“English is not about studying; it’s about enduring.”

Hello, this is the story of a 60-year-old nurse in the US. Have you ever stayed awake at night, gripped by the fear of “Can I really do this?” because of a language barrier?

I want to share a moment from my days at Bergen Community College (BCC) when I almost gave up. BCC is widely recognized in New Jersey for its prestigious 2-year nursing program. It offers exceptional clinical rotations in partnership with various local hospitals, making its graduates highly sought after in the healthcare industry. After a year of English courses (ALP), I thought I was ready. But the first nursing major class was a total shock. The professor’s speed was incomparable to the ALP classes.

During that 4-hour lecture, I sat in the front row, eyes wide open, but I understood almost nothing. My brain felt completely drained, and I found myself in a total ‘mental breakdown.’

I thought about quitting. I thought, “Is this it for me?” But look where I am now. I am working proudly as a Registered Nurse in a US hospital.

If you are standing before a wall of fear because of language or age, remember this: If a 60-year-old with struggling English could do it, you can too. Just like watering bean sprouts—the water seems to drain away, but the sprouts still grow. Your English will grow as long as you don’t stop.

Keep going. I am rooting for you.