Dreams begin in Summer Session II

Zeynep Kolemen from Turkey

My name is Zeynep and I’m from Istanbul, Turkey. I have been in the U.S. for 8 months. I flew more than 6,000 miles to achieve my dreams. During my first 6 months in Santa Barbara, I was studying at ELC, a language school, because I didn’t feel comfortable about my English skills. After I completed my language course, I transferred to SBCC in June for Summer Session II.

The reason why I chose to study at SBCC is because it is the number one community college in the U.S. I think SBCC is the best place to improve yourself for your future goals because there are plenty of options, and you can take whichever class you want. My first day at SBCC was meaningful because it was the beginning of my dream. My dream is to create my own children’s clothing brand in the U.S. I already hold a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering from my country. I want my brand to be known worldwide, which is why I came the U.S. I chose Marketing as my major at SBCC to understand the American business culture and trading system well. After I finish my degree, I can do my OPT in a textile company to deeply understand the business life. During summer session, I had the chance to meet with Mayor of Santa Barbara, Cathy Murillo. I told her about my dreams and she recommended me to go to Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) in order to get support and start my business plan.

One of the greatest experiences I’ve had in the U.S. during these 8 months has been as a volunteer for an non-profit organization called, Worldhealer. We visited Boys & Girls Club several times and made presentations to children about cultural, social, environmental, and behavioral differences around the world. I am still trying to adjust to the culture, people, and especially the language, in the United States. It is hard, but not impossible! During our visits, I sometimes couldn’t understand what the children said while we were playing games. When I couldn’t understand, I would just smile at them and they smiled back. That is when I realized that all we need is a smile even if we are different and don’t understand each other!

In Summer Session II, I took English 98, Marketing 101 (an online class), and PD 101B (an orientation class for international students). English 98 was the hardest class that I took in summer session. I wrote 3-5 page essays every week, but I passed the class and I am really proud of myself. I feel that my English has been improving day by day. Marketing 101 was the first online class I ever took. I learned how to use Canvas, attend and do my modules, discussions, and quizzes. PD101B was one of my favorite classes because it gave me the opportunity to meet people from other nationalities, and we got to share our dreams with each other. Although I am an international student, in class, I have never felt that I am different from the other students. Our teachers are always helpful and equal to each of us. I feel lucky and happy to be here!