much. He was always calm. I can’t remember any situation when he shouted loudly. This never happened. My grandfather was average build and tall. He looked kind. He had hazel eyes, brown hair, and few wrinkles. He always looked neat. My grandfather was an excellent carpenter. He made very beautiful furniture, and he loved his job. He knew a lot of interesting stories. He loved herbal tea, and he picked up herbs himself for it. Another hobby of his was apiculture. Honey was perfect from his apiary. I miss him, and I miss his stories and his tea. I want to be like my grandfather because he was a good example for me.

My Niece

By Tuan Khoi Phan Vietnam, Level 1

I have a beautiful and wonderful little niece. First, her name is Amy, she is 8 years old, and she is very cute. She is average height, but when you compare her to her friends she looks very small. She has long black hair, and I usually comb her hair when she comes to visit me. She has a small round face, on that she has two little cheeks, and they turn red when she plays outside in the snow. She has two big round black eyes.

Second, despite of sometimes she is a little bit of naughty, she has some characteristics other children don’t have at her age. Like, she worries about other family members, for example, whenever we go outside, she always goes with her little brother to make sure he never gets lost, or when you don’t come home as usually you do, she will be nervous and try to call you. Next, when she knows you are having a bad day or look sad, she will go to you and try her best to encourage you, make you feel better, make you happy again. In addition, she always gives her best food or toys to her little brother, and she always helps him do his homework.

She always behaves well behavior, for example, me or any other elder family members tell her should not do or not to do anything, she will do exactly the same as you tell her. I have a little angel at my home right now.

FAMILY AND FRIENDS | 11

An Ordinary Woman

By Roxana Zheng Venezuela, Level 2

First Prizewinner

My mother is very ordinary, she is just a similar mother in millions of families. She loves her husband like every wife, loves her children like every mother. I clearly understand that in this life, my mother is the person I love, appreciate and trust on the most.

My family had a hard time when I wasn’t born yet, but my grandfather always gave the best to his children with his hands, especially my mother.

When she became a mother, she did the same for me. At that time, we didn’t have a supermarket yet, and my parents were still working as laborers. There was no milk for me, so my mother made me porridge with the only rice she had left. She bought me a whole biscuit while she and my dad shared a loaf of bread. They always gave me their best.

I always said my mom was stingy, but what I didn’t know was that she wanted to save for our future, from primary school to work and marriage.

She got up early every morning to make breakfast and lunch for us, and she had to pack up and go to work right away. She was a great sleeper and she could sleep anywhere without jet lag. But she could only take a lunch break of less than half an hour. But she lives each day with a smile and a positive outlook. She was bad tempered, but she would tell me not to stress about my grades and to have a crack. She would ask me to do something for a living, but she wouldn’t force me to pursue her ideal career.

If possible, I would pray to the heavens to turn all of my mom’s gray hair black and smooth out all of her wrinkles. If possible, I would also pray to the sun that we would always be together.

12 | ESL Voices

MY PLACES Y PLACES Two Cities in Ivory Coast

By Ahou Marcelle Victoire Oussou Ivory Coast, Basic

Ivory Coast is a small country. It is in West Africa. Ivory Coast is a beautiful country. Abidjan and Bouake are two cities in Ivory Coast.

Bouke is in the center. It is a quiet city. Bouake is an important city, but it is not the capital of Ivory Coast. Abidjan is the capital of Ivory Coast. It is in the south of the country. Abidjan is very fun and clean. It is a nice city. It is very expensive but there are good jobs. The people in Ivory Coast are very friendly. I love Ivory Coast a lot.

Three Cities in Costa Rica

By Karen Navarro Costa Rica, Basic

Costa Rica is a small country. It is in Central America. Guanacaste, Perez Zeledon and San Jose are three cities in Costa Rica. Guanacaste is on the Pacific Ocean. It has beautiful beaches. Perez Zeledon is in the south. It has nice parks and big mountains. It is an important city, but is not the capital of Costa Rica. San José is the capital of Costa Rica. It is in the center of the country. Costa Rica is the country with the most friendly people in Central America. They say, “Pura Vida.”

A Beautiful City

By Tetiana Fryz Ukraine, Basic

Million of tourists go to Ternopil every year. Many tourists visit during the year. The best temperature for visit a city is June, July, and August.

It is very warm and sunny. In winter is cold, but very beautiful. In these seasons are a perfect time for sightseeing. The tourists come with a list MY PLACES | 13

of things to do. Many people like to take pictures of the Ternopil Lake and the Ternopil Academic Regional Ukrainian Drama Theater. They also like to tour the many old buildings with Austrian architecture. Some tourists visit the Ternopil Regional Museum of Local Lore to look at the Ukrainian national costumes. Others like to walk along the Ternopil Lake and enjoy sunset. I recommend visiting this a beautiful city for everyone who like to enjoy incredible views.

Cities in Iran

By Marzieh Hajiali Iran, Basic

Iran is big country. Tehran and Isfahan are cities in Iran. Isfahan is a big city but it is not capital. Tehran is capital of Iran. Tehran is very busy. Tehran has up to 20 million people. Isfahan is a historical city. Iran has friendly people but don’t have friendly government. Iran has four seasons. In winter you have snow in Tehran but you have hot weather in Kish city or warm weather in Isfahan. Iran has beautiful nature. Iran is in the Middle East.

