As a newly minted US citizen, Diep Huynh has a lot to be thankful for – and Quincy College is near the top of his list.

He successfully completed the college’s ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course which not only prepared him to pass his citizenship test but has laid the foundation for him to pursue his high school equivalency credential through the college’s HiSET program.

“Before, I really didn’t speak much English,” says Diep, who earned a college degree and owned a small business in his native Vietnam before emigrating in 2016. “Now I can’t believe it. I’m so much more confident.”

Quincy College ESOL students develop more than just language proficiency; students like Diep also learn American history and culture, about everything from civics to unique customs like Thanksgiving.

“I love it here,” he says. “Everybody at the college is so friendly and helpful. When I finish the HiSET, I want to stay here and get my degree and then maybe start a business. After learning English,” he says with a smile, “I’m living my best life.”