Sex Education
By Arian Selmani
Mr. Ereblir Kadriu talking about the importance of Sex education in schools.
Young people become victims of sexually transmitted diseases because they do not receive enough formal education about sex, educators say.
Studies show that the most common sexually transmitted diseases are chlamydia, HIV and herpes. People who get these diseases the most are from age 15 to 24.
Ereblir Kadriu, advisor at the American School of Kosova, says that sex education is extremely important because it gives students correct information about a healthy life.
“Sex education in a society is the main key for preventing sexually transmitted diseases,” Mr. Kadriu said.
Mr. Kadriu and ASK have included sex education through a class called healthy living, where students don’t learn exclusively about sex education but in general about a healthy lifestyle.
In some countries, it is an issue whether or not sex education should be taught at school. In the cultures of some countries, society decides that kids should learn sex education from their parents, not at school, said Dr. Charlie Launder, principal at ASK.
“In Canada, students learn about sex education starting from the first grade,” Mr. Charlie said.
Parents have to sign a letter that allows the teacher to teach students about sex education, he said. But mostly, they teach students about rape and inappropriate touching, he said.
Sex education is not only a necessary part of a student’s education, but it also gives students more information for a healthy life, said Mr. Kadriu. Therefore, he said, it’s important to provide students with information, whether they are sexually active or not.
“One out of four females and one out of five males in Canada is sexually abused by the age of 21,” said Mr. Charlie.
Sex education could help these youths, educators say.
“The best way to prevent big rates of sexual abuse is by having sex education in school,” said Mr. Kadriu.
Studies show that the most common sexually transmitted diseases are chlamydia, HIV and herpes. People who get these diseases the most are from age 15 to 24.
Ereblir Kadriu, advisor at the American School of Kosova, says that sex education is extremely important because it gives students correct information about a healthy life.
“Sex education in a society is the main key for preventing sexually transmitted diseases,” Mr. Kadriu said.
Mr. Kadriu and ASK have included sex education through a class called healthy living, where students don’t learn exclusively about sex education but in general about a healthy lifestyle.
In some countries, it is an issue whether or not sex education should be taught at school. In the cultures of some countries, society decides that kids should learn sex education from their parents, not at school, said Dr. Charlie Launder, principal at ASK.
“In Canada, students learn about sex education starting from the first grade,” Mr. Charlie said.
Parents have to sign a letter that allows the teacher to teach students about sex education, he said. But mostly, they teach students about rape and inappropriate touching, he said.
Sex education is not only a necessary part of a student’s education, but it also gives students more information for a healthy life, said Mr. Kadriu. Therefore, he said, it’s important to provide students with information, whether they are sexually active or not.
“One out of four females and one out of five males in Canada is sexually abused by the age of 21,” said Mr. Charlie.
Sex education could help these youths, educators say.
“The best way to prevent big rates of sexual abuse is by having sex education in school,” said Mr. Kadriu.
What girls look for in a date?
By Ema Smajli
Ema Smajli
Girls always complain on the way their first date goes, but what do they really want in their first date from their escorts? Well every single girl has a different idea about it.
Dating these days has become a really intense topic to teenagers.
Rina Krasniqi said that what all girls want in a date, is the guy to be romantic and to make them smile, but Mineta Kapetanovic didn’t think so.
Mineta’s thought on her perfect first date is that the guy should be cute and funny. The guy should take the girl to a cinema and have her watch a romantic movie.
Watching a romantic movie helps you get to your point faster, and it also keeps you motivated to keep on “fighting” for the one you like. Since girls put in a lot of effort, girls should start a date by receiving a compliment, which would make her feel comfortable around her date.
Of course, the guy should be cute.
“Guys should be ‘clean’ and also know where the limits are,” Rina said.
MIneta added: “My date should really be cute, otherwise, I wouldn’t even be on that date.”
Every single girl in Kosova probably has a different point of view on how they want their first date. It also depends on the person’s personality, because when you feel more comfortable, it’s easier on the boy. And all boys look for these days are open-minded girls who really know what they want out of everything.
Since Rina thinks that a guy should really know how to treat a girl on a date, she always wants everything that is being said on the date to be thoughtful and sincere but also something you won’t regret saying, which I totally agree with.
It only matters who you’re with!
Dating these days has become a really intense topic to teenagers.
Rina Krasniqi said that what all girls want in a date, is the guy to be romantic and to make them smile, but Mineta Kapetanovic didn’t think so.
Mineta’s thought on her perfect first date is that the guy should be cute and funny. The guy should take the girl to a cinema and have her watch a romantic movie.
Watching a romantic movie helps you get to your point faster, and it also keeps you motivated to keep on “fighting” for the one you like. Since girls put in a lot of effort, girls should start a date by receiving a compliment, which would make her feel comfortable around her date.
Of course, the guy should be cute.
“Guys should be ‘clean’ and also know where the limits are,” Rina said.
MIneta added: “My date should really be cute, otherwise, I wouldn’t even be on that date.”
Every single girl in Kosova probably has a different point of view on how they want their first date. It also depends on the person’s personality, because when you feel more comfortable, it’s easier on the boy. And all boys look for these days are open-minded girls who really know what they want out of everything.
Since Rina thinks that a guy should really know how to treat a girl on a date, she always wants everything that is being said on the date to be thoughtful and sincere but also something you won’t regret saying, which I totally agree with.
It only matters who you’re with!
High School Sweethearts Married
By Monika Rodiqi
Out of few couples who are still together past high school, Neca Ternava and Leart Jakupi are one of them.
Qendresa and Leart decided to get married in May of 2010. They were ASK seniors, having dated for four months.
“We were having lunch in a restaurant in Prishtina. Humorously, we sent text messages to our parents, telling them that we want to get engaged.”
Their parents wanted to discuss Qendresa’s and Leart’s determination to get married, but the young couple had already decided. The joke had become reality.
After graduation they got officially engaged on June 25, 2010. Qendresa was 17, and Leart 18. Their marriage followed a year later.
They admit knowing it was not a common age to get married, however, “love knows no age,” said Qendresa.
The reaction of their parents was not unanimous. While Leart’s parents were very enthusiastic about the news, Qendresa’s parents insisted that they were too young to get married. Her parents were not against their relationship, though, and after some time they accepted that their daughter was getting married.
Qendresa’s parents were not the only ones who hesitated when they got the big news. The couple recalls some of their friends not taking their engagement so well, either.
Qendresa and Leart have supported each other during these two years they have been married. Both families have been supportive, too.
Marriage has changed their lives deeply. However, most of the changes came after giving birth to their 3-month-old baby girl, Adora.
“Adora has completely changed our lives, she has made them way more beautiful,” said Qendresa.
“We are more responsible now, Adora always being our priority,” added Leart.
Despite their family life, both Qendresa and Leart admitted having an active night life.
“Leart goes clubbing every week, and I don’t miss out on night life either,” said Qendresa laughing.
Qendresa and Leart also manage to study at the University of Prishtina.
“Some of my plans changed so that I could study with Leart,” said Qendresa.
Leart goes to work, while Qendresa takes the most care of Adora. They also have a nanny.
Things haven’t been easy for the young couple all the time. Qendresa admits having had little fights with Leart before Adora was born, when she questioned getting married so young.
