DEAR ABBY: I am a 15-year-old high school freshman. English is my second language. I was in ESL during junior high school. I not only learned enough English to go into mainstream, but I also have college-prep classes in which I am quite good.
My history teacher told me about a program called "Upward Bound" that holds classes on Saturdays and is very promising. I didn't think my English was good enough, but I applied and was accepted. Now I am afraid to go. I'm worried that people will judge me because of my Colombian accent.
I have received much advice about this issue, but I still need more. Perhaps you will help me. -- WORRIED ABOUT COLOMBIAN ACCENT
DEAR WORRIED: Go to the class! You were accepted, so for heaven's sake, take advantage of the opportunity. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Should anyone be rude enough to comment on your accent, sweetly ask him or her how he or she would do taking classes in YOUR native language.