In our issue #519 of February 1st of this year, an article authored by Lane Glenn, president of Northern Essex Community College, recounts the historic visit to Dominican Republic, where he went to finalize arrangements started last August, 2015 between NECC and Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo (UASD).
The agreement would allow local residents to transfer their credits to NECC and vice versa. We agree with President Glenn, that this agreement has the potential to improve many lives. We know many Hispanic immigrants, mostly Dominicans, graduated teachers, doctors, dentists and engineers in their home countries, working in jobs in the service industry with much lower wages.
Despite all these agreements, the biggest challenge these people and immigrants alike all face is the English language. President Glenn understands that this is still the biggest obstacle for many, even those Latinos born in the United States but raised in households where Spanish is the primary language.
This reminds us of an English teacher we had in our country, Cuba, where students of higher education that did not pass the final exam in English could not be promoted. Period! as it was considered a core subject.
“If you want to learn a language, in this case English, he recommended moving to the country where only that language is spoken. Socialize with people who only speak that language. Eat in restaurants where only that language is spoken, but look not for anyone’s help to order dinner. Starve if necessary,” said the professor.
A few years have passed and every day we appreciate more the teacher’s words, although we never put them into practice entirely.
If you are one of those professionals who cannot work in your profession in this country, do not hesitate and contact Northern Essex Community College officials, they will help you, even with the English language. Of course, you have to do your part.
This is a great opportunity that presents itself, take advantage of it!
