BUSCA

“We as immigrants are constantly struggling in a gap between our culture and U.S. culture. Sometimes we need some bridge that can serve as a connection to this new culture. BUSCA was my bridge to assimilate my new life. BUSCA offered me the tools that I need to survive in this society since English is a necessity to pursue my goals. Professors always challenged me to do my best while the academic and motivational advisors, even the director, listened to all my worries while I was having a hard time. They motivated me to continue my studies and to always dream big. I am very grateful for having this opportunity that opened up many doors that I thought were unreachable.”

“The BUSCA program gave me the opportunity to change my life. I was afraid to speak English at the beginning, but I got through it. I knew that my dreams were very big, and those dreams were stronger than my fears. That made me stronger. It showed me I can do it. Every semester, I was doing better and learning more. I developed confidence in myself, and everyone helped me. Professors would tell me, ‘Let me know what you need. I will help you.’” I almost don’t have words to describe how I feel. They gave a great opportunity not only to me and my family, but also the Latino community in Philadelphia.”

“I joined the BUSCA program because I was a little behind in learning the [English] language. I have only been living in the United States for six years. The BUSCA program is an excellent program if you are looking for a program to help improve your English skills and you can improve your public speaking skills, and writing skills with tons of practice. The professors are great at helping and they understand a lot and are very flexible with the students because they know that we have a language barrier.

In the BUSCA program I learned a lot of skills that are now serving me well, public speaking skills and writing skills. There are going to be opportunities to present in many classes and write a lot of papers, but that’s a great way to build your vocabulary and learn to put your ideas together and to be at the collegiate level.”