14 | ESL Voices

Y JOURNEY MY JOURNEY My Decision for the Future

By Andela Lila Albania, Level 1

I had a long time that I was waiting for USCIS approval. I had about 13 years for the first response to the document, but it was difficult to decide to come to America. I applied for an immigration visa in 2006, and my first approval came in 2019. First, I was happy when my big day came because I had my visa in my hand. After that, I started to think about the difficulties that my husband and I will have. Next, we talked about if we could do this, or if we could stay a long distance for about two or three years. Then, we decided that we needed to sacrifice for our future, for our dreams and here we are, he in Albania and I am here but I often go to meet him there. I applied for a visa for him because this is the American rule. We gave them a lot of proof about our relationship. Finally, we are waiting for that day when we are going to be together, and we hope that this wait is ending soon.

My Progress in English

By Iryna Deiak Ukraine, Level 1

The English language is the most popular language in the world. If you can speak fluently in English you are to get good job. If you are traveling to another countries you speak with personnel in hotels, restaurants, etc, because they usually speak in English. I have to study English because I live in country where it is necessary. Unfortunately, when I was child I didn’t study English. In school I studied German. When we moved to the USA, I felt terrible. I didn’t understand people and couldn’t say nothing. I realized that I should study English.

At first, I found Aspire non-credit classes at Tri-C. I studied here about one year. Then, I decided to take credit classes. It was a good choice. I never regretted about it. My ability to understand and speak in English

MY JOURNEY | 15

increase very much. Now, I feel more confident when I speak, I can understand native speakers. I learned so much, I am able to explain my thoughts more clearly. I know how to use future and past time. I know when I need to use articles and modals. I know reading strategies. Finally, I know parts of speech.

All of these things build my knowledge of English language. Also I try to practice my reading skills. Usually, every evening I read books with my son. For improving my speaking skills, I speak with A.I. I know it is weird, but I don’t have American friends. So, my goal for next year is to find someone to practice with. I feel proud of me, and very grateful to our teachers for all my knowledge.

Chasing Fate

By Thayna Felippe Cazetta Brazil, Level 2

He’d always fade the way things go

Wishing for a mate to share the flow.

But life moves on, at its own rate.

In the end, you can’t escape fate.

A Big Change in My Life

By Marwah Koshan Afghanistan, Level 2

Moving to the United States changed my life in many ways that gave me freedom I never had before. Before moving to the United States, my life in Afghanistan had many limits because of the Taliban’s strict rules for women. First, I was not allowed to go to school. The Taliban did not let girls go to school, so I could not pursue my passion for learning. For example, I had to study secretly at home without teachers or books.

If girls were caught studying, they got in trouble. That made learning very risky for them. Secondly, I could not work or participate in society.

The Taliban did not allow women to work outside, so I could not earn money. For instance, even if I wanted to help my family with money, it was impossible. Also, women were not allowed to participate in social events or could not go to social events, which made me feel alone. Third, women were not allowed to travel or drive alone. I could not go anywhere without a male family member. For example, even going to the market needed someone else’s help, stopping me from my own choices. Lastly, there was no support for women’s hobbies. I wanted to play sports and

16 | ESL Voices

be a part of teams, but women were not allowed to participate in such activities. Overall, life under the Taliban had many limits, living without freedom or chances.

After moving to the United States, my life changed in many ways.

I gained the freedom to learn, meet people, and grow in a good and supportive place. First, I was able to continue my education and work towards my dreams. Now I can attend school, learn new subjects, and grow my knowledge every day. For example, I can read books, attend classes, and have teachers who support me. This change has brought me closer to a better future. Second, I can try new hobbies. In the US, I can join a music class and learn to play an instrument. This freedom makes me feel more creative and happier. Third, I can drive and travel on my own. With a driver’s license, I can go where I need to, which gives me a new level of independence. For example, I can visit friends or explore the city on my own. Lastly, I can make friends with people from different cultures. In the US, people can connect with others, and I have met friends who teach me about their languages and traditions. This has helped me grow socially and understand different views. In short, life in the US has given me freedom, independence, and new chances that shape who I am. In conclusion, moving to the US changed my life from one with limits to another with freedom. The limits I had before are gone, and now I can learn, travel, and do the things I enjoy. Looking back, I see that moving to the US has made my life better in many ways, making me more confident and independent of new things.

My Journey to the US

By Coral Guerrero Dominican Republic, Level 3

1. Describe the events that led up to you moving to the U.S.

Well, let’s just say love brought me here! My husband is an American citizen, and he asked me to move with him. My parents were super supportive. They saw this as a wonderful opportunity for me to build a better future. So, with a mix of excitement and nerves, I packed my bags and moved to Cleveland.

2. Describe your journey to the US.

What can I say, it was beautiful but confusing. The snow made everything look like a Christmas postcard, but my brain was still trying to process everything. I felt like a tourist in my own life, new places, new language, new routines. Then came the homesickness. Suddenly, the excitement disappeared, and I missed my family, my friends, and even the warm weather I used to complain about. I also realized that

MY JOURNEY | 17

understanding English was very different from speaking it. Ordering food felt like an impossible mission, one wrong word and I could end up with something completely different!

3. Talk about your first few days and weeks here. What was it like for you?

Picture this: It is December 2025. I step off the plane, and BOOM! snow everywhere! It looked magical, just like in the movies. At first, I was amazed, but then reality hit… Wait, this is COLD! Coming from a warm place, my body was not ready for this. I quickly learned that multiple layers of clothing were not optional but a matter of survival.

4. Talk about your life here now. How is it different from when you first arrived?

Now? I am much more at peace. I have adjusted to the cold (kind of), I feel more independent, and I like where my life is going. I am studying, working, and creating a future I am excited about. I still miss home every day, but now I see this as a new chapter, not just a transition. Moving was a big change, but honestly, I would not change this experience for anything. And something positive, at least now I know how to dress for winter without freezing!