“Those were impulsive words, which I didn’t really mean,” she said.
After two years, Qendresa and Leart value comprehension and tolerance as keys to a functioning marriage.
“Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s experience,” they concluded.
Qendresa and Leart decided to get married in May of 2010. They were ASK seniors, having dated for four months.
“We were having lunch in a restaurant in Prishtina. Humorously, we sent text messages to our parents, telling them that we want to get engaged.”
Their parents wanted to discuss Qendresa’s and Leart’s determination to get married, but the young couple had already decided. The joke had become reality.
After graduation they got officially engaged on June 25, 2010. Qendresa was 17, and Leart 18. Their marriage followed a year later.
They admit knowing it was not a common age to get married, however, “love knows no age,” said Qendresa.
The reaction of their parents was not unanimous. While Leart’s parents were very enthusiastic about the news, Qendresa’s parents insisted that they were too young to get married. Her parents were not against their relationship, though, and after some time they accepted that their daughter was getting married.
Qendresa’s parents were not the only ones who hesitated when they got the big news. The couple recalls some of their friends not taking their engagement so well, either.
Qendresa and Leart have supported each other during these two years they have been married. Both families have been supportive, too.
Marriage has changed their lives deeply. However, most of the changes came after giving birth to their 3-month-old baby girl, Adora.
“Adora has completely changed our lives, she has made them way more beautiful,” said Qendresa.
“We are more responsible now, Adora always being our priority,” added Leart.
Despite their family life, both Qendresa and Leart admitted having an active night life.
“Leart goes clubbing every week, and I don’t miss out on night life either,” said Qendresa laughing.
Qendresa and Leart also manage to study at the University of Prishtina.
“Some of my plans changed so that I could study with Leart,” said Qendresa.
Leart goes to work, while Qendresa takes the most care of Adora. They also have a nanny.
Things haven’t been easy for the young couple all the time. Qendresa admits having had little fights with Leart before Adora was born, when she questioned getting married so young.
“Those were impulsive words, which I didn’t really mean,” she said.
After two years, Qendresa and Leart value comprehension and tolerance as keys to a functioning marriage.
“Never regret. If it’s good, it’s wonderful. If it’s bad, it’s experience,” they concluded.
Can love from movies misguide you in real life?
By Saranda Sejdija
Sophomore Alisa Jashari talking about the influence of love from movies.
Movies show a perfect form of love, but that is not something people find in real life, says Ms. Alexa Hines.
Students and teachers say that movies about love can misguide our understanding of the emotion.
A sophomore student, Alisa Jashari, said that even though love stories are not her favorites, some romantic movies are memorable.
“I don’t really like love movies because they’re cliché, but some of my favorite love movies of all time are ‘Gone with the Wind’, ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ and ‘Wanderlust’.”
English teacher Ms. Alexa says that movies can misguide people about love.
“Like most girls in America, we grew up with Disney movies that gave us hope that we’ll find a Prince Charming who is perfect, but no one is really perfect.”
Junior Diellona Hasani says people are not influenced by movies.
“No, never, because I don’t think that life is a movie,” she said.
Most movies today are to do with some kind of romance, no matter what type of genre the film is.
Senior Mirela Uka says people go to movies to escape real life.
“Most movies are to do with love because people can relate to this topic. People get tired with reality, and when they see a love film, they can relax,” she said.
So people can get misguided by movies that are to do with love because it gives them a chance to escape from reality, she said.
But people should keep a bright outlook on romance, Ms. Alexa said.
“Just because love in movies is shown to be perfect, most perfection is unattainable. But that does not mean you should give up. I am still a believer in true love whether it ends up being like the movies or not,” she said.
Students and teachers say that movies about love can misguide our understanding of the emotion.
A sophomore student, Alisa Jashari, said that even though love stories are not her favorites, some romantic movies are memorable.
“I don’t really like love movies because they’re cliché, but some of my favorite love movies of all time are ‘Gone with the Wind’, ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ and ‘Wanderlust’.”
English teacher Ms. Alexa says that movies can misguide people about love.
“Like most girls in America, we grew up with Disney movies that gave us hope that we’ll find a Prince Charming who is perfect, but no one is really perfect.”
Junior Diellona Hasani says people are not influenced by movies.
“No, never, because I don’t think that life is a movie,” she said.
Most movies today are to do with some kind of romance, no matter what type of genre the film is.
Senior Mirela Uka says people go to movies to escape real life.
“Most movies are to do with love because people can relate to this topic. People get tired with reality, and when they see a love film, they can relax,” she said.
So people can get misguided by movies that are to do with love because it gives them a chance to escape from reality, she said.
But people should keep a bright outlook on romance, Ms. Alexa said.
“Just because love in movies is shown to be perfect, most perfection is unattainable. But that does not mean you should give up. I am still a believer in true love whether it ends up being like the movies or not,” she said.
How to Write a Résumé
by Katja Basinkevich
Writing a résumé is a time-consuming process that involves many different pieces of information. Job advisors say that the most important thing to start with is the layout and appearance.
It should be a straightforward script and typed in 12-point letters in a serious font, said Mr. Christopher Hammond, an English teacher at the American School of Kosova.
Ms. Connie Oestreich, a human resources officer at the Embassy of the United States of America in Prishtina, pointed out that the paper used for the résumé and the cover letter should be of high quality. She suggests beige or grey and a thick, linen material.
There are several ways to draft a résumé. Job advisors say that job candidates should include education, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, indications of any published content, research experience, as well as knowledge in the use of software and foreign languages.
Candidates should highlight their accomplishments, Mr. Hammond said.
Job advisors encourage university graduates to talk about the focus of their studies.
Work experience is very important, said Mr. Terry Alston, the human resources manager at the Embassy of the United States of America.
When facing a competition of 500 résumés a week and 700 to 1,000 résumés per job position, job applicants should be aware of brevity, he said.
A résumé and a cover letter should not be longer than a page each, advisor's say. Job applicants are advised to talk about their experiences and knowledge as briefly as possible.
“The less you have to explain, the better,” Mr. Hammond said.
Therefore it should be easy to read, job advisors say.
Ms. Oestreich said that professional appearence and confidence are also things that hiring managers look for, aside from the required qualifications.
Applicants should be accurate and honest in their résumé, Mr. Alston said.
Lying in a résumé will result in a termination of the contract, he added.
As job positions may be available unexpectedly, job candidates are adviced to keep their résumés up to date.
Companies may ask for a list of references.
“Professors are an excellent reference to use,” Ms. Oestreich said.
Former employers or collegues may also be used in a list of references.
Aside from résumés, there is also the interview process. Interviewees should look professional and avoid having piercings in visible places or odd-colored hair at an the interview.
Some companies do checks on their applicants' social network activities.
“Be careful about what you post on the public domain,” Mr. Alston said.
It should be a straightforward script and typed in 12-point letters in a serious font, said Mr. Christopher Hammond, an English teacher at the American School of Kosova.
Ms. Connie Oestreich, a human resources officer at the Embassy of the United States of America in Prishtina, pointed out that the paper used for the résumé and the cover letter should be of high quality. She suggests beige or grey and a thick, linen material.
There are several ways to draft a résumé. Job advisors say that job candidates should include education, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, indications of any published content, research experience, as well as knowledge in the use of software and foreign languages.
