Student of the Month
Katya Olsen is a woman of determination. When she first arrived in the United States with her husband eight years ago she did not speak a word of English. Katya enrolled in ESL classes at a local school and soon began making progress, but after several years she found that the ESL classes were no longer helping her. But when she started studying at Project Read three years ago, real progress again became evident. This progress is most seen in her recent career change. Katya works at a youth detention facility as a counselor for children, but before Project Read she was the facility’s cook. Because of her studies, she was able to pass a test and be promoted to counselor. Katya says, “I can do paperwork now. My grammar has improved so much that I write better than some of my colleagues. I can even help the kids with their homework.”
Katya is a mom to two children and a grandmother to two grandchildren. She enjoys talking to her family on Skype, cooking, and shopping. Her advice to those that are entering Project Read or struggling is to keep at it. She says, “Never give up. Project Read is here to help you. Never give up.”
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I know Katya well and she is an amazing person. She is very determined and probably the hardest worker I know. Congratulations Katya! You deserve the recognition.