Meet Nangzi. She has lived in Denver for four years with her two kids David and Rachel and her husband, Haung Lum. David is five, and going into Kindergarten and Rachel is three. Nangzi’s husband works at Hammond Candy Factories. Nangzi has been a student with the English program since it began a year ago. She is light hearted, courageous, and a committed student.

Interview with Nangzi (2 min read)

Carmen: When we met a year ago your English was pretty good. How do you think it is now?

Nangzi: Right now I am confident in myself. I feel very confident in my English. I get a lot of new words.

Carmen: Can you remember a time when you realized you were more confident?

Nangzi: Yes! When I first arrived I was scared to make appointments. Americans talk very fast and I didn’t understand. Right now I make my own appointments. I try to listen with more intention and I ask… “Excuse me, please slow down”…

Carmen: Do you have goals now that you are more confident with speaking English?

Nangzi: Yes! When I left my country I wanted to be a translator. I first saw an interpreter at a church in Malaysia and now I want to be an interpreter for a church.

Carmen: Are you able to help out others with English?

Nangzi: Yes, sometimes my friends call me to help with the hospital and I will be translating.

Carmen: That must feel good?

Nangzi: Yes! When I’m able to help my friends I am very happy.

Carmen: Do your friends go to English class?

Nangzi: Yes, I invite my friends. I have three friends in English class.

Carmen: Has English helped your friends?

Nangzi: I have a friend who was scared to make appointments and now that she goes to class she makes appointments for herself.

Carmen: How many years have you been studying English?

Nangzi: Since the program started for one year.

Carmen: Nangzi thank you for sharing with me. You seem to be learning a lot more everyday. How does that feel?

Nangzi: Yes, I feel confident and happy!

by Carmen Melton, Board Member & Artist