“I was born and raised in the city of Aleppo to a simple family of six members. I learned and worked in the fields of teaching and community work, especially during the war before I left for the first time coming to Lebanon since more than a year and a half ago. I chose this field because I loved the Arabic language since childhood and I believe in its ability and the importance of preserving it. Since my arrival to Lebanon and my attempts to find a job or an educational opportunity I faced many difficulties with the language due to the great difference between the Lebanese and Syrian educational systems. My grammar skills were not weak but I was having great difficulty when I had to speak English to anyone. The HEEAP course within the HOPES project gave me a lot of encouragement to speak more English, which helped me to develop my overall language skills. I have been able to follow pages and websites in English, which has given me more opportunities and experiences. Language is the key to many doors in our time, and the majority of educational and professional opportunities require that a person have the ability to speak at least two languages. Language helps to increase knowledge and develop the ability to search and see the many resources which are only published in English. I am seeking to enhance my English language more and more, and to take the IELTS exam in order to achieve my ambition to continue my studies, and get better career opportunities. I consider fear as the greatest obstacle against learning, which we must not give up to. And I advise students who are facing the same difficulties to insist on learning and never stop trying even if they failed many times.”
By Samah Kharmanda
2019
