I first left Russia five years ago. I was a guest in my daughter’s home. I didn’t know the English alphabet yet. My relatives made it possible for me to learn English at Acton’s evening school. My first teacher was Rut. I had sixteen lessons and then I went back to Russia for three years.

After that, I went to my daughter’s house again for six months. I learned English at the Maynard Adult Learning Center. My second teacher was Pat. Right now I am staying in America and studying English in Alison’s class. I thank all my teachers and I admire their artistic gifts, their patience, and their goodwill.

I certainly still have poor English and bad comprehension, but I was able to go to Washington D.C. by myself. I visited museums, read prospectuses and maps, and found my way on the subway. I am happy when people understand me. I really like listening to the English language!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Valentina Afinogenova is an advanced beginner ESOL student at the Maynard Adult Learning Center.