Damian

Growing up, Damian was the tenth out of twelve siblings living in the Dominican Republic. Being a part of such a big family, he was pushed to work hard and provide support by going to school all morning and working as a shoemaker at night. When he was older, he continued that work ethic attending medical school and becoming a urologist, working at the local hospital.

Leaving his career, his friends and family, and his four dogs was a hard decision for Damian to make, but he chose to come to America to give his kids an easier life than he had. He wanted them to have the most opportunities and best chance at success as possible. Damian misses his home in the Dominican Republic, especially his large garden of a variety of plants and the climate that allowed it, but doesn’t regret his decision.

Since moving to America, he got certified and became a forklift operator. At his new job, he and his wife met another couple who had previously studied English at LVGH. Knowing that Damian was also hoping to improve his English, they recommended it to him because “the classes are very personalized and good.” Now, Damian and his wife have been coming to LVGH a year and a half.

“I came for English class and got so much more than I expected.”

Damian is currently enrolled in almost all of the classes LVGH has to offer- ESOL, Citizenship, Computer Skills, and the Career Pathways program.

“Learning is hard to do alone. Here, the tutors care about your progress, the staff is nice, and you can make friends. I can express myself more and people understand me now!”