My Path from War to Safety

By Hanna Onyshchenko Ukraine, Level 3

What is life? Every person’s life is such a clean piece of paper that is filled with a story. Henry A. Kissinger’s words immediately pop into my mind: “If you do not know where you are going, every road will get you nowhere.” My life has been a journey of inner fight between past in Ukraine, present in the USA and the uncertain yet future.

Every action has its own effects from the past. My start point of my journey – a crucial period of my life began in Ukraine. I can’t say that I lived a happy life, but at least I was loved, safe and with huge hopes for the future. Everything stopped that very day, on February 24th two years ago. It was an ordinary morning like every other day before that. The war started early in the morning, and this day changed and destroyed everything at one time. It was a hard decision, but we were forced to leave the country.

Leaving Ukraine was only the beginning of our challenging journey to the United States. The process was tough, but we made it through.

18 | ESL Voices

As for the present part, we have been staying in the US for the last two and a half years. You can’t imagine how many different emotions I felt when I got here. Everything seemed wrong and different. My soul ached every day all along. Everyone assumed that I would get used to it. So here I am, like a phoenix rising from the ashes. I feel myself again. I build new plans, I live a new life, created from nothing.

As for the future, Big Brother has its own plans, which can be with a good outcome either bad. As a result of immigration investigations Ukrainian paroles have been suspended. This means that our stay here is in question. I am quite a positive person, but on the other hand I am a realist. So here are two possible scenarios. We can start with the bad one. The program will be closed for good. Any other visas will be unavailable in order to new administration. My family has to be forced back home with no actual home, because we have lost it. And it will end badly. As I mentioned earlier about positivity, let’s look at the good scenario. First, the war in my country will finally be stopped, and my family will be safe and sound. The second, we will actually get familybased visas, that we have been waiting for the last five years. I will graduate, get so desired degree, and become CPA with my own private practice. My kids will get the education they deserve. My husband will run his business without fear of being robbed.

From the heart-breaking decision to leave Ukraine, to the challenging process of starting a new one in the US, and the emotional swings of adjusting. I hold onto my dreams and hope that the best scenario will come true. With all the strength and support of my family I continue to build a better life. This journey for sure shaped me into a stronger person, that is ready to face whatever comes next.

The Important Moments of My Life

By Ahmad Wahid Faizy Afghanistan, Level 3

There are many significant moments in everyone’s life that are not forgeable. Personally, I have experienced three life-changing events such as getting my first job, leaving my home-country, and arriving in the United States. Watershed moments of our life are not predictable.

First, after I graduated from high school, I was unemployed for a long time. There were thousands of jobseekers across Afghanistan.

For example, a construction company’s human resources department announced that they had received more than 1200 resumes for only three civil engineering positions. However, few of the applicants were fortunate to be employed by the government or any construction companies. Fortunately, I found a job with well-paying in a well-known

MY JOURNEY | 19

company. It was an international company that was involved in electromechanical engineering fields. I started working there as electrical engineer that was according to my major.

Secondly, since I had found a good job, I was so optimistic about the future and never considered leaving my home country. I was enjoying my life with our families and friends. On the other hand, when my country was taken over by the worst people, everything was changed, and everyone became disappointed. For instance, hundreds of thousands of people left their money, houses, businesses and even their loved ones to rescue their life. As the situation was getting hard and dangerous, it forced me and many others to leave the country.

Finally, immigration to the United States was looking almost impossible for me. I applied for Special Immigrant Visa or SIV in 2017, but the U.S. president had suspended almost all the immigration cases. My case was suspended for three years, then fortunately in 2021 when Mr. Joe Biden was selected as president of the United States, the Visa Center approved my application. So, after a long time waiting that my visa processes were completed, I arrived in the Washington Airport that was incredible. Once for the first time I stepped onto U.S. soil, I felt calm and relaxed. I was so excited to be in a safe and full of opportunities land. As I had worked with many American companies in Afghanistan, I was aware of living facilities and economic opportunities in the United States. Life really has some good surprises for us.

In conclusion, I never forget the three important moments of my life which are my first job, leaving my home country, and arriving to the United States. Life presents us some unexpected events that have positive or negative impacts on our life cycle.

Changes in My Life Over Time

By Anastasiya Muminova Ukraine, Level 3

My life has been full of interesting periods and events, such as becoming a mother, moving to the US, living in Strongsville now, and making plans for the near future. Each stage is unique and has brought me both happiness and pain. Despite everything, I have tried to be honest and decent, as I have always had great support from God and my family.

First, I would like to share my most touching moment in life as the birth of a child. With the appearance of my daughter Milana in my life, I realized that it brings many changes, but also brings great pleasure and responsibility. From the first seconds of our acquaintance with Milana, I saw that she was the greatest joy that I had. Even after a difficult birth,

20 | ESL Voices

I slept with her all night and did not let her go. When she grew up, I tried to spend as much time with her as possible to see all her achievements.

Milana brought me a lot of happiness, because I felt that every morning she smiled at me, regardless of how I looked or for some things. I liked playing different games every day, walking, doing homework, communicating, etc. My love for Milana is an unconditional love that will always be with me.

Secondly, moving to a new country because of the war in my homeland. This decision was not easy, but I had to do it, because there were battles, there were a lot of bombs and shelling. This war changed the lives of all Ukrainians and brought a lot of suffering and pain. To be honest, for the first year I couldn’t even concentrate because I cried every day. However, I had to be decisive and effective, because everything is different in a new country.

