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Interview with Renad Aldossary, a social media content creator for the website: Saudi Women's Stories
Interview with Renad Aldossary, a social media content creator for the website: Saudi Women's Stories
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
My name is Renad, I'm from Saudi Arabia, and I came here to Portland OR to study English.
Why did you decide to study English at PCC?
I chose to study English at PCC because it's a fantastic college with a wide range of study options. I remember when I first reached out to the admissions team via email, and they responded so quickly, showing how helpful and caring they are. It made me feel like PCC was the perfect place to pursue my studies. Also, PCC is known for its affordability compared to other colleges and universities.
Can you tell us a little bit about your website? What is it about? Why do you think it's important?
Saudi Women’s Stories is a storytelling and educational platform for women in Saudi Arabia to tell their stories, show their diversity, present their interesting journeys to change and success. Established in 2019 to highlights new aspects of Saudi women’s lives that haven’t been shown in the past and to tell interesting women’s stories to the world while countering misconceptions and stereotypes about women in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it hopes to empower and inspire women by offering various programs, training classes, and workshops, and organizing events. Saudi Women’s Stories aims to empower women by telling their own stories, expressing their opinions and shine, while working together on finding solutions to better our communities.
You can look at the website here: https://saudiwomenstories.com/
What are your future plans?
My future plan is to make this platform for women worldwide and I'll keep working on my goal of empowering women.
Reflection by former ESOL Student, Vladislav Kirilov, who is now enrolled in PCC's Ophthalmic Medical Technology (OMT) Program
Reflection by former ESOL Student, Vladislav Kirilov, who is now enrolled in PCC's Ophthalmic Medical Technology (OMT) Program
In the summer of 2020, amidst the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, I embarked on my educational journey at Portland Community College (PCC). Choosing PCC during such unprecedented times was a decision fueled by the need to adapt and pursue growth despite the uncertainties surrounding in-person services and the predominantly online nature of education.
Beginning with English level 6, I navigated the virtual learning landscape, gradually honing my grammar and writing skills. Having previously lived in the U.S., I brought some English speaking and listening proficiency with me. My journey to PCC took a detour from upstate New York to Arizona before finding its way to Portland.
Reflecting on my early education in Kazakhstan, where English instruction was minimal, I realized the immersive experience of living in the U.S. provided the most effective and comprehensive language education. Completing the ESOL program at PCC marked a significant milestone in my linguistic journey.
While awaiting the start of the Micro Engineering program, I explored various subjects, including biology, Spanish, and art, even engaging in the Illumination Project, which delves into social justice and socioeconomic issues. However, the anticipated microelectro engineering program proved to be a mismatch for my interests, leading to a period of uncertainty and self-discovery.
After overcoming a period of confusion, I found my true passion in healthcare. Inspired by my childhood experiences in a kindergarten for children with vision disabilities, I embarked on the path to becoming an ophthalmic technician. My decision was fueled by the admiration I held for ophthalmologists who were heroes for both me and my family.
Currently in my second year of the program, I am immersed in a practicum rotation at Eyehealth Northwest in southeast Portland. The love for the program and the field of healthcare drives me, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunities it will bring in the future. Ultimately, my educational journey at PCC is a stepping stone towards the broader goal of becoming an optometrist.
To those navigating the intricacies of learning English, I offer this advice: stay active, ask questions, and maintain a genuine interest in the language. Embrace the opportunity to learn new words and phrases daily, manage your time wisely, and plan ahead. During moments of discouragement, remember that everyone's situation is unique, and perseverance is key. Be proud of your progress, and never hesitate to celebrate the small victories along the way.
Vlad was recently featured in a PCC Student News article. Read his interview here: Vlad's Interview
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