My First Day at SPSCC
When I think about my new life in the United States, I cannot separate it from my life at SPSCC. They started almost at the same time. Just a few months after I arrived in America, I stepped onto the campus of South Puget Sound Community College in Olympia for the first time. It was the beginning of a big change in my life. I was a completely different person at that time. I was a 60-year-old woman from Ukraine who had lost her home, career and everything because of the war. I didn’t speak English at all. I had never used a computer. I felt scared and helpless. I didn’t believe I could learn a new language and I was afraid someone would speak to me in English and I would not understand.
On my first day of SPSCC, I had to take a placement test. It was the first time I used a computer. Even simple actions such as clicking with a mouse or choosing an answer was difficult for me. But from the very beginning, I met kind and friendly people – teachers, staff. I realized that I was not alone. I was also amazed by the campus. The buildings were beautiful and full of light. There were big windows, modern art everywhere, and tall green trees around us. But what impressed me the most was the warmth of the people. The staff and teachers were very patient, kind and supportive. I felt welcome. SPSCC became a place where I was not afraid to walk mistakes or ask questions.
Today, I work as a caregiver helping American families who need support; I can speak English with my clients, I answer phone calls, understand my supervisor’s instructions, I can pay for food online and in stores.
In conclusion, my first day at SPSCC was the start of a new chapter in my life. It was a day of challenge and hope at the same time. SPSCC gave me knowledge, support and belief that I could build a new life. Now, when I walk through the campus, I feel like I am home. I belong to this community.
