In the spring of 2014, I went to an American school for the first time. I felt like such an outsider because everything was different. All the students spoke in English. They asked me questions but I didn't know how to answer. However, the idea of receiving a diploma from an American school kept me motivated. This image of a diploma helped me to get rid of my fears and bad thoughts. U tried my best. My goal was to learn English and get into best college possible. I knew it would be hard and there would be many obstacles. The first one was the ELA Regents Exam. I read books and practiced every day because I had promised myself that I would pass the exam and graduate from high school. W#hen I received the phone call telling me that I had passed the ELA Regents and all my classes, I felt an enormous sense pride. It was June 28, 2016. Everyone was sitting side by side. Our principle begin to call the students name to give them their diploma. I felt like I was in a dream. I couldn't believe that I was finally here graduating. The moment the principle called my name, I felt tears in my eyes and then they dropped like rain. This was my first big step in forming my new life in America. I realized that along the road, there would always be people who tell you what you cannot achieve, but only you know what you can accomplish.

– Sanobar

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