Learning English and Finding Community at the CLC

On June 17, more than 100 adults graduated from the Cambridge Community Learning Center (CLC). Adriana Posada Hernandez and 29 other people completed the highest level of the ESOL/English Program.

“I love Rock and Roll music in English! When I was a teenager in Colombia, I wanted to understand music lyrics. I started learning English, but I did not become fluent,” says Adriana. Many years later, she came to the United States because of political issues in her country. She needed to learn English and signed up for English classes at the CLC.

“When I started classes at CLC in 2024, I felt very welcomed here," she says. "The teachers make you feel confident and important. I found other people aside from my husband who believed in me. I found new friends. The CLC is the kind of place you don’t want to leave!”

After 6 months in classes, Adriana joined the Student Leadership Team. “I was a community leader in my country,” she explains. “I know it is important for people to have voice.” As a Student Leader at the CLC, Adriana planned cultural events, helped hire new staff, and represented her classmates at meetings. “It was an honor to listen to my classmates and a great way to connect with my community.”

She has given a lot to the CLC community, and she has grown too. “The best way to learn about a culture is to learn the language,” she says. “Language is the window to the culture. It lets you make connections to people.”

In September, Adriana will continue studying at the CLC as a Bridge to College student. She wants to continue improving her English and prepare to go to college. “I want to become a teacher in the U.S. like I was in Colombia!” she says. “I am very happy and grateful to have found a purpose in my life, and thankful to God for finding a community at the CLC.”

Do you want to study English and connect with other people in your community? We have six levels of English classes, morning and night, available in Central Square or North Cambridge. We also have volunteer opportunities for people who want to connect with their community.

Learn about all of our programs at www.cambridgema.gov/CLC