My name is Raghed David Shamieh. I am a 28 year old student at McNeese State University in the English as a Second Language International curriculum. My purpose in coming to the United States was to improve and develop my English skills in order to have more opportunities professionally. It is very important in the world today to be proficient in the proper use of English. My hope in taking this program was to open more doors for me in the business world.

When I left my home in Jerusalem, my English skills were like a small seed. However, with the ESLI program this small seed grew to become a tree with strong roots. The intense curriculum of grammar, writing, speaking and listening, reading, and intensive skills, was challenging and successful in teaching me the proper use of English.

In conclusion, I left everything behind in my country, to come to the United States to improve myself. I am thankful to the ESLI program, to the director, and to the teachers who have helped me to begin this process of developing better English skills. In addition, the teachers helped us to learn about the culture and customs of the U.S. by explaining how to enjoy as well as be safe doing every day activities and during special celebrations. This enabled us to feel a part of this country and not like an outsider.

Shamieh, Raghed Daoud - Palestine