Majdi M. and his family left war torn Syria and traveled to Jordan where he became an advocate for the refugees there. After receiving some media training, he wrote news articles, becoming a spokesperson for refugees, especially for those children affected by the conflict.

After some time, Majdi decided to come to the United States to continue his education and pursue a degree in engineering. He is currently attending ESL classes at EOC and has been accepted to ECC. He may also enroll in the IT classes at the EOC ATTAIN lab.

Despite life’s challenges, Majdi's adventurous spirit, love of the outdoors and nature took him to the mountains of New York and Pennsylvania where he encountered the Amish culture. He was able to form friendships with members of the Amish community, admire the craftsmanship and workmanship of their furniture building, their traditional horse and buggy travel, and the traditional foods they make. His newfound friendship with the Amish is growing. Their connection and mutual support of each other continues and they are always ready to help each other when the need arises. Although Majdi and the Amish are from different worlds, Majdi has demonstrated how people from different cultures can come together.

What is his advice to new students? "If you work hard here in the US, you will get rewarded. There is not as much freedom in Syria. Focus on developing yourself, knowledge, skills, and computer skills here in the US, you can learn so much! Gaining knowledge will make your life easier and you can change anything with education. There are so many doors open in the US. Do not waste time because time is like gold!" Majdi also says "Don't forget to have a balance between family and work."

Majdi is an inspiration that reminds us all of the profound impact one person can have with his commitment to learning, exploring, advocacy and fostering unity.

Taslima A. and her family moved to the US from Bangladesh as immigrants and lived in New York City (NYC) for a period of time. She attended some high school in NYC but was not able to finish and earn her diploma. The family later moved to Buffalo, where Taslima attended an educational program and earned her high school equivalency, but always has dreams about attending college.

In 2022, Taslima learned about EOC’s vocational programs and enrolled for a brief time in the Google IT program. In January of 2023, after deciding that she wanted to earn a college degree, she contacted EOC’s College Connections office and sought assistance to enroll in SUNY Erie’s Human Services Program because she liked the idea of helping people. When asked how she’s able to manage having a family and taking 100% online courses, Taslima said “It’s really hard but I want to achieve my goal. I like taking these online classes, you must be your own teacher and student at the same time.”

Taslima’s advice to other immigrants, like herself, is “This country offers great opportunities to make something of yourself, don’t waste your time, focus on your studies to become something.” She adds “You can begin your career at EOC. They offer a great opportunity to do something in a short amount of time.”

If you'd like more information about EOC's College Connections Office, contact Mr. Oliver Glover at 716.645.1910 or olivergl@buffalo.edu.

ESL and Academic Completers:

Ahmad A

Ikram A.

Francine B.

Nahaida D.

Patti F.

Raphael J.

Kando K.

Paula M.

Idaliz M.

Ariel P.

Carlos P.

Martina P.

Mostafa T.

Tetiana V.

Google IT completers:

Aarav D. & Shah K.

Registered Medical Assistant completers:

Juan D.

Barbra D.

Kewpy M.