PLI has helped me with a lot of things. Before I didn’t speak English. Now I can read and write. I used to go to the store with my husband, but now I can go alone. It's good. It has helped me become more independent. I can also help my daughter with her homework. My mom is sick and I can send her money to buy medicine and anything she needs. Now I can help my family. I am very happy and proud that I can help them.

It was sad for us to have a new baby here in the US, without our family. One of the happiest moments that my wife had was when PLI had a baby shower for her. It was an experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. In Afghanistan, when a baby is born, friends and family celebrate together. We had been thinking about this and how we don’t have many relatives. But, PLI provided this to cover those things that we expected. It was more than we expected. It was a very good experience for me.

I am very shy, when I come to PLI, I feel more confident. Ms. Angela has me discuss topics. I am not shy anymore. I can speak more relaxed now, thanks to my teacher.

We had a PLI Essay contest. My main goal was to participate, not to win a prize. I studied budgeting, a topic I had never read before. It was the first time I had typed an essay on a computer. We spent 3 days to do that and my teacher was very helpful. Mrs. Danielle called and said I got 1st position. I can’t explain how I felt. I had water in my eyes. My whole family couldn't believe it.

I want to continue in my field, but language is my problem. I haven’t felt comfortable until now. PLI staff is very friendly and are close to their students. They are good teachers. They don’t teach everything too fast. Another issue I have is that I have a little one, and PLI has a nursery. I was comfortable to be in class.