Adult students who studied English as a second language alongside Oksana Goldenstein at the Blaine Learning Lab were happy to see her finding success as a new business owner in downtown Minneapolis.

Goldenstein, originally from Russia, but now living in Coon Rapids, opened Crepes Up Delicious three months ago in the Canadian Pacific Building.

Current ESL students’ trip downtown Nov. 23 served a dual purpose, according to North Metro Adult Basic Education instructor Polina Huffman. Not only did she hope students would be inspired by Goldenstein’s story, but she intended for them to learn how to use public transportation on the bus ride to and from Minneapolis.

Many students had never ridden the bus before. Some had never been downtown.

So far this year, the Blaine Learning Lab has served students from 59 countries who speak 40 different languages, according to Molly Stewart, program supervisor at the site.