Candidates should highlight their accomplishments, Mr. Hammond said.
Job advisors encourage university graduates to talk about the focus of their studies.
Work experience is very important, said Mr. Terry Alston, the human resources manager at the Embassy of the United States of America.
When facing a competition of 500 résumés a week and 700 to 1,000 résumés per job position, job applicants should be aware of brevity, he said.
A résumé and a cover letter should not be longer than a page each, advisor's say. Job applicants are advised to talk about their experiences and knowledge as briefly as possible.
“The less you have to explain, the better,” Mr. Hammond said.
Therefore it should be easy to read, job advisors say.
Ms. Oestreich said that professional appearence and confidence are also things that hiring managers look for, aside from the required qualifications.
Applicants should be accurate and honest in their résumé, Mr. Alston said.
Lying in a résumé will result in a termination of the contract, he added.
As job positions may be available unexpectedly, job candidates are adviced to keep their résumés up to date.
Companies may ask for a list of references.
“Professors are an excellent reference to use,” Ms. Oestreich said.
Former employers or collegues may also be used in a list of references.
Aside from résumés, there is also the interview process. Interviewees should look professional and avoid having piercings in visible places or odd-colored hair at an the interview.
Some companies do checks on their applicants' social network activities.
“Be careful about what you post on the public domain,” Mr. Alston said.
Work and Travel
by Leon Beqiri
Blend Konushevci, a was a former participant of the W&T program, was kind enough to provide the essentials of the journey. Here he is in his photography studio while being interviewed.
The global crisis is proving to be a much more serious matter than we realized, as employment rates have hit rock bottom in developing countries and opportunities are scarce. Contrary to this belief, Blend Konushevci has jump-started his work experience by participating in a Work and Travel exchange program offered here in Kosova.
„You have to get out there and make it happen,“ said the undergraduate student. Blend is in his third year at the University of Prishtina studying accounting and finance. After repeated dissapointment of not finding a suitable job, Blend and two of his friends came upon an offer they „simply could not let go.“
They heard about an organization called Intrax. This company offers exchange programs ranging from educational to career oriented students, families, companies, and/or individuals. The mission is to provide both the students and host families with unique and personal connections that would increase cultural understanding and inspire mutual respect and personal growth.
It has been around since 1980, when founded in Japan, and continues to offer a variety of programs. Work and Travel is only one of these many cultural exchange programs. Aside from work, Intrax also provides high-quality education and volunteer programs worldwide.
Blend Konushevci, who was born in Peja, together with his friends, took on a journey they still „cherish“ up to this day. For a mere €860, Blend and his two friends had the opportunity to go to the U.S. to obtain a summer job, a duration of around 4 months in total. Included with this fee was the J-1 visa required for working exchange students, health insurance, a secure job, and student aid provided to overcome difficult times.
The only thing left to pay was a return ticket rounding off to about €680, which included a one night stay in London, and the housing fee of $1400 per month. The housing fee was then divided into six individual payments of $250 each when three Russian exchange students moved in. On top of it all, the Intrax service payments and return ticket were refundable in case of a failed visa application.
As though that is not enough, Blend found a job as a foodrunner at a Hard Rock Caffe in Denver, Colorado. A foodrunner is the waitor that brings the food to your table. That is the only job of the foodrunner.
Now, as you might mistakenly imply, a foodrunner doesn't sound like a very profitable postion to have at a restaurant. Rest be assured, on top of a $4 an hour wage, Blend got 1% of all profits made by the waitors for that day. If that doesn't sound profitably convincing, then the fact that these waitors were making up to $20,000 a day probably will.
„The job was astoundingly convenient to the point where I was frightened of getting sucked into it,“ said Mr. Konushevci.“Nevertheless, everyday was a new challenge.“
In addition to job opportunities, these participants get to travel the United States. The program is scheduled with three and a half months of work and two bonus weeks of intended for tourism. „I got to see the big cities such as New York, Washington D.C., Boston, Ocean City, and the likes of Atlantic City.“
„After working four months away from their native country, participants of the Work and Travel program become more mature, more independent, more proactive and return home with significantly better knowledge of the English language,“ says the managing partner of Intrax in the territory of Kosova, Arber Loxha.
The experience of meeting diverse cultures and getting to know education systems, transport, taxes,laws and other factors that make the U.S. the „land of opportunity“ establishes a new sense of independence that every young person is looking for.
„Someone equiped with the skills and determination will definitely achieve great results, no matter the field,“ added the young economist.
So, one might ask how the selection and application process is carried out, as well as the eligibility criteria for the program. „In order to be part of the program you need to be from 18 to 26 years of age, a regular student in any of the universities in Kosova, with a proficient level of English, and pass exams regularly.“
There are about 300 positions offered to Kosovar students annually, but the usual number ranges from 180 to 200. Intrax offices are globally renowned and many offices are located in the Ballkans as well. Today Intrax has a presence in more than 100 countries around the world and welcomes more than 21,000 participants into its programs each year. There are also offices in the capital cities of Bulgaria, Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia.
The global crisis is proving to be a much more serious matter than we realized, as employment rates have hit rock bottom in developing countries and opportunities are scarce. Contrary to this belief, Blend Konushevci has jump-started his work experience by participating in a Work and Travel exchange program offered here in Kosova.
„You have to get out there and make it happen,“ said the undergraduate student. Blend is in his third year at the University of Prishtina studying accounting and finance. After repeated dissapointment of not finding a suitable job, Blend and two of his friends came upon an offer they „simply could not let go.“
They heard about an organization called Intrax. This company offers exchange programs ranging from educational to career oriented students, families, companies, and/or individuals. The mission is to provide both the students and host families with unique and personal connections that would increase cultural understanding and inspire mutual respect and personal growth.
It has been around since 1980, when founded in Japan, and continues to offer a variety of programs. Work and Travel is only one of these many cultural exchange programs. Aside from work, Intrax also provides high-quality education and volunteer programs worldwide.
Blend Konushevci, who was born in Peja, together with his friends, took on a journey they still „cherish“ up to this day. For a mere €860, Blend and his two friends had the opportunity to go to the U.S. to obtain a summer job, a duration of around 4 months in total. Included with this fee was the J-1 visa required for working exchange students, health insurance, a secure job, and student aid provided to overcome difficult times.
The only thing left to pay was a return ticket rounding off to about €680, which included a one night stay in London, and the housing fee of $1400 per month. The housing fee was then divided into six individual payments of $250 each when three Russian exchange students moved in. On top of it all, the Intrax service payments and return ticket were refundable in case of a failed visa application.
As though that is not enough, Blend found a job as a foodrunner at a Hard Rock Caffe in Denver, Colorado. A foodrunner is the waitor that brings the food to your table. That is the only job of the foodrunner.
Now, as you might mistakenly imply, a foodrunner doesn't sound like a very profitable postion to have at a restaurant. Rest be assured, on top of a $4 an hour wage, Blend got 1% of all profits made by the waitors for that day. If that doesn't sound profitably convincing, then the fact that these waitors were making up to $20,000 a day probably will.
