“I will tell them American people are good,” she said.

Sadaf had to go through many educational “hoops” to earn an ambassador’s spot. She was one of 600 students who originally applied. Already an achiever, she still sets her aim high. She is considering a profession in the medical field.

A look of concern crosses her face as she speaks of the need for cardiac surgeons. “What about the people who have heart attacks and there’s no doctor available? They could die!” she said.

Today6-12 Sadaf is in Washington, D.C., where she’ll spend one week before going home. She’ll share her experiences with other foreign exchange students and talk to senators again. After she’s home, she’ll work with the next group of students and offer them tips about traveling in America.

One experience she’ll share is about dogs. Sadaf has a cat back home and Ruth has one named Oscar. But, Sadaf has never been around dogs and Ruth has two — Maggie Mae, an excitable Labrador, and Sister Lily, a laid-back Weimaraner.

“I have a new passion for dogs. Oscar is a cute cat and I love him, too. I have no clue how to live without them now,” she said. “Animals do have an impact. Pets are nice and are very loyal.”

Sadaf extended her heartfelt thanks to her parents, who said “yes”; to Ruth, “who is a very nice person” and to America.

“If my parents hadn’t sacrificed and if Ruth hadn’t accepted, I wouldn’t be here,” she said.

Cindy Toopes can be reached at (641) 683-5376 or via e-mail at cindy@ottumwacourier.com.