After a long journey from Colombia, senior Karen Restrepo Capera has been able to fit in well with the South High community.
Restrepo Capera had moved to St. Louis from Bogotá, Colombia after her dad was hired for a new job.
“My dad got a job opportunity here (in St.Louis) for house remodeling. I like the school so far,” Restrepo Capera said.
In comparison to the St. Louis, Bogotá is a higher-populated city. Bogotá is the capital of Colombia, and is one of the largest cities in the world with over 7 million people.
“Here (The United States) is a safe place to live while Columbia is very dangerous. People in America tend to be friendlier, and there is not as much traffic,” she said.
Considering that Bogotá is a packed city, they are known for their celebrations during major holidays. Restrepo Caprera said Halloween is much more celebrated in her home country, and dances in Colombia are more fun and exciting.
While in Colombia, Restrepo Capera said has made fun memories by the water with her family.
“When I first went to the sea, I spent time with my mom and my sister. I saw the sunset and it felt very good because it was the first time I had seen the sunset,” she said.
In different countries, the learning standards may vary, and so may the student’s attitudes towards the standards.
“I think the students here are more intelligent. People in class tend to participate more here and are focused on their learning. Everyone is really good at what they do,” Restrepo Capera said.
Moving to a new country isn’t easy, especially for those who aren’t native to the language.
“The hardest part is getting used to the culture and the language barrier,” Counselor Robert Lappin said.
In addition to learning a new language, adjusting to different learning levels in school can be a challenge.
“I think she was a very good student in Colombia, and sometimes she gets frustrated here (in the United States) because she’s not at the same level that she used to be at. She’s getting there though,” English Language Teacher Jillian Baldwin-Kim said.
Moving to a new country brings the opportunity to make new friends. Restrepo Capera’s personality has helped her talk and make friends with her peers.
“She has made a lot of friends and excels in all of her classes. She’s a social butterfly and she’s not shy at all,” senior Tara Wilson said.
Due to her bubbly personality, Restrepo Capera has made an effort to integrate herself into South.
“The best part is how much she wants to integrate herself into the school and community, and how much effort she puts into learning English,” Lappin said.
Restrepo Capera is a great addition to South, and overall has an interesting backstory to tell.
“Karen is very friendly so if anyone wanted to ask her about her life in Colombia, she would be happy to talk to them about it,” Baldwin-Kim said.