„The job was astoundingly convenient to the point where I was frightened of getting sucked into it,“ said Mr. Konushevci.“Nevertheless, everyday was a new challenge.“
In addition to job opportunities, these participants get to travel the United States. The program is scheduled with three and a half months of work and two bonus weeks of intended for tourism. „I got to see the big cities such as New York, Washington D.C., Boston, Ocean City, and the likes of Atlantic City.“
„After working four months away from their native country, participants of the Work and Travel program become more mature, more independent, more proactive and return home with significantly better knowledge of the English language,“ says the managing partner of Intrax in the territory of Kosova, Arber Loxha.
The experience of meeting diverse cultures and getting to know education systems, transport, taxes,laws and other factors that make the U.S. the „land of opportunity“ establishes a new sense of independence that every young person is looking for.
„Someone equiped with the skills and determination will definitely achieve great results, no matter the field,“ added the young economist.
So, one might ask how the selection and application process is carried out, as well as the eligibility criteria for the program. „In order to be part of the program you need to be from 18 to 26 years of age, a regular student in any of the universities in Kosova, with a proficient level of English, and pass exams regularly.“
There are about 300 positions offered to Kosovar students annually, but the usual number ranges from 180 to 200. Intrax offices are globally renowned and many offices are located in the Ballkans as well. Today Intrax has a presence in more than 100 countries around the world and welcomes more than 21,000 participants into its programs each year. There are also offices in the capital cities of Bulgaria, Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia.
Family Business
by Arian Selmani
Qendresa Hoxha is takes notes whilst being interviewed in the office.
Throughout the world, a lot of businesses have been heir to family ancestors. In some countries, mostly large corporations’ are family-owned. And sometimes this has impact on people to choose their study carrier. One of the most famous family-owned businesses, Hilton Hotels, founded by Conrad Hilton, it is one of the largest chains of hotels and restaurant all over the world. Usually the top two managers of the company are part of the family. But this depends on the country, and also the culture.
Luan Hoxha, a junior student at the American School of Kosova, works part time at his father’s business. “Jaha Company”, a company that was founded in the year 2001 by Fadil Hoxha, Luan’s father. Since Luan hasn't finish school yet, he works with the Marketing department. During summer he works full time, but since he’s on school, he usually goes during Saturday and Sunday. His passion on working on his family business has been since he was little.
He remembers telling his dad, when he grows up, he’s going to work in his company. He explains his daily job as a busy day, since his responsibility is not only to advertise, but also to take care of other workers. His relationships with others on the company are great. He respects everyone, and they respect him back.
On the other hand, Qendresa Hoxha, an employee in the public relation department at the American School of Kosovo, works for her family business. She explains how working for her family business is a big responsibility, and needs full attention.
“It’s a good feeling, it’s like being home”, Qendresa said.
She supports the fact that sometimes having a family business impacts your studying. She wanted to study arts, but the family business impacted her to study something different than that.
She use to be a student at ASK, and she believed that one day she’ll be working for her family, in the same school that she finished high school, 2003-07.
Her plans are to work here, and why not expand her family business.
Throughout the world, a lot of businesses have been heir to family ancestors. In some countries, mostly large corporations’ are family-owned. And sometimes this has impact on people to choose their study carrier. One of the most famous family-owned businesses, Hilton Hotels, founded by Conrad Hilton, it is one of the largest chains of hotels and restaurant all over the world. Usually the top two managers of the company are part of the family. But this depends on the country, and also the culture.
Luan Hoxha, a junior student at the American School of Kosova, works part time at his father’s business. “Jaha Company”, a company that was founded in the year 2001 by Fadil Hoxha, Luan’s father. Since Luan hasn't finish school yet, he works with the Marketing department. During summer he works full time, but since he’s on school, he usually goes during Saturday and Sunday. His passion on working on his family business has been since he was little.
He remembers telling his dad, when he grows up, he’s going to work in his company. He explains his daily job as a busy day, since his responsibility is not only to advertise, but also to take care of other workers. His relationships with others on the company are great. He respects everyone, and they respect him back.
On the other hand, Qendresa Hoxha, an employee in the public relation department at the American School of Kosovo, works for her family business. She explains how working for her family business is a big responsibility, and needs full attention.
“It’s a good feeling, it’s like being home”, Qendresa said.
She supports the fact that sometimes having a family business impacts your studying. She wanted to study arts, but the family business impacted her to study something different than that.
She use to be a student at ASK, and she believed that one day she’ll be working for her family, in the same school that she finished high school, 2003-07.
Her plans are to work here, and why not expand her family business.
The School Store
by Alfred Rémon
Delvina Blabçori works with Alisa Jashari and Nita Shillova to get the store ready.
On Monday the 25th the business class is going to open a store. Near the lunch area they will sell some school material. They still don’t know yet when it will open and close. The money will go to a charity. The store manager will be Nita Shillova and Delvina Blabçori.
Nita Shillova one of the manager said “It will be a nice experience and challenge for as; it will also be a legacy for the school.”
On Monday the 25th the business class is going to open a store. Near the lunch area they will sell some school material. They still don’t know yet when it will open and close. The money will go to a charity. The store manager will be Nita Shillova and Delvina Blabçori.
Nita Shillova one of the manager said “It will be a nice experience and challenge for as; it will also be a legacy for the school.”
Summer Jobs
by Doruntin Shabani
Labinot Hajradini explains his experience about becoming a waiter.
Asdren Sela, a senior student at American School of Kosova, during last summer, got a job as graphic designer, at Rrota Creative Studios only by having knowledge on Adobe Photoshop. His cousin knew someone that worked in the company and she set up an interview for Asdren. He did the interview and sent to the company the documents and proofs that he knew how to work with Adobe Photoshop, and few days later they told him that he was accepted.
Since the unemployment rate in Kosova is one of the highest in the Balkans and maybe in whole Europe, getting a job is really hard, especially for teenagers. However, Asdren managed to get a summer job.
In other places of Europe there are a lot of part time jobs where teenagers can work. In Kosova, there are a lot of people who finished their universities and still cannot find a job; therefore they are forced to work something that they are not qualified for. This means that in order to get a job, a teenager should have also a lot of background information about the job and how it is done, because there are qualified people who can also do that job. Asdren had knowledge on Adobe Photoshop, which he got to learn to use it in school, while other teenagers do not have this chance.
Labinot Hajradini, another student at ASK, had to work two weeks without getting paid, because he had to get some experience to start working as a waiter at restaurant “Ibri”, in Mitrovica.
Artrin Bajrami, a student at ASK, worked as internship at the Department of Treasury where he gained a lot of experience about money and finance.
Since there are a lot of people who are able to do one job, managers find the ones who can do it for less money and are as efficient as others. This describes the fact that Asdren, Labinot and Artrin were not paid as much as they should have been paid.
In the other hand Asdren worked because he did not want to spend entire summer staying at home, when instead he could work and get some money.
Labinot said, “Even though I did not get paid well, it is better than staying at home”.
While Artrin worked because he wanted to gain experience and insight on money management and effective finance, and this would also help him for being accepted at a good university.
There are several jobs where teenagers could work, but first they need to have some experience about the job and also they are not guaranteed that they get good pay.