Next, my daughter and I arrived in Strongsville, Ohio, because my sister lives here with her family. Therefore, the choice of place to live was chosen here. We had to adapt to all the changes - everything was new here, starting with the language barrier and ending with the school for my daughter. I got a job at a store, enrolled in college for language courses, which brought me a lot of pleasure. Over time, our friendly family grew, because I gave Milana a ginger cat Mason. It was a conscious gift for her, so that it would be easier for her to get used to everything new. We also often visited various interesting places, such as art centers, museums, exhibitions and an orchestra.

Then, I always make plans for the future to have a clear list of actions in all areas of life, such as how I can be useful to society, professional activities, family, friends, health, career, development and spirituality.

The most important thing, what I really want most now is peace in my homeland and in the whole world. I pray every day with my family about this, we often go to church, help people who are at the front, as well as affected shelters with animals. Of course, I plan to live in this country, because I loved it as my own. I like to study, I plan to be a nurse, buy my own housing for my daughter.

In the end, I am sure that all the changes that have happened to me recently have happened for a reason, because they have made me stronger and more determined. I have enjoyed or struggled with every stage of my life - I was blessed when my wonderful daughter Milana was born, I cried with my people when the war started and I moved to another country, where I was able to adapt to a new life in the USA, go to study and work, building my future in peace and love. These experiences show the life I am living now

MY JOURNEY | 21

HOWOW TO TO How to Start a Restaurant Business

By Alla Bakalets Ukraine, Level 1

If you want to start successful restaurant business, follow these short steps. First of all, make a business plan. You have to know how much money do you need, or how much you can spend. Second, find the best location. It should be location near a main road or somewhere where are many people. You need a big parking lot. Then, create a marketing plan and think about advertising strategies. You have to share information about your café as many people as you can. After that, find good employees, who can provide high quality service with customers. The next step is writing a menu. Make a menu with a new team. It is a good way to hear fresh things and ideas. At the end, create a delivery system to the customers. Starting the business can be challenging, so be patient.

Ways to Relax

By Omar Al Nadi USA, Level 2

There are many ways for relaxing, because it helps people to recover from their hard work. First, body relaxation is one of the best ways to recover. For example, sports and outside activities, as well as sleeping, help the body to heal and make negative energy go away from the body.

Usually, when I play soccer with my friends, all the negative energy goes away, I feel like a kid. Time runs without life’s worries. Second, brain relaxation, such as staying alone and singing, also helps to recover and free the mind. For example, when I sing loudly, I feel the same feeling of no worries. In addition, finding time or routine to relax is not easy. Finding the best time for the body and brain to relax is important. For example, I always leave myself half an hour before I go to sleep to do my routine.

Forcing the self is one of the best ways to have it as a routine. To sum up, relaxing is important for people in all ways, physically and mentally.

22 | ESL Voices

Language Conqueror

By Roxana Zheng Venezuela, Level 2

As a Chinese-Venezuelan who speaks 3 languages and growing up in a dual language environment, my linguistic journey has taught me some valuable strategies that I would like to share with some language explorers. I hope these tips will guide you. To learn a new language, it’s important that you can listen, read and speak well. So first, find your preference way in how to learn a new language. For example, if you like watching varieties of shows or movies you can watch them in the language that you want to study. If you like listening to music, listen to it in the language that you want to learn. You won’t get bored and suffer if you combine your hobbies with learning a new language. Second, immerse yourself completely in a new language environment and try to imitate the native speakers. You might get confused about this step, think back to when we were born, we didn’t speak our first language, we just imitated our elders. We didn’t study grammar to be able to speak. Next, study grammar and writing by applications or doing some practices, if you want to write a good paragraph or essay. Grammar might seem boring but it’s the most important factor in a language. Imagining you are building a house, it’s important to have good foundations.

Finally, never be afraid to speak and make mistakes. You have to keep in mind that the mistakes are fuel on our new linguistic journey. Try to communicate with native speakers to let them correct you and you will also find your mistakes. These are the 4 important steps you need to take in your language adventure.

My Journey with Processes of Learning English

By Assem Muamin Sudan, Level 2

Learning English is not as difficult as many people think. I have been through this process, and I have learned a lot of English. It wasn’t as difficult as I thought. You just need to follow a few steps to learn it. First, if you have problems remembering some words you can lock your phone by those words and change them weekly. This helps me a lot to remember the words that are hard for me to remember. Second, I think spelling is the most difficult one because at some point it works with no rules. I always found it hard because the language that I use (Arabic) most time works with rules. Because of the ways that I have started to use, I feel my spelling getting better. Next, to improve your reading start reading paragraphs and books or any word that you could find. I read HOW TO | 23

any word that I could face also books and more things that could be readable. Listening to music can improve your listening, I listen to music and my favorite song is (TJA). I think speaking is the easiest to practice as long as you open your mouth it doesn’t matter who are you talking to even if yourself. Finally, learning a new language is a process every day you can learn new things and it depends on whether you want to learn, or you have to, both ways may look the same, but they are different. If you have to learn it may take you more time, but if want to learn it will be easy for you, and you will have fun learning it. At first, the time I arrived in America I had to learn English it was difficult and boring. I changed that idea to I want to learn English this way it became more fun for me. For everyone who needs to learn English. It’s not difficult you just have to say I want to learn English, not I have to, and you will get it done.

24 | ESL Voices

N AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY UNFORGETTABLE DAY My First Day in the U.S.

By Olena Velhiv Basic, Ukraine

My first day in the U.S. was very interesting and chaotic. At 10:00 p.m., we flew to the U.S. After that, we were taken to customs control, where we were for two hours. Later, my husband met us. We flew with our friend’s mom, but when we left security, she was nowhere to be found.

