Hoa N. has been studying English since her high school days in Hue, Vietnam. She practiced medicine in Vietnam and arrived in the US in the 1990s. Her commitment to learning continues as she improves her English through ACC’s ESOL Program after retiring from a career in healthcare.

For Hoa, speaking has been an especially important area for growth. She says the program has made a noticeable difference in her communication. “Before taking ESOL, I felt my English was OK, but now I feel more confident and knowledgeable because I learned a lot in my ESOL classes.” Hoa has completed one semester of Oral Communication 4 and looks forward to taking more classes in other skill areas, particularly in Reading and Vocabulary.

Her enthusiasm for learning extends well beyond the classroom. In her free time, Hoa goes to the gym and studies English, Vietnamese, and computer and technology topics.

Hoa’s advice to other ESOL students is to “Take as many classes as you can to improve your English language skills.”

Most of all, Hoa’s experience reflects a philosophy she hopes to share with others: “Lifelong learning is the key to personal growth, no matter what age you are.”