When classes started at the University of Washington yesterday, Thadah Hser was among the approximately 1,500 transfer students who matriculated. Thadah and her family received services from the JFS Refugee & Immigrant Service Center (RISC), including support to gain citizenship. And now, Thadah works as a JFS translator, helping refugees from Burma as they acclimate to life in the Puget Sound region.
Thadah is also an exceptional student. Her accomplishments and drive were recognized last spring when she was awarded a scholarship from the College Success Foundation. Thadah’s scholarship is funded by JFS supporters Tana Senn & Kevin Flaherty. This merit award made her transfer from Highline Community College to the UW possible. Here is Thadah’s story in her own words.
Where are you originally from?
That’s a hard question. My parents are from Burma, but they had to flee to Thailand. And, I was born in a refugee camp in Thailand. My family and I came to Kent in 2007 when I was 13.
What do you recall about coming to the U.S.?
My friends were all excited for me, but the journey was hard. I had never ridden in a plane and was so dizzy. I remember arriving at the SeaTac baggage claim. And then, I just missed my home and my friends. I remember that I cried so hard I almost passed out. After a few months, I settled in and could attend school. It’s a good thing that there were already other Karen families here.
How did you become a translator?
I received an email geared to youth in the Karen community advertising a volunteer translator job. The first thing that came to my mind is, ‘This is a job that would boost my English skills.’ When I arrived as a middle school student, I took classes as an English as Second Language (ESL) student; but, by the middle of high school, I became proficient enough to take regular classes. When you’re a kid, you learn faster and often help by translating for older people. I like being a translator because I want to share what I know.
How did you become a scholarship recipient?
Margaret Hinson [Director of RISC] called and said she wanted to nominate me. I didn’t even want to apply, but I also didn’t want to let Margaret down. She motivated me. When I got it, I had to explain to my mom that it wasn’t financial aid – it was a scholarship. She said, “Wow! That’s a lot!”
Tell us about your future plans.
At Highline Community College, I earned an associate’s degree in Human Services, with honors. At the UW, I’m in the School of Social Work. This country gave me opportunity for education. After college, I want to go back to Thailand and Burma to help the Karen people with English and other skills. I want to help and make other people happy.
You’re very accomplished. What advice would you give a student starting high school?
I always wanted to challenge myself and what held me back was the language barrier. But I didn’t want to give up. I tried my best. Sometimes you will be left behind but don’t give up. Just keep going. Never say you can’t do it. Keep on trying, and challenge yourself. Try your best. One day your hard work will pay off.
You can read more about Tana Senn & Kevin Flaherty, Thadah’s scholarship funders, in Part 2 of this series.
By Deb Frockt
Deb Frockt is Director of Marketing & Communications. She enjoys baking, beaching and learning about golf, both kinds of football, fashion and pop music from her husband and sons.