My husband and his friend went to find the friend’s mom. My husband went outside, and his friend went inside. At this time when they found the mom, I and my daughter were very tired, and she wanted to cry. But after a couple of minutes, my husband found his friend’s mom, and we were so happy because we came home. In the next morning, we went to our home in Cleveland, and we were so tired and hungry. At 8:00 a.m., we had breakfast and went to sleep. I will never forget this day because it was a good and interesting experience.

My Dream Come True

By Nadiia Andriiuk Ukraine, Level 1

For several years, I dreamed of seeing “Ocean Elzy” live in concert and this dream finally became a reality. It was one wonderful morning. I woke up and opened my Instagram. I saw that Ukrainian band group was going to come to Cleveland. Then, I was little sad because there were not so many tickets, and they were expensive. I thought that I would not be able to attend this event again. I forgot about it and went to make breakfast for my family. But later, my husband decided to surprise me. He gave me two tickets. I was looking forward to meeting the group. I thought I would go with my husband, but my son was sick at that time. Then, I offered my AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY | 25

daughter to go with me. She was surprised. That evening we sang and danced at the concert. We remembered many Ukrainian songs. I was so excited, and I hope my next dream will come true too.

Worst Day of My Life

By Yuliia Podpriadova Ukraine, Level 1

It was a very hard day. It was February 24, 2022. Russia started a war in Ukraine. It was early in the morning, when everyone slept. We woke up because it was very loud. First, my husband went for the car. Then, we took the documents, some clothes, and a little food for kids. After that, we dressed our kids, and they took their favorite toys. Next, we got in the car, and we tried to drive out of our favorite city. We drove 6 hours. It was a difficult road. We had a very big stress. Finally, we came to our friends in Kyiv. It was the worst day in my life. I was never at home.

The Scariest Day in My Life

By Rasha Alabeed Syria, Level 2

So much terror lives inside me as a woman from the Middle East, specifically from Syria. I will not talk about the war. The sounds of shells, blood, bitterness of hunger, and the loss of loved ones. As a mother of three children, I will not talk about the horror of the moments of childbirth that women experience. As a young girl, I will not talk about the bad situations that I was exposed to, only to discover when I grew up how terrifying they were. Today, I will only talk about the black cat that turned my life upside down. When we were living in a small house in Jordan, it had big windows. The house was strange, and we used to hear the sounds of cats at night and see them during the day. I have always hated cats. In this house, we used to open the window when we slept.

On a summer night that I will never forget, I was sleeping when a strange feeling crept into me that someone was watching me. I opened my eyes carefully to find a big black shadow in the window. I felt terrified and when I got up, this shadow jumped towards me. I screamed, so everyone in the house woke up. And I told my husband that it was a big black cat that entered the house through the window. Meanwhile, my husband searched all over the house and did not find anything. I hate cats very much. How can a cat reveal to you how fragile you are inside? How much everything you have been through in your life is still stuck inside you, forming your personality and affecting your actions! We do not move on or forget. We just put the terrifying things aside and try to control them before they control our lives.

26 | ESL Voices

Best Day of My Life

By Kawsar Koshani Afghanistan Level 2

The best day of my life was when my website won first place in a competition. It goes back four years when I was in 11th grade. At that time, one-year coding courses were held at our school by the Womanity Foundation, and I joined the course. At the end of the semester, we had to create a website. I started creating a website for a hospital. I spent days and nights writing the code. My teacher was a kind woman. She liked my ideas and always encouraged me. Finally, the day of the website presentation arrived. I was very excited but also very stressed because there were many talented people there. When it was my turn, I presented my website. The day the results were announced started as a normal day.

I woke up early, had breakfast as usual, and got ready to go to the course.

When I arrived at the classroom, no one was there. I was shocked and wondered where everyone had gone. Then my teacher and classmates entered the classroom holding a cake that said, “ Congratulations.” I was surprised and asked, “What is the congratulations for?” My teacher said, “Your website has won first place!” I was so happy. It was an amazing feeling to see all my hard work recognized with such a reward. I learned that when we love something and put our heart and soul into it, we will surely get good results. This was one of the best days of my life, and I will never forget it.

My First Time Taking Trails in the USA

By Vasyl Boichuk Ukraine, Level 2

I have really enjoyed riding a bike since I was six years old. That’s why I bought a new bike and went to take trails for the first time in the U.S. I loaded my bike in the car and went to Reagan Park in Medina because of my friend’s advice. After I got there, I was really excited and filled full of energy. Soon I rode through my first trail and began to feel how a new bike rides. A few more turns and dips and I totally recalled how I did it in my teens. My heart started beating faster and adrenalin went up through my veins. After a while, I got to a first steep hill, likely it was a shortcut which I chose instead. Then I met a couple of guys on the trail who also struggled on some hills. Finally, I reached the end of the trail and drank a full bottle of water because I was really thirsty. It was really cool and exciting time, and I can’t wait to ride the trails again.

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY | 27

A Box of Frogs at School

By Alessi Unain Ivory Coast, Level 3

One day a boy named Jacque decided to play a prank by releasing a box of frogs into the library school hoping to create chaos. However, I found the box of frogs instead. So I gently gathered them and took the frogs out to the school’s compound. My classmates saw what I was doing and came over to watch. I shared my knowledge about frogs, and this helped me to make new friends. Normally, I was quiet, but caring for the frogs gave me confidence.

