Student Spotlight: Sebastian
1. What would you like to tell us about yourself?
I am from Colombia and have been here now in the US for 7 months. I came here because my wife got a scholarship to study at UW (philosophy). In Medellin, worked for a subsea contractor (construction under water) using divers. Not all companies have saturation divers, but we did, so that distinguished my company from others. I worked as a purchase coordinator. I also like to work with coffee.
2. Why did you decide to take classes at Literacy Source?
I can speak English, but if I want to work, it’s different. When we arrived, my wife had her life solid, but I didn’t have a plan, so I started trying to take some classes in English. I went to the library and found that the library has a conversation circle every week. The teacher, Julie taught me about Literacy Source and then I came here. They gave me a test, and I started (taking classes) with Niusha. She introduced me to Sofie and to Sarah and Janelle (my tutor). We worked trying to find a job for me.
3. What has your experience been in the class you are taking at Literacy Source?
I’m so happy to have these classes because it’s like, I can talk with someone. I moved here but I don’t know anybody, so my friends are the people in my classes. We can share the experience of the day in class. That helps. Niusha is always interested in what you are doing. She always asks everyone how their day is, how their work is.
4. What is something you have learned and why is it important to your life?
English! And I’m meeting a lot of people here; really good people here. People that want to help you, and don’t care about getting something in return. They don’t want something from you.
5. What are your goals or hopes for the future?
My goal is to have a professional job here. I don’t really care about the money; I just want to know that I can speak really good English.