"Finding Project Learn was very important to me. From the moment I started the classes, everything began to change." Camila
When Camila enrolled in Project Learn's English classes, she already had some knowledge of English. What she lacked was the confidence to speak.
Like many adult English learners, she worried about speaking in front of others and making mistakes. She understood the language but using it in conversation felt intimidating.
Then she found a classroom where she felt safe enough to try.
"I found an amazing environment where I felt comfortable speaking without fear of being judged." Camila
That simple feeling changed everything.
Each class became more than an opportunity to practice English.
Conversations encouraged participation. Interesting discussion topics kept everyone engaged. Just as importantly, the classroom brought together learners from different countries, each with their own experiences and perspectives.
"Our teacher always brought interesting topics for discussion, which kept the group engaged and made everyone feel comfortable participating." Camila
As her confidence grew, so did her connections.
"I met amazing people from different countries, and I still keep in touch with some of them today. I also learned a lot about their cultures and backgrounds." Camila
What began as language learning gradually became something much larger—a community.
For Camila, greater confidence didn't stay inside the classroom.
It followed her into the next chapter of her life.
The confidence I gained through the classes encouraged me to make a major life change: I decided to change careers and return to school."Camila
Today, Camila is a sophomore studying Psychological Science at Miami University. This summer, she’s completing an internship at Community Support Services in Akron.
Looking back, she sees a direct connection between the confidence she developed in class and the opportunities she is pursuing today.
"Because of this experience, I can say that the classes were about much more than learning a language. They helped me become more confident, more connected to my community, and more willing to pursue my goals." Camila
Camila's journey is still unfolding.
Her goal is to continue her education and build a career where she can make a difference in the lives of others.
"I want to continue my education and pursue a career as a counselor, where I can support individuals facing mental health challenges and help them improve their well-being." Camila
Every learner's journey is different.
Some come to Project Learn to prepare for a GED®. Others want to improve their reading skills, advance at work, or strengthen their English.
For Camila, learning English became the beginning of something she never expected: greater confidence, meaningful friendships, a return to college, and a new direction for the future.
As Project Learn celebrates 45 years of serving Summit County, stories like Camila's remind us that education is about more than gaining knowledge.
Sometimes, it's about finding your voice.
