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Unlike the Somalis who made it to Europe or North America, the ones who stayed back in the developing nations, had to struggle on a daily basis. It was a blessing to merely survive from dawn to dusk. There was no greater priority! In times like these, education was nothing but something only the rich could attain. I would often dwell on the idea of achieving a high school diploma, and perhaps someday go to college. Years after years, this dream of mine remained unfulfilled. After spending few years in Kenya, my family and I relocated to India, where I was exposed to English and the beauty of education. However, without any formal educational background, it was impossible to enroll in school and be placed among students who were of my age. However, my desire to go to school was still strong and living in India, where education is valued, only made it stronger. It was in India where I began to realize the importance of education and how education could change one's life. I have always known that I wanted more out of life. I wanted a stable life and a better future for myself and my loved ones. I wanted to think outside the box, be educated. And, most importantly, be a productive part of my community. I knew education was the path to achieve these, and other, goals Thus, I sought education. I have never had a formal education. I never went to school until I came to America in 2006. Here I was, a 19 year-old woman, without a high school diploma and little education. In India, most of the youth envision America to be the land of opportunity and a place where everyone has the potential to achieve the American Dream every immigrant cherishes. I was determined to be educated and to achieve my goals. I knew I would make it; I just had to run the extra mile. I enrolled in a GED program in September of 2006, and started learning English and other vital subjects such as math and science. I have never been as frustrated as I was during this period of time. However, I soon realized that this process was not only frustrating but also enriching. I could literally feel my small world expanding in terms of ideas, vocabulary and the ability to understand others cultures. In May of 2007 I started my love affair with Montgomery College. I obtained my GED diploma in here, without the slightest hint that I would pass the test and eventually become a student at this great institution. I started my official classes here in the fall of 2007. Ever since, my life has changed! When I read signs that proudly display words like “Montgomery College: Endless possibilities,” I know instantly in my heart that these words are nothing but the absolute truth! It is here that I attended my kindergarten, high school and college. Today, not only am I able to read, write and speak English, but am also part of the Renaissance Scholars program at MC. I have come a long way from being the uneducated 19 year-old to the 22 year-old college student that I am now. All this would have never been possible without the strong dedication of my father, family, and professors and, certainly, Montgomery College. I highly doubt that without Montgomery College I would have achieved any of my accomplishments. Here, I have met the most wonderful people I know and, most importantly, professors who really care and are willing to help if you are willing to put in the work. All my professors will forever hold a dear place in my heart for, without them, I could not have been able to be where I am today. Halima Ali Ahmed _________________________________________________________________________________ We welcome the submission of all articles for possible publication on WardheerNews.com |