Jacque was hiding and watching the whole time. He was surprised by what happened. Instead of causing trouble, his prank helped me come out of my shell and make friends. Jacque felt inspired by my kindness and decided to change his ways. He started helping others, realizing that even unexpected actions can lead to good results.

In the end, my love for animals and gentle nature not only saved the frogs but also created a positive and kind atmosphere at the school.

A Memorable Trip to Mt. Washington

By Volodymyr Hunko Ukraine, Level 2

In 2023, my family, my friends and I decided to climb Mt. Washington in New Hampshire. I’ve been on that mountain before, and I like it, so I decided to show it to my friends and family. There were five of us, my wife, son, and two of my friends. First of all, we booked a house not far from the mountain. The house was located in Maine, but it was really close to Mt. Washington. After the house was reserved, we made other preparations, and by the end of August 2023, we were ready to take the road.

We woke up early in the morning and started out trip to New Hampshire. We were driving for 14 hours to get to our destination. We were switching drivers during the road because it was too difficult for one person to drive for such a long time. We arrived in the middle of the night and spent a night in our house. Next morning, we woke up early and after a short breakfast we left the house. We went to the parking lot near Mt. Washington and left our car there.

We started to climb the mountain around 8 a.m. The weather was great, and we felt ambitious. After a few hours, the weather became a little bit worse, but we didn’t expect rain. After we had climbed two thirds of the trail, we met other climbers who were on their way down. They told 28 | ESL Voices

us that the weather was getting worse, and we would have to go back.

We decided to not listen to them and to proceed with our climb. When we were on the last mile, the weather became awful. The wind was around 47 miles per hour, it was raining, and we weren’t able to continue our way.

We found a shelter on our map not far from the summit and went there.

We were tired, wet, and frustrated because we couldn’t return to our car.

The shelter wasn’t equipped with any lights or heating, but at least we had a roof.

Finally, on the next day, we returned to our car. Climbing downhill took more time than climbing uphill because everything was wet and slippery.

After this experience, we became stronger and decided that we want to climb more mountains.

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY | 29

EMORIES MEMORIES Time When My Dream Became True

By Igor Zavgorodnii Ukraine, Level 1

There have been many interesting moments in my life, but I want to tell you about my dream that came true. Let me introduce myself. My name is Igor, I have a wonderful family! I have two children and wife whom I adore. I am happy. When I was eighteen, I fell in love with a girl. We met at a party, it was love at first sight. At some point I began to dream about her becoming my wife. Before I decided to take this important step, we dated for a very long time. I realized that we complement each other and finally I proposed to her. And of course, she said yes. After that, there was preparation for the wedding. We thought out everything down to the smallest detail. Before the ceremony we walked in the park for a long time and took a lot of photos in memory. After the ceremony, we went to a restaurant and celebrated our event with our loved ones. We were happy. After so many years of living together, I can say that my biggest dream came true on this day.

When You Help Someone

By Barsha Subedi Nepal, Level 2

On Feb. 14th, 2021, while I was visiting Nepal with some friends for a trip, we decided to visit a famous temple called Raja-Rani during a festival. It was a beautiful day, but the temple was located at the top of a hill. To reach it, we had to climb 180 steps. When we started climbing the steps, we saw an old lady struggling to carry her belongings and climb the stairs. She was so upset. We understood she was having a hard time climbing stairs. We went near her and tried to talk with her and asked if we could help her. She looked at us, smiled, and said yes. Some of my friends carried her belongings and me and one friend held her hand and helped her to go up the steps. While we were climbing, we asked why

30 | ESL Voices

she was struggling to do this because everyone knows it’s so hard to go up the steps and reach the temple. She started telling a story about her husband and how every five years he brought her there to show the temple and why she wanted to visit it. We got emotional and felt bad for her situation, so we asked her about her kids. She told us her kids were abroad. We felt sorry for her. After talking for more than an hour while we climbed the stairs, we were so happy to finally reach the destination we wanted. She cried and thanked us for helping. We felt blessed and happy for helping her. We started enjoying the views, and the peace that the temple has, and how people were praying.

A Home in Memory

By Mariia Butsiak Ukraine, Level 3

Second Prizewinner

I think that in the memory of every person there is one of a place with deep and special meaning. For me, it is the most beautiful home of me and my parents and the village where my happy, carefree childhood passed. At the age of 15, I went to study, I came home only on weekends.

After graduating from college, I was immediately sent to work at a school again far from home, where I lived in an apartment. I also visited my parents’ home only on weekends, which I missed very much.

Years and days flew by very quickly, the time comes when you need to leave your parents’ nest filled with love and create your own. When I got married, we tried to visit my parents more often, especially when they needed help. Every time in my parents’ home, my sisters and I remembered interesting childhood years. We looked at family photos, walked along familiar paths. We went to the forest to pick various berries and mushrooms. Every time I remember how good it was to come to people dear to our hearts where everything is your own. Now I really miss all this, because I only have the opportunity to communicate on the phone and look at their photos. And I really want to come to my parents, hug them, sit together at the family table and feel that parental love.

Because there is nothing dearer than a parental home, which is always filled with warmth and dear memories. Every time I think about it, I feel a mixture of nostalgia and gratitude, knowing that this home will always be a part of me.

A special place in my memory also belongs to the house of my grandparents, who were eagerly awaiting our arrival. Their sincere, gentle old look has remained in my memory to this day. When we visited their house, they always waited for us at the gate with open arms: “Speaking to us: our little birds have arrived, which is impossible to remember MEMORIES | 31

without tears.” Grandfather immediately took us to his large garden, treating us to cherries, apples, and pears that he tended and planted himself. Meanwhile, grandmother tried to prepare something delicious for us with her skillful hands. During dinner, they told various instructive stories and sang old songs. They paid special attention to their greatgrandchildren, thanking God for waiting for them. Inside the house there was a wooden floor that creaked softly with every step. In the corner of the room stood a large old stove that we loved to climb into in the winter to warm ourselves when we were little. The walls were covered with old family photos and icons, each photo telling a story of love and tradition.

