Student Writing: “On the Job”

When I came to the United States of America, in fifteen days I got a job. I worked at Aluminum Cashing Company in Waukesha. It was very hard to go to work there because I lived in Milwaukee, and I didn’t have either a car or driver’s license. I went to work with my friend. I worked third shift. After working I was so tired that I couldn’t go to school during the day. I never worked at night in Laos before. I worked at Aluminum Cashing Company for a year and a half, then I got laid off.

After three months I got a job at Ministry Health Care. I have been working there since 1982. After work I go to Milwaukee Achiever to learn more English. In Laos I took French at school for my second language instead of English. Milwaukee Achiever helps me a lot because before that, I only knew a little bit of English.

On my job I do many things on the computer. Right now, everything is high technology. I don’t have any difficulty because my English is improving and I have experience. I know how to use my time to accomplish the work I have to do. I like my job because the people where I work are very nice and helpful when I have a problem. I am very lucky to be in the USA because I can provide economic benefits and good education for my family and myself.

-- Phatsanouk Soukhaphon
Milwaukee Achiever Literacy Services

Student Success Story

Two years ago, Jenny Negron was the recipient of one of the GMLC’s scholarship award. With that award, Jenny enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at MATC. Since then, she has been going to school every day and is now in her fourth semester.

She has taken many different classes, including baking, menu planning, fine dining, institutional foods and sanitation, to name a few. She has succeeded in earning a B average.

Jenny likes school. She feels successful and confident about herself. Not only is she going to school earning her degree, but she also is a mother of two children, and works part-time as a receptionist for Journey House.

Yes, Jenny Negron is a success story. It’s amazing what a scholarship can do for a person – it can change a life!! Thanks, GMLC, for your support!

-- Eileen Marotte