Asdren Sela, a senior student at American School of Kosova, during last summer, got a job as graphic designer, at Rrota Creative Studios only by having knowledge on Adobe Photoshop. His cousin knew someone that worked in the company and she set up an interview for Asdren. He did the interview and sent to the company the documents and proofs that he knew how to work with Adobe Photoshop, and few days later they told him that he was accepted.
Since the unemployment rate in Kosova is one of the highest in the Balkans and maybe in whole Europe, getting a job is really hard, especially for teenagers. However, Asdren managed to get a summer job.
In other places of Europe there are a lot of part time jobs where teenagers can work. In Kosova, there are a lot of people who finished their universities and still cannot find a job; therefore they are forced to work something that they are not qualified for. This means that in order to get a job, a teenager should have also a lot of background information about the job and how it is done, because there are qualified people who can also do that job. Asdren had knowledge on Adobe Photoshop, which he got to learn to use it in school, while other teenagers do not have this chance.
Labinot Hajradini, another student at ASK, had to work two weeks without getting paid, because he had to get some experience to start working as a waiter at restaurant “Ibri”, in Mitrovica.
Artrin Bajrami, a student at ASK, worked as internship at the Department of Treasury where he gained a lot of experience about money and finance.
Since there are a lot of people who are able to do one job, managers find the ones who can do it for less money and are as efficient as others. This describes the fact that Asdren, Labinot and Artrin were not paid as much as they should have been paid.
In the other hand Asdren worked because he did not want to spend entire summer staying at home, when instead he could work and get some money.
Labinot said, “Even though I did not get paid well, it is better than staying at home”.
While Artrin worked because he wanted to gain experience and insight on money management and effective finance, and this would also help him for being accepted at a good university.
There are several jobs where teenagers could work, but first they need to have some experience about the job and also they are not guaranteed that they get good pay.
Volunteering Commentary
by Monika Rodiqi
Monika Rodiqi
Volunteering gives you a sense of social fulfillment, and makes it easier for you to achieve goals and make career plans.
According to the Oxford Online English Dictionary, volunteer (noun) means “a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task” or “a person who works for an organization without being paid”. Being a volunteer raises your awareness of the world, beyond your usual perspective. Especially for us, the new generation, volunteering opens doors yet inexperienced, and gives us a taste of the real world. When introduced to all the responsibilities and the hard work that are required to succeed in a job, young people discover what is worth all that effort to them.
“Volunteering helps students gain job experience, and get ideas about what do they want to become,” said Miss Allison Peterson. Miss Peterson manages a project with “The Ideas Partnership” in Fushe-Kosova involving the education of Roma children. Students who volunteer with this project teach the children English and math. “When young people volunteer, they learn to meet expectations and adhere to schedules,” she added. About 10 ASK students have volunteered in this project more than once. That is a relatively small number compared to the number of students that volunteered with “Let’s Do It Kosova” last year. “Let’s Do It Kosova” was a nation-wide environmental project, held on the 24th of May last year. A total of 83252 people throughout Kosova volunteered to clean the environment. “That was probably because it was just a day long, and there was no more commitment to it,” said Miss Peterson, regarding the number of ASK students that showed up for the cleaning. Volunteer work in Kosova was brought to attention when a research about it was conducted by three high school students from Peja, for the 4th Kosovar and Regional Student Conference about Social Issues. It also showed that out of the people that have volunteered, most took part in environmental projects.
Mr. Erëblir Kadriu, the guidance counselor at ASK, shares similar beliefs to Miss Peterson on student volunteering. As the guidance counselor, he encourages volunteering so that students gain experience, and apply the knowledge they get at school. “Volunteering helps students because (1) they enable to have practical experiences, (2) they meet other people and exchange experiences, and (3) they contribute to a cause or help someone,” said Mr. Erëblir. He also noted that extra-curricular activities and community service are very important factors in college admissions, because they show that in addition to the good academic records, that student has a high degree of social activity and responsibility. “The more volunteer work the student has done, the more impressive he/she will be during university admissions,” he added. According to Mr. Erëblir, there are a lot of volunteering opportunities for young people in Kosova. Mr. Erëblir offered to help students find these opportunities. Red Cross Kosova, Mother Theresa, American Advising Center, and International Progressive Education are some of the places that offer volunteering opportunities, which were mentioned during the interview.
I have volunteering experience on my own, and it has significantly raised my awareness of the “adult” world. Those experiences have helped me establish an independent character, and have given me a taste of what it is like to have a job. Therefore, having in mind what you gain from it, I highly recommend volunteering.
According to the Oxford Online English Dictionary, volunteer (noun) means “a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task” or “a person who works for an organization without being paid”. Being a volunteer raises your awareness of the world, beyond your usual perspective. Especially for us, the new generation, volunteering opens doors yet inexperienced, and gives us a taste of the real world. When introduced to all the responsibilities and the hard work that are required to succeed in a job, young people discover what is worth all that effort to them.
“Volunteering helps students gain job experience, and get ideas about what do they want to become,” said Miss Allison Peterson. Miss Peterson manages a project with “The Ideas Partnership” in Fushe-Kosova involving the education of Roma children. Students who volunteer with this project teach the children English and math. “When young people volunteer, they learn to meet expectations and adhere to schedules,” she added. About 10 ASK students have volunteered in this project more than once. That is a relatively small number compared to the number of students that volunteered with “Let’s Do It Kosova” last year. “Let’s Do It Kosova” was a nation-wide environmental project, held on the 24th of May last year. A total of 83252 people throughout Kosova volunteered to clean the environment. “That was probably because it was just a day long, and there was no more commitment to it,” said Miss Peterson, regarding the number of ASK students that showed up for the cleaning. Volunteer work in Kosova was brought to attention when a research about it was conducted by three high school students from Peja, for the 4th Kosovar and Regional Student Conference about Social Issues. It also showed that out of the people that have volunteered, most took part in environmental projects.
Mr. Erëblir Kadriu, the guidance counselor at ASK, shares similar beliefs to Miss Peterson on student volunteering. As the guidance counselor, he encourages volunteering so that students gain experience, and apply the knowledge they get at school. “Volunteering helps students because (1) they enable to have practical experiences, (2) they meet other people and exchange experiences, and (3) they contribute to a cause or help someone,” said Mr. Erëblir. He also noted that extra-curricular activities and community service are very important factors in college admissions, because they show that in addition to the good academic records, that student has a high degree of social activity and responsibility. “The more volunteer work the student has done, the more impressive he/she will be during university admissions,” he added. According to Mr. Erëblir, there are a lot of volunteering opportunities for young people in Kosova. Mr. Erëblir offered to help students find these opportunities. Red Cross Kosova, Mother Theresa, American Advising Center, and International Progressive Education are some of the places that offer volunteering opportunities, which were mentioned during the interview.
I have volunteering experience on my own, and it has significantly raised my awareness of the “adult” world. Those experiences have helped me establish an independent character, and have given me a taste of what it is like to have a job. Therefore, having in mind what you gain from it, I highly recommend volunteering.
Tutoring
by Mrika Mustafa
Diellza Salihu shares how she tutors her friend, Agnesa Ejupi.
The American School of Kosova has students that have the ability to not only be excellent students but to teach others. Diellza Salihu, a student at the American School of Kosova teaches her friend Agnesa Ejupi. They meet at Diellza’s house where Agnesa is taught English.
Where did this idea come from ?
