This is the first in a series of Sulam Student Stories that give you a window into life at Sulam and the impact of a Sulam education. Mike, a 12th grader at Sulam, reflects on his school experience. Mookie, a 12th grade Berman student, shares his insight into his friendship with Mike.
Mike’s reflections on Sulam:
When I was in 9th grade I came to Sulam. I didn’t know how to talk to people. I just didn’t know what to do. I was embarrassed. I was lonely. I was angry. I felt worried that I would never have friends and that I would always be lonely.
I entered a special program outside of Sulam to learn the social skills I needed, but it was the inclusion program at Sulam that allowed me to put what I learned into practice. I started choosing the right people to talk to, and understanding when to talk to them. I did this with the help of Sulam counselors who helped me with social skills to develop friendships. Sulam has the best methods to foster growth and to help students individually. The teachers and specialists customized a program for me.
I am excited to go to Israel and to meet new people and make new friends. I am excited about going to college. I learned at Sulam that to be successful, I have to see the perspective of others. I sometimes still struggle with that, but I’m working on it.
Thank you Sulam for changing my life. Today I have friends. I am not so worried about being lonely and I know I can be successful as a member of society, as a Jew, a son, and a friend.
Mookie’s reflections on his friendship with Mike:
When Mike first came to Berman, he was really shy and reserved. I know what it’s like to be the new kid, and I didn’t want Mike to be bullied, so I approached him and started talking to him. At first, Mike was really shy and quiet, but now we’re really good friends.
Mike is just a great guy. He truly cares about his friends. He is really good at reading facial expressions... Mike can see when I am upset, and he will listen and talk to me about it; we have really meaningful conversations. He will keep things confidential. And best of all, there is no judgment from him--that is super important in high school where you are constantly being judged. Mike is such a good friend to me because of that. He is passionate, but totally respects me and my thoughts.
Having Sulam at Berman has opened my mind, and I’ve seen how it impacts other students at Berman. We see kids who are different every day, and it gives us a more open view for when we get out into the world.
Generous donors have offered to EXTEND their $150,000 match grant through the end of the year. This means that every dollar you give now will have DOUBLE the impact on life-changing friendships like Mike and Mookie.