Alex Abrego has been in the United States for just 8 months. He’s a motivated professional in mining operations and came to the United States with his wife. Long-term, he hopes to get a master’s degree to further his career and improve the mining industry world-wide. English is the primary language in all of the largest mining companies world-wide, and to get promotions and share his vision, he needs to learn English. Alex says that if you don't speak English, you can't share your vision. He's been envisioning ways to optimize resources and improve safety and resources for other people in the industry, as well. He says that if or when he gets enough money, he will open a foundation in his hometown in La Mesa de Veraguas, Panama to support young people learning English and crucial digital skills. He feels that these two skills are essential gateways for better opportunities.
Alex has studied with the English Language Learning classes at Asian Association of Utah since April, and shared with us that at the start of the course, he felt he couldn't speak English at all. His wife would go with him everywhere to make sure he could understand. In the past few months, he has progressed exceptionally quickly through two whole levels. He hopes to move up yet one more level before December! Now, he can go to the grocery store and the bank and confidently communicate. A few months ago, he shared his experience navigating the DMV without any assistance. He shared with us that through engaging classes, where teachers lean into students' curiosity, his English class has bettered every aspect of his life.
In class, Alex is a leader, motivating his peers, encouraging practice and helping students of all levels through the ups and downs of learning a new language in an immersion setting. He is eager to participate and get to know every member of the classroom. He shared with us that the class has changed the rest of his life; not only did he learn a new language, but he got to know so many new cultures and wonderful people. He says he always comes with a good attitude, because he's come to learn that the class is just as much about safety and community as it is about learning English, and he knows that coming in good spirits helps his classmates.
Although he came for a free English class, he says he's come away carrying the vision and values of Asian Association. "What other association helps people like this?" he said. "I will help people all my life."
The energy he brings to the classroom shows that he has determination that will change the mining industry for the better, and we are all cheering him on towards his goal to achieve his desired level before the end of this year!
Like Alex, we believe that English and digital skills are essential building blocks for opportunity and success in the today’s world. That’s why our English language classes offer integrated digital skills practice, as well as a supportive environment to learn English, where learners pursue their personal goals and support one another to grow. Our classes are always enrolling, and referrals are welcome. Learn more about our English Language Learning program.
Join us in congratulating Alex on his rapid progress!