‘’My friend came to me in a time of need. She had a test the following week and needed help to study for English. She came to me with the idea that I can teach her English’’ Diellza said.
Is it difficult for you to teach her?
‘’At the beginning it was a bit complicated, and I wasn’t sure ,But then I got used to it’’, said Diellza.
By tutoring do you get any advantage?
‘’I get the experience of teaching and I also get paid’’.
How much do you get paid?
‘’I would like to keep it private’’ said Diellza.
How many times a week do you tutor?
‘’Two times a week, Saturdays and Sundays.”
Do you also have enough time for you to study and finish your work? Do you have any disturbing in your private life from tutoring?
‘’I do have time for my own work; I try to manage my time as best I can. Tutoring Agnesa does not disturb me at all in my private life’’ said Diellza.
Did it disturb your family when you decided to totter in your house?
‘’No because I have my own room where I totter, and my mother was proud of me’’.
Do you get well with your student?
‘’Yes of course, we have a good friend relationship’’.
Do you have any think you would like to add?
‘’No, thank you it was nice to talk for my work’’.
Can I contact with you?
‘’Yes sure’’.
The American School of Kosova has students that have the ability to not only be excellent students but to teach others. Diellza Salihu, a student at the American School of Kosova teaches her friend Agnesa Ejupi. They meet at Diellza’s house where Agnesa is taught English.
Where did this idea come from ?
‘’My friend came to me in a time of need. She had a test the following week and needed help to study for English. She came to me with the idea that I can teach her English’’ Diellza said.
Is it difficult for you to teach her?
‘’At the beginning it was a bit complicated, and I wasn’t sure ,But then I got used to it’’, said Diellza.
By tutoring do you get any advantage?
‘’I get the experience of teaching and I also get paid’’.
How much do you get paid?
‘’I would like to keep it private’’ said Diellza.
How many times a week do you tutor?
‘’Two times a week, Saturdays and Sundays.”
Do you also have enough time for you to study and finish your work? Do you have any disturbing in your private life from tutoring?
‘’I do have time for my own work; I try to manage my time as best I can. Tutoring Agnesa does not disturb me at all in my private life’’ said Diellza.
Did it disturb your family when you decided to totter in your house?
‘’No because I have my own room where I totter, and my mother was proud of me’’.
Do you get well with your student?
‘’Yes of course, we have a good friend relationship’’.
Do you have any think you would like to add?
‘’No, thank you it was nice to talk for my work’’.
Can I contact with you?
‘’Yes sure’’.
The cleaning ladies -- respected by the students
By Mrika Mustafa
There are a lot of different people who contribute to make the American School of Kosova work better. There are people like the principal, teachers, guards, and cleaning ladies. Cleaning ladies are the ones who keep the school fresh and clean. Every day from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., cleaning ladies put their effort into making our school spotless.
Ms. Adelina Fetahu and Ms. Maliqe Gashi say there isn’t any hard or dangerous part to their job.
“The students respect us a lot,” they said. “Also, we have a good time with our colleagues. We help each other when needed, we are very good friends, and we enjoy working together.”
They said that their best time during the work is when it’s lunchtime and they can have a break and stay together.
Ms. Adelina and Ms. Maliqe said that when there is no toilet paper in the bathrooms, it’s because the students are using too much of it.
“It isn’t our fault,” they said.
There are a lot of different people who contribute to make the American School of Kosova work better. There are people like the principal, teachers, guards, and cleaning ladies. Cleaning ladies are the ones who keep the school fresh and clean. Every day from Monday to Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., cleaning ladies put their effort into making our school spotless.
Ms. Adelina Fetahu and Ms. Maliqe Gashi say there isn’t any hard or dangerous part to their job.
“The students respect us a lot,” they said. “Also, we have a good time with our colleagues. We help each other when needed, we are very good friends, and we enjoy working together.”
They said that their best time during the work is when it’s lunchtime and they can have a break and stay together.
Ms. Adelina and Ms. Maliqe said that when there is no toilet paper in the bathrooms, it’s because the students are using too much of it.
“It isn’t our fault,” they said.
Commentary
SIC unites different ideas of different ethnicities
By Katja Basinkevich
The Social Issues Conference is a great event that gives young people in the Balkans an opportunity to speak up about issues that concern them and the chance to be heard by a large audience, including high school students and state officials.
Earlier this month, teams from all over the Balkans attended this annual event at the American School of Kosova, presenting their research findings on current social issues.
But the most important breakthrough was not in the content of the presentations, but in the relationships of the presenters.
On the first day of the conference, presenters from Serbia were treated with kindness and respect during their presentations. The Serbian participants also returned the respect to the presenting teams from Kosovo. While people were presenting, the rest of the audience was listening carefully, and people asked questions at the end of each presentation.
The group on stage showed great manners by answering the questions in a polite and clear way. This was great to see for international people whose media often brings only bad news about the relationship between Kosovar and Serbian people.
The friendly interaction between people of the two ethnicities, even on this small scale, showed an important development in the ability of both Albanians and Serbs to understand and respect each other as people.
The Social Issues Conference is a great event that gives young people in the Balkans an opportunity to speak up about issues that concern them and the chance to be heard by a large audience, including high school students and state officials.
Earlier this month, teams from all over the Balkans attended this annual event at the American School of Kosova, presenting their research findings on current social issues.
But the most important breakthrough was not in the content of the presentations, but in the relationships of the presenters.
On the first day of the conference, presenters from Serbia were treated with kindness and respect during their presentations. The Serbian participants also returned the respect to the presenting teams from Kosovo. While people were presenting, the rest of the audience was listening carefully, and people asked questions at the end of each presentation.
The group on stage showed great manners by answering the questions in a polite and clear way. This was great to see for international people whose media often brings only bad news about the relationship between Kosovar and Serbian people.
The friendly interaction between people of the two ethnicities, even on this small scale, showed an important development in the ability of both Albanians and Serbs to understand and respect each other as people.
What are people doing for winter break
By Saranda Sejdija
The winter break has come and many students and teachers are going away for tourism, to relax, to see family and to celebrate.
Junior Viona Zharku is hoping for a family trip to Turkey, she said.
“I’ll go to my hometown, Kaçanik,” Viona said. “If we go to Turkey, I’ll obviously celebrate and go shopping. I would go to Turkey because I want to celebrate New Year somewhere else and see how it feels.”
Teachers, too, are taking the chance to travel.
“I am going to my hometown in Wisconsin, because the holidays are the only times I feel homesick, so the winter break gives me a chance to see and spend time with my family,” said Miss Natalie Kainz, a business and U.S. history teacher. “When I get there, I will spend time with my brother, my sister, my parents, and my other family and friends.”
Mr. Mike Yohnk is fulfilling a lifelong dream during the break.
“I am going to Jordan and Egypt, because I have always wanted to see the pyramids that are in Egypt, and Jordan looks like a pretty cool place to go, too,” said Mr. Yohnk, a world history and business teacher. “While I am there, I will avoid the protests in Egypt, and hopefully see ancient things in both Egypt and Jordan.”
Junior Emma Gjebrea-Brown doesn’t have definite plans yet. She will plan her winter vacation on Wednesday, when her friend comes to visit from the UK, she said.
