Graduation 1999

Graduation. The word punctuates students' ELI experience, bringing closure before they tab down to the next paragraph in their lives. More like a comma or a dash than a period, the occasion nevertheless provides time to stop and reflect. At each of the six graduation ceremonies throughout the year, one student -- the valedictorian -- chosen for his or her exceptional achievements in the classroom, speaks for all.

In June, Juan Pablo Salazar told of how, ten months earlier in Colombia, he had not imagined he would meet people from all over the world and learn about so many cultures at ELI.

"Learning English takes time," he said, thanking the Institute for the scholarship he had received which allowed him to finish his studies.

"Work hard. Do your assignments," he admonished. "You will see results."

Venezuelan Luis Felipe Ayala, the August valedictorian, expressed his gratitude for what he had gained in six months at ELI. "[We now] share a common link," he said, "a new way to reach the world."

"We don't need to say good-bye," he added. "I prefer to say welcome; welcome to a new life."

Valedictorian Luis Felipe Ayala (Venezuela) spoke at the August graduation.	Fadel Al-Shamisi (UAE) received the Writing Achievement award at the April graduation.
Tatsuhito Kikuchi (Japan) performed a trumpet solo at graduation in August.	Several Colfuturo students from Colombia danced at the August graduation.

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