50 for 50: Farrukh Khonkhodzhaev

In the 1990s, Queens became the most ethnically diverse county in the U.S., as major waves of immigrants from Latin America, Asia, and the former Soviet Union transformed neighborhoods like Jackson Heights, Corona, and Forest Hills into thriving multicultural hubs. By decade’s end, 46% of Queens residents were foreign-born. QCH responded in 2000 by launching its first ESOL classes in Jackson Heights, soon expanding to immigration legal services, and in 2022 adding WIOA-funded English for the Workplace classes. Farrukh was a student in both our beginner ESOL classes and the more advanced workplace English program.

“I am originally from Tajikistan. When I arrived in the United States, I quickly realized how difficult life can be without strong English skills. Even though I had a solid academic background and experience working at a university, spoken English was almost impossible for me to understand. In everyday situations — at the store, on the bus, in simple daily interactions — I felt lost and unsure how to respond. One day, almost by chance, I discovered Queens Community House, and I never imagined this place would become so important in my life.
From the very beginning, QCH became more than just a school. It was a second home where I could study English, meet people, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging. The classes were practical and motivating, and step by step I started to feel more confident speaking and listening.

The teachers were incredibly supportive, patient, and kind. They treated me not only as a student, but as a person starting a new chapter of life. Their encouragement helped me overcome my fear of making mistakes and gave me the courage to use English outside the classroom. The administrators were also welcoming, and their warmth made me feel less isolated in a foreign country.

Through my experience at QCH, I gained more than language skills. I gained confidence, resilience, and the ability to adapt to life in the United States. The program helped me recover from the stress of migration and start seeing new opportunities ahead. Today, I feel proud of my progress and deeply grateful to Queens Community House for guiding me on this journey — and I look forward to the future with hope."

—Farrukh Khonkhodzhaev