From: Nafasit, Eritrea

Occupation: Stocks and ships books at Missouri Book Services.

Why he came to the U.S.: His country was engaged in a civil war.

Why he is taking ESL classes: He has an agreement with Refugee and Immigration Services to take classes in exchange for housing and job assistance, and he wants to improve his English speaking and listening skills.

What he has learned from ESL: He has learned about communicating with people in everyday situations, including in discussion groups during class. Also, he has learned about using practical information he has needed to navigate life in the U.S., such as filling out documents like his green card application.

How he practices outside of class: He speaks in English with his co-workers at Missouri Book Services and watches American television shows.

Family: His wife is in a refugee center in Sudan, and his son lives in Eritrea with Temesgen’s parents.