By Antonio Dabeet

I am Antonio Dabeet from Jerusalem, Palestine.

Palestine is a small country. Its capital is Jerusalem and to the south of Jerusalem is Bethlehem where Jesus was born.

When I came to the United States I had a hard time understanding people. I was saying yes or no about stuff I didn’t understand. I left my parents, my brother, my sister, my friends, and all the good things where I’d grown up.

I started over again, finding new friends and adapting to the new environment. It was boring for me the first couple months, but now I’ve found how to improve myself. I became a student at Muscatine Community College with a lot of activities to keep me busy. I’m a member of PTK, Young Democratic, and Volunteer at Central Middle School.

Also, I have two jobs. I’m a lifeguard at the YMCA and a cashier at Walmart. I’m excited to become an engineer tech for local, big companies.

I am a funny guy who loves to joke with my friends. I love listening to saxophone, and also listening to country and hip hop music. I care about the people I love. This is my third semester as a student at Muscatine Community College.

For this semester I have decided to be a part of Calumet because I love taking pictures.

I’ve been in the USA for almost two years. I can now write, speak, and understand English better. I’ve made a lot of friends since I first arrived. I’m glad to have had the opportunity to make new friends here. I’m thankful for how my uncles have stood beside me and helped me through my struggles.

I want to wish everyone the best of luck, enjoy the semester, and get good grades.

If anyone would like to share stories or anything else email me at antoniodabeet@gmail.com.