Ericka and Carmelo

Carmelo always wanted to be a surgeon. Even when he lived in a refugee camp, he still attended school every day and pursued his dream. Finally, he made it to Costa Rica where he attended med school. He returned to Nicaragua, where he met and married fellow doctor Ericka.

They made the difficult decision to leave their home amidst the human rights crisis taking place in their country. Their journey led them to the United States, where they started thinking about their future. Seeking opportunities to learn, they applied to Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford for English language classes and career support. Despite missing their family and friends, they are determined to start a new life here. In the face of such a huge change, the couple always comes to class smiling and ready to learn.

“It’s different here. The teachers, the students. We’ve met so many people from different countries.”

They have always had a love for school and, in just a few months, they have made strides in their English proficiency. Ultimately, their goal is to enroll in a higher education medical progra and continue their careers as doctors in the U.S.. We are so grateful to have Carmelo and Ericka as students at LVGH. Recently, Ericka joined our LVGH staff as an ESOL Program Assistant. We are so proud of her!

Carmelo and Ericka want to tell anyone thinking about enrolling to LVGH: “Don’t hesitate to sign up, just go!”