Grandma and Grandpa are gone, but I remember their love, kindness, and wise life advice to this day.

So let’s remember our homes and people close to us, because this is the most beautiful thing that leaves good memories, taking us back to childhood, giving us pleasant memories for a lifetime.

32

Y FUTURE MY FUTURE My Life in the Next Five Years

By Nadiia Andriiuk Ukraine, Level 1

I think many major events will happen in the next five years. I am going to graduate from college and find a job. I hope that this work will be related to medicine. I like medicine, especially pediatrics. But I understand that I need a lot of time if I am going to be a doctor. Also, if my family can stay in the USA we are going to buy a house. We dream about having our own house and a little dog. In future I would like to try something interesting and fun, maybe parachute jumping or diving, or something like that. My family plans to travel a lot and see many interesting places. And one of my biggest plans is to meet my relatives.

I hope my parents receive their tourist visas and will come here. But if it will not be possible, I am going to visit Ukraine. I hope our life in America will turn out well.

My Life in Five Years

By Keita Issiaka Ivory Coast, Level 1

I plan to improve my skill through ESL classes and practical experiences in automotive technology. After my ESL class, I will enroll in an automotive technology program. I will be working in the automotive industry to develop my skills. After my graduation, I will take a two-year internship with a major automotive company like Ford, Chevrolet, or Kia. Then my goal is to specialize in automotive electronics. Next, I will be equipped to diagnose and repair electronic systems in vehicles with advanced technology. After obtaining my experience, I will return to my country, Ivory Coast. My plan is to create my own automotive electronics company in Ivory Coast. However, I will stay updated on the latest automotive technologies. I want to be a leader in the automotive electronics in my country. Finally, I believe that my international experience will be beneficial for my country.

MY FUTURE | 33

ERSPECTIVES PERSPECTIVES Life in a Refugee Camp

By Rahul Subedi Level 3, Nepal

Third Prizewinner

Life in a Bhutanese refugee camp has been miserable for two decades following the human and civil rights movement in Bhutan in the late 1980s. The Bhutanese government forcefully displaced many families, forbidding them from observing religious festivals or wearing Nepali traditional dress. The government enforced laws “one country, one nation” to unify the country per Druk culture, religion, and language, requiring all citizens to wear the national Bhutanese dress in offices, schools, and meetings (University of Utah). In response, Nepali-speaking Bhutanese protested to preserve their culture. In the early 1990s, mass displacement caused large numbers of Nepali-speaking Bhutanese to cross the Indian border and seek refuge in Nepal. The Nepali-speaking Bhutanese who fled their country settled in seven refugee camps across eastern Nepal with the help of the UN. Our lives in the refugee camp depend heavily on aid from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other non-governmental organizations. Life in the Bhutanese refugee camps was miserable because of prolonged years of hardships, limited resources, scarcity, inadequate healthcare, limited education, and even starvation.

Have you ever wondered about life in a refugee camp? Probably not. Let me tell you, life in a refugee camp is unimaginable and full of hardship. After being exiled from Bhutan, our parents took refuge in Nepal. Many families struggled to survive during the initial period of settlement in refugee camps. The United Nations and other NGOs provide aid to refugee camps, but it is insufficient for every family. We had to live in a small house made up of bamboo and thatch (straw) or plastic sheets in a very crowded community. Almost all refugees in the camp were unemployed, and there was no medium to generate income, and people were not allowed to work outside the refugee camps. There

34 | ESL Voices

is limited opportunity for refugees to generate income, like working in the community, selling goods, and doing light labor, but it did not generate as much income to survive. Even though hardship hits everyone in a refugee camp, everyone is ready to help each other.

Healthcare is an essential part of our lives. Quality healthcare is not a part of Bhutanese refugees. Although refugee camps had health clinics with limited resources, clinics were staffed with few professional medical doctors, and all other staff working at health clinics had no minimum education or medical background. Medical supplies in health centers are minimal to care for minor illnesses. There is no advanced medical equipment, medicines, or other infrastructure like hospital supplies to treat serious illnesses. For example, my friend’s sister passed away due to pneumonia. At first, they provided painkillers to reduce fever, but later the health condition got worse, and the health clinic referred her to a regional hospital for treatment, but she did not make it. There are several cases of a family losing their loved ones due to a lack of proper treatment and negligence from health clinic staff.

Furthermore, nutrition is equally essential in our lives alongside clean water and sanitation. Bhutanese refugees get aid from the World Food Organization (WFO), World Health Organization (WHO), UNHCR, and other NGOs. As a part of the ration, all families in camps get rice, lentils, oil, vegetables, kerosene, and more. Even though rations are provided, it is insufficient; many families with larger family members struggle to keep supply last until the next ration is distributed, and it leads to starvation.

The ration might quench the hunger, but the deficiency in essential nutrition led to malnutrition and well-being. There are many cases in refugee camps where children born are underweight and malnourished.

Access to clean water is another critical issue in refugee camps. They have access to a basic supply of clean water, but it does not meet the needs of an overcrowded population. Due to the lack of sewage systems and proper sanitation, many families are victims of waterborne diseases like diarrhea. Lack of sanitary supplies and handwashing stations across the refugee camps: diseases spread quickly in overcrowded populations.

