By: Kaci King
10/28/2004

The Republic of Uzbekistan shares a border with Afghanistan. This flat and intensely irrigated country has struggled with a dependence on agriculture and continues to endure an intense fight against terrorism.

For most students it is just another name on a global map. But for freshman Sabina Muratova, Uzbekistan is the place she calls home.

Muratova moved to the United States about two months ago and briefly attended a university in Washington, D.C.

After receiving a one year full scholarship, financed through an organization called Educational Cultural Affairs, she decided to continue her studies at Friends University. Muratova is currently a special education major and is excited about receiving an education in the States.

“It is a great opportunity to be able to obtain an American education,” Muratova said. “The studies in the States are more advanced and allow you to have better opportunities.”

One goal Muratova has set includes being able to write grants for disabled children in her country. This passion comes from her volunteer work in youth centers in Uzbekistan.

“I used to volunteer at the youth education center in my country. I was tremendously impressed by the children there. I felt they should have a chance at a better life, so I plan to go back home and write grants for them so they can have choices like me,” Muratova said.

One barrier Muratova has experienced while being in the United States is the English language. Although she is able to speak and comprehend the language, she wants to be able to do so more fluently. Muratova already speaks Russian, Kyrgyz, Uzbek and French.

“After the collapse of the Soviet Union, our society became very diverse,” she said. “It is common to speak a lot of languages. Citizens primarily speak Russian in my country because 50 percent of the schools conduct classes in this language.”

Linda Hohler and her husband have become Muratova’s adopted family while she is in the States. Even though she lives in Green Hall, the Hohler family has opened the doors of their household to Muratova.

“She is such a unique young lady,” Hohler said. “Sabina is excited about everything and has a way of brightening up the whole place. Everyone who has met her has been impressed with her. She is very outgoing.”

Muratova has had to make a number of adjustments while living in the United States. She had to get used to the food here as well as the people. Muratova is amazed by how complacent Americans have become with their freedoms.

“Here it is absolute freedom,” Muratova said. “You can state your opinion and your point of views so openly. You even have the right to exercise political and personal thoughts. This is a freedom people should not take for granted.”

Muratova appreciates the experience she is getting at Friends. She is enjoying the campus as well as the administration.

“I really like the campus here,” Muratova said. “I love the area I live in. I’m glad to have the chance to interact with wonderful students and professionals. Living in Kansas is going to change my life forever.”