This article was written by Carolyn Widen, iACT for Refugees volunteer. She is currently in graduate school earning her master’s in social work. The name of the client has been changed to protect her privacy.

Often, it is through great struggle that we learn what we are truly capable of.  I witnessed this firsthand as an iACT Volunteer English Tutor when I worked one-on-one with a 16-year-old Burmese student, Sanda.

The beginning of this experience was challenging as Sanda spoke very little English and we both were uneasy about working with each other. I was gaining confidence as an educator. Sanda was acclimating to a completely new culture and style of learning.

Although learning English was an incredible obstacle for this young student, she never gave up. Her determination inspired me to keep coming back and giving her my all. The longer we worked together the more comfortable we began to feel. After a full school year of working together, we had built a strong relationship and Sanda’s English had improved tremendously. I was so glad to have overcome the perceived barriers between us and accomplish something truly incredible.

Sadly, Sanda and I slowly lost touch. However, two years later our paths crossed again while I was interning for an education-focused nonprofit. We had a full conversation in English, something that seemed impossible just two years previously! I learned she will graduate high school in May 2015.

I am honored I was able to be a part of Sanda’s success. I am also immensely proud of this student. She, like many refugees, faced tremendous hardship during her transition to life in the United States. Graduating from high school is a challenge even for many students who are American and speak English. What Sanda has achieved is truly admirable.

I will never forget my experience with Sanda. She showed me that with support, refugee students can realize incredible goals. I encourage all who are interested to take advantage of the opportunities iACT provides to support refugee families, be it serving lunch to the students at a Square one Lunch, volunteering at the iLearn Summer Program with refugee youth, or becoming an English tutor like I did.

I guarantee you it will change your life. I know I have been transformed.