In addition, another essential thing in our lives is education. All Bhutanese refugees had access to education, but due to the lack of resources, the education system in refugee camps faces challenges with limitations. Classrooms are so small and overcrowded with a lack of essential educational supplies, limited teachers, and adequate training.

The education system in refugee camps was funded by CARITAS Nepal. They provide educational supplies such as books, textbooks, and classroom furniture, but they are all insufficient. All refugees can study up to 10th grade. Students seeking higher education outside of a refugee camp need to pay out of pocket to fund their education. Nearly all families in refugee camps struggle to send their child or children to higher education due to insufficient income and no further educational

PERSPECTIVES | 35

aid from the UN and other NGOs. Significant numbers of students need to seek employment outside the refugee camp to generate income for their higher education. Hundreds of students need to seek employment outside the refugee camp to generate income for their higher education.

Despite limited resources and a lack of educational funding, hundreds of students can still pursue their studies. Even though after completing their higher education, most students do not get jobs, this leads to unemployment.

Bhutanese refugees were exiled from their country and sought refuge in Nepal with the help of the United Nations. Bhutanese refugees are forcibly fleeing from their country as Bhutan’s government implements ‘one nation, one country’ to unify Druk culture. As a result, our family left their country and lived in a refugee camp for two decades. Life in a refugee camp is challenging and full of hardship, lack of proper education, access to proper healthcare, clean water, and nutrition.

Gender Equality and Social Justice is Relevant Today

By Viktoria Netrebiak Ukraine, Level 3

Gender equality and social justice are extremely popular topics today. People are still protesting for their rights and many of them are discriminated against. According to book “March” there was significant racism during the Civil Rights Movement and people were violent and they fought for their rights. (Lewis & Aydin) During this time, society were very segregated. They were not able to work, to vote or even to go in restaurants. People were oppressed by the government. Gender equality and social justice are still important today because issues like workplace discrimination, unequal pay, and gender-based violence continue to affect people, showing that we need to keep protesting for equality for everyone.

Workplace discrimination is really common today. Women continue to earn less than man for the same work, and they are underrepresented in leadership roles. If people came to the job interview, it is more likely that the man will be hired than woman. On my opinion the book “March” claims that people who are Black earned less money than Whites and they worked even harder. Eventually, people began to protest against these injustices, which led to significant hostilities. As a result of these efforts, people who are Black gained more equality and now have the opportunity to work alongside people who are White in the same roles.

36 | ESL Voices

Gender-based violence is still a significant issue today. Gender-based violence, including domestic abuse and sexual harassment, remains a widespread issue. There are many families where children are abused by their parents. Or it can be outside the house. People can be victims of abuse anywhere. There are also a lot of situations when women tolerate harassment from man. For example, in “March” during the Civil Rights Movement, women like Diana Nash and others played pivotal roles in organizing protests, but they often encountered sexual harassment.

Additionally, according to pages 107-111, the book shares the story of Fannie Lou Hamer and abuse she endured. Hamer was brutally beaten and sexually assaulted while in jail, an example of how women who is Black faced not only racial discrimination but also gender-based violence as they fought for their rights. In my opinion, this still being a problem today, and people are trying to purge this violence.

Near to these problems are Transgender Rights. Transgender individuals still face discrimination in various areas, from healthcare to employment. Ensuring gender equality means advocating for the rights of genders, including transgender people, to live without fear of violence or marginalization. Sometimes people who are transgender can even be even oppressed by anybody. I think, they can just walk down the street and be hit by the people who do not like transgender people. This situation mirrors the experiences of people who are Black during the Civil Rights Movement, people were often attacked or harmed just for living their lives. In my opinion, this is a clear violation of equality. People need to show more kindness and empathy toward one another, and society must work toward creating a more equal world for everyone.

All these problems are very widespread today. Critics may argue that significant progress has already been made in terms of gender equality, with woman having access to higher education, leadership positions, and legal protections that were unavailable in the past. Therefore, they might claim that gender equality is less urgent than other contemporary social issues. For example, some people may argue that current social justice movement should prioritize issues like racial equality, climate change, or economic inequality. Other people might argue that social attitudes toward gender have already shifted significantly with greater acceptance of diverse gender identities and more inclusive policies in many parts of the world. For them, gender equality may seem less relevant than it was in the past. However, it is crucial to recognize that true equality has not yet been fully achieved, as gender-based disparities persist in areas such as pay, representation, and violence.

I agree that we have more important problems in the world. But when, if not today, will we try to solve the problems with gender equality and social justice? It is dependent on how much people want it and if they are motivated. If we do not take action, these problems will only continue to grow, eventually leading to situations similar to those seen during the

PERSPECTIVES | 37

Civil Rights Movement. It could be a lot of causality or hostilities. This could result in widespread casualties, heightened hostility, and even conflict between individuals and nations. Ultimately, I believe that these issues are just as important as any other.

In conclusion, gender equality and social justice are relevant today.

However, progress has been made. We don’t have racism like in the book “March.” We don’t have segregated places and people have many more rights now, then during the Civil Rights Movement. People do not need to fight for being served at the restaurant, or to get a ticket to the cinema, or to be able to vote, because they are different. In many ways, people are freer now than during the time of institutionalized racism.

In the Civil Rights Movement was big problem with equality and social justice. People worked tirelessly to address these issues, protested for their freedom, and spoke out everywhere. We also can remove today’s problem only if everybody will do something for this; When people engage in conversations about these issues and share information globally, change is possible. If we work together, these problems will no longer be relevant in the future.

38 | ESL Voices

40 | ESL Voices