“I want to go to Greece because we always go there when she visits,” Emma said. “If we go to Greece, we will go and stay in a nice hotel, do good shopping, indoor swimming, and other activities like walking and going to the cinema. I would also enjoy time away from Kosova.”
The winter break has come and many students and teachers are going away for tourism, to relax, to see family and to celebrate.
Junior Viona Zharku is hoping for a family trip to Turkey, she said.
“I’ll go to my hometown, Kaçanik,” Viona said. “If we go to Turkey, I’ll obviously celebrate and go shopping. I would go to Turkey because I want to celebrate New Year somewhere else and see how it feels.”
Teachers, too, are taking the chance to travel.
“I am going to my hometown in Wisconsin, because the holidays are the only times I feel homesick, so the winter break gives me a chance to see and spend time with my family,” said Miss Natalie Kainz, a business and U.S. history teacher. “When I get there, I will spend time with my brother, my sister, my parents, and my other family and friends.”
Mr. Mike Yohnk is fulfilling a lifelong dream during the break.
“I am going to Jordan and Egypt, because I have always wanted to see the pyramids that are in Egypt, and Jordan looks like a pretty cool place to go, too,” said Mr. Yohnk, a world history and business teacher. “While I am there, I will avoid the protests in Egypt, and hopefully see ancient things in both Egypt and Jordan.”
Junior Emma Gjebrea-Brown doesn’t have definite plans yet. She will plan her winter vacation on Wednesday, when her friend comes to visit from the UK, she said.
“I want to go to Greece because we always go there when she visits,” Emma said. “If we go to Greece, we will go and stay in a nice hotel, do good shopping, indoor swimming, and other activities like walking and going to the cinema. I would also enjoy time away from Kosova.”
A new friend from Serbia
By Arian Selmani
Gala Patenkovic, Serbia, felt welcome in Kosovo and even made new friends at the regional social issues conference earlier this month, she said.
This sort of cross-cultural connection is not as big a surprise as it used to be. This is the ninth year of the regional conference, which draws students from around the Balkans to the American School of Kosova.
But this wasn’t Gala’s first visit to Kosova; last year she submitted a study on the LGBT community in Serbia and got accepted. A well-organized conference, a great reception, but most of all, great people, were the things that made submit a study and come back. Coming again to Kosova wasn’t a fear for her at all, she said.
”I was treated better than I thought,” Patenkovic said.
On her exchange year in the United States, she met a Kosovar Albanian student, Kreshnik Deliu, who was also part of the exchange program. Getting to know Kreshnik showed her that there is no reason to fear going to Kosova.
People in Kosova treated her wonderfully, she said. She had the greatest experience, and she was very sad to leave, she added. But she hopes that she can get opportunities to return soon. She would also suggest to students from all over The Balkans to participate in this conference, to present their topics and to talk to everyone about the issues their countries face. Meeting so many awesome people was for her definitely the best part, she said. Other people should have similar experiences, she said.
“I will share these stories and this amazing experience with others,” she said. She also hopes that more Serbian students get interested and apply and create this Serbo-Albanian bond and tolerance slowly, but steadily. Maybe she will write an article about that process, she said.
For this year, though, Gala presented her paper, “Discrimination and racism between youth,” which examined some football fan hooligans who are quite widespread in Serbia.
She found that more than 89% of students that she interviewed hear words of hatred and discrimination toward people of other nationalities at sporting events. This endangers basic human rights of people threatened, according to 75% of them.
Gala started working on her study few weeks before the deadline. She chose the issue that most interested her. She surveyed mostly Serb high school students from Belgrade, Novi Sad, Vrbas and Zajecar.
At the end, Patenkovic said that every year this conference gets better and better and said, in Albanian, “Faleminderit” for such a warm welcome. And she also wanted to let young people from Kosova know that they have Serbian friends and that they are always welcome in Serbia.
Gala Patenkovic, Serbia, felt welcome in Kosovo and even made new friends at the regional social issues conference earlier this month, she said.
This sort of cross-cultural connection is not as big a surprise as it used to be. This is the ninth year of the regional conference, which draws students from around the Balkans to the American School of Kosova.
But this wasn’t Gala’s first visit to Kosova; last year she submitted a study on the LGBT community in Serbia and got accepted. A well-organized conference, a great reception, but most of all, great people, were the things that made submit a study and come back. Coming again to Kosova wasn’t a fear for her at all, she said.
”I was treated better than I thought,” Patenkovic said.
On her exchange year in the United States, she met a Kosovar Albanian student, Kreshnik Deliu, who was also part of the exchange program. Getting to know Kreshnik showed her that there is no reason to fear going to Kosova.
People in Kosova treated her wonderfully, she said. She had the greatest experience, and she was very sad to leave, she added. But she hopes that she can get opportunities to return soon. She would also suggest to students from all over The Balkans to participate in this conference, to present their topics and to talk to everyone about the issues their countries face. Meeting so many awesome people was for her definitely the best part, she said. Other people should have similar experiences, she said.
“I will share these stories and this amazing experience with others,” she said. She also hopes that more Serbian students get interested and apply and create this Serbo-Albanian bond and tolerance slowly, but steadily. Maybe she will write an article about that process, she said.
For this year, though, Gala presented her paper, “Discrimination and racism between youth,” which examined some football fan hooligans who are quite widespread in Serbia.
She found that more than 89% of students that she interviewed hear words of hatred and discrimination toward people of other nationalities at sporting events. This endangers basic human rights of people threatened, according to 75% of them.
Gala started working on her study few weeks before the deadline. She chose the issue that most interested her. She surveyed mostly Serb high school students from Belgrade, Novi Sad, Vrbas and Zajecar.
At the end, Patenkovic said that every year this conference gets better and better and said, in Albanian, “Faleminderit” for such a warm welcome. And she also wanted to let young people from Kosova know that they have Serbian friends and that they are always welcome in Serbia.
Ljubica and her experience in Kosova
By Marigona Kastrati
Ljubica Pavlovic, a Serbian girl, was excited and scared. She was coming to Kosovo for the first time, but relatives and other Serbians told her that Kosovo is dangerous for Serbs.
Two members of her group presenting at the Regional Social Issues Conference in Prishtina did not come because their parents were so worried that something might happen.
The history that lies between Kosovo and Serbia is a huge deal, Ljubica said. And the others were scared to come, since they thought something bad might happen to them.
However, Ljubica was glad that she took the chance and came to Kosovo, even though people advised her against it.
And it paid off, she said. Ljubica enjoyed the conference and her time here. The people were nice, in contrast to the image people back home had painted, she said. Her firsthand experience here was a great education, and she plans to come and visit again.
Ljubica hopes that more people from Kosovo visit Serbia — and vice versa — to encourage mutual understanding among youth of both places.
Ljubica Pavlovic, a Serbian girl, was excited and scared. She was coming to Kosovo for the first time, but relatives and other Serbians told her that Kosovo is dangerous for Serbs.
Two members of her group presenting at the Regional Social Issues Conference in Prishtina did not come because their parents were so worried that something might happen.
The history that lies between Kosovo and Serbia is a huge deal, Ljubica said. And the others were scared to come, since they thought something bad might happen to them.
However, Ljubica was glad that she took the chance and came to Kosovo, even though people advised her against it.
