POC is honored to have clients from around the world attend its free classes and events.
From Iraq, Farah is a civil engineer currently working toward obtaining her Professional Engineer (PE) license and attends POC classes twice a week. She’s also a talented baker and shared a traditional cookie and cake with class.
Read about Farah’s experience in POC’s classes in her own words.
“My name, Farah, actually means joy, and I think it reflects my personality. I love life. I believe everyone deserves to live in peace and safety, and I believe hope is what keeps us moving forward, even during difficult times.
Thank you, POC, for all the opportunities you give us and for creating a place where everyone can feel welcomed, valued, and supported.
How have you felt supported, welcomed, or hopeful because of POC?
From my very first day at POC, I felt welcomed and supported. I remember thinking, ‘This is what I always imagined an American community should be like.’
Everyone is incredibly kind, patient, and supportive. We all know that we make mistakes while speaking English, but nobody makes us feel uncomfortable about them.
Even when someone corrects us, they do it in such a gentle and encouraging way. Sometimes they simply repeat our sentences using the correct grammar, which helps us learn naturally without feeling embarrassed.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about attending a POC class or supporting POC?
I would encourage everyone to visit POC, and I already try to tell people about it whenever I have the opportunity. I didn't even know this wonderful place existed until Harper College referred me here after I scored above the level offered in their free ELA program. I honestly wish more people knew about POC. This is exactly the kind of place our community needs.
For me, the experience has been even more valuable than traditional ESL classes because it offers something beyond language lessons: real conversations, human connections, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
How has your experience with POC changed you?
POC has given me more than an opportunity to practice English. It has allowed me to meet people with different backgrounds, experiences, and challenges. Some are still working through immigration paperwork, while others are trying to rebuild their lives and start from zero.
Listening to their stories has given me a different perspective on life. Their determination inspires me and reminds me how important it is to appreciate our opportunities and keep moving forward." — Farah