And it paid off, she said. Ljubica enjoyed the conference and her time here. The people were nice, in contrast to the image people back home had painted, she said. Her firsthand experience here was a great education, and she plans to come and visit again.
Ljubica hopes that more people from Kosovo visit Serbia — and vice versa — to encourage mutual understanding among youth of both places.
Vending machine funds school
By Saranda Sejdija
11/15/2012
Money from the snack vending machine is used in the school, according to the person in charge of it.
Besim Ahmeti, the school’s gardener, fills the vending machine about three times a day. Mr. Besim collects the money and gives it to his boss, Dardan Rahani, ASK’s deputy operations manager.
But where the money goes next is not clear.
“The money goes to pay for other things,” Besim said through a translator.
But Mr. Dardan elaborated.
“The money goes to 10 other places around the school,” he said.
The items from the machine come from a huge market called “Oaza.” Oaza is known as a warehouse-style market.
Mr. Dardan plans to look at the machine to see if there is room for healthier items. If there is room, he will add some, he said.
It’s not clear who or what profits from the machine’s sales. Superintendent Mr. Ardian Hoxha was not available for an interview by publication time.
11/15/2012
Money from the snack vending machine is used in the school, according to the person in charge of it.
Besim Ahmeti, the school’s gardener, fills the vending machine about three times a day. Mr. Besim collects the money and gives it to his boss, Dardan Rahani, ASK’s deputy operations manager.
But where the money goes next is not clear.
“The money goes to pay for other things,” Besim said through a translator.
But Mr. Dardan elaborated.
“The money goes to 10 other places around the school,” he said.
The items from the machine come from a huge market called “Oaza.” Oaza is known as a warehouse-style market.
Mr. Dardan plans to look at the machine to see if there is room for healthier items. If there is room, he will add some, he said.
It’s not clear who or what profits from the machine’s sales. Superintendent Mr. Ardian Hoxha was not available for an interview by publication time.
What do new students think about the American School of Kosova?
By Mrika Mustafa
A new year started at ASK with lots of new student and new teachers. Many students came from many different places. New faces, personalities and new opinions became part of the school. These students were used to the methods of their previous schools. Two new sophomore students shared their opinions about the school. Diellza Salihu, sophomore Where and what did you first hear about American School of Kosova? Diellza: I’ve always heard good things about this school . My older brother and sister were students before in this school, and they really liked it so I wanted to try it, too. |
How was the first day of school at ASK?
Diellza: It was weird, because there were many students I didn’t know, and it was confusing . What do you think about the teachers ? Diellza: They are very polite, and great professors. Who is your favorite teacher ? Diellza: I don’t have a favorite teacher because I like them all. How did you expect the school to be? Diellza: Like this. It is a great school. My beginning in this school is wonderful. Shpresim Mustafa, Sophomore Where and what did you first hear about American School of Kosova? Shpresim: My brother was a student in this school, so he (advised) me to come to this school. I heard many good things about this school. How was the first day of school at ASK? Shpresim: It was good. I also had a lot of emotions. What do you think about the teachers? Shpresim: They are very strict. I like some of the teachers; some, no. Who is your favorite teacher? Shpresim: My favorite teachers are the math teacher Mr. Izedin and English teacher Miss Alexa. How did you expect the school to be? Shpresim : I expected it to be easier than it is and not this much work to do. |
New lunch room coming for ASK students
By Mrika Mustafa
The American School of Kosova is building a new lunch room in two former classrooms. Duplex Club Prishtina serves as the school cafeteria, but administrators want a school-owned lunchroom. Many changes are being made, and the lunchroom will be completely different. They promise a better accommodation for students. There is going to be a new menu, new seats — 130 to 140, enough for every student in school — new tables , refrigerators and a new kitchen. Mr. Dardan, who is in charge of the lunchroom, is making it as good as he can. He says ‘’ the new lunchroom is going to be much better and serve the students in a better way.” He’s excited about the project, he said. “We’ve been planning and wanting the school to have its own lunchroom, because as we know Duplex was just for rent,” he said. As the school believes, the lunchroom is going to be ready in about one month. Renovators are working as hard as they can, but only after school so they don’t disturb classes. The lunchroom is going to be located in the elementary school. They took the 2nd and 3rd grade classrooms and removed the wall between them to form the new lunchroom. Elementary and high school students will all use this lunchroom. |
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Search for international job lands teacher in Kosova
By Katja Basinkevich
The Freerunner interviewed one of the school's new teachers, Ms. Alexa Hines, who teaches freshman and sophomore English. Reporter: Where are you from? We know that you are from Iowa, but where exactly? Ms. Alexa: I am from Cedar Rapids and that’s in Iowa. Reporter: Which university did you go to? Ms. Alexa: I went to Truman State University. That is in Missouri. Reporter: What did you do before becoming an English teacher? Ms. Alexa: I worked at a learning center in Cedar Rapids as a director for a tutoring program for underprivileged children called EduCare. Reporter: What brought you to Kosovo? Ms. Alexa: I was trying to get overseas for about two years now. I did my student teaching in Germany. I was looking through the schools before finding a job in Europe, and I was very happy when I ended up getting an interview here. This school seemed to be the best of the ones that hired English teachers. Reporter: What were your first impressions of Kosovo and the American School of Kosova? Ms. Alexa: It is very different from home, definitely, but everyone is extremely welcoming, which I was very happily surprised to find. Reporter: Did you know very much about Kosovo when you got the job? Ms Alexa: Honestly, I did not know as much as I wish I would have. I knew a little bit about the history and that it is a new country. It was definitely a mysterious experience. Reporter: What was your favorite subject when you were a student in high school and what did you like about it? Ms. Alexa: My favorite subject was English. I love reading and creative writing. So, I liked that subject because I got to do the things I love to do. Reporter: Did you always want to become an English teacher? Ms Alexa: No. I really loved English but I also love history and until my senior year I thought that I would become an archaeologist. |
Reporter: What are your interests outside of school?
Ms Alexa: I really like to read whenever I get a chance. I also love to travel, so I hope to do that when I get settled in here. Reporter: When is your birthday? Ms Alexa: My birthday is on April 5 and I was born in 1987. Reporter: Are you married? Ms Alexa: No, I am not married. Reporter: Is there anything else that the students at ASK should know about you? Ms Alexa: That’s the hardest question so far, I think. Well, everyone who knows me, knows that I am an animal person. |
Green club makes recycling easier at ASK
By Monika Rodiqi
The ASK Goes Green club has now provided us with one more opportunity to help the environment – recycling bins. The recycling bins, which are in the front hall now, will be distributed throughout the school by the end of next week, and the profits will go to humanitarian causes. The bins are for plastic, aluminum and paper. |
A man on a bicycle will take the plastic and aluminum to the recycling center. The profit will go to his family.
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The paper, on the other hand, will be sent to the recycling center by the school and the profit will go to The Ideas Partnership, an NGO that, among other activities, helps children in need.
The ASK Goes Green club is overseen by Ms. Kristin Goddard, Ms. Allison Peterson, Ms. Natalie Kainz and Mr. Ben Timberlake. It will have its first meeting next week, where students can join. Besides the recycling bins, there will also be a litter pick-up around Prishtina after the establishment of the club. |