He hopes the children from his community will follow his example. Victor recalls that at first, his grandparents were against him going to school, fearing he would forget their traditions.

Victor describes himself as a boy caught between two worlds. He is now preparing for the Baccalaureate exam.

Victor Carole, high school graduate: "My greatest desire was to finish the 12 grades. I gave my word in first grade, and here I am, I've kept it. And I am proud of this achievement. For me, in a way, it's a big deal that I have finished these 12 grades".

He is the only one in his community to have finished high school in Tălmaciu. Soon he will become a father, and his wife, Luminița, would also like to be able to resume her education.

Luminița, Victor's wife: "The role of a Roma woman in our community is to cook, clean the house, take care of the household, and that's about it for us. We will see what the future holds".

Victor Carole: "If your family supports you and gives you the best education, for that I thank my parents and grandparents, you will never forget where you came from".

His former teacher convinced his mother to support him in going to school.

Aura Maria Avram Radu, teacher: "For the school and for the Roma community, this is a historic day. Today's success of Victor's, I believe, will pave the way for other community members".

Larisa, classmate: "He's a very open person. He taught us many new things and words, and all sorts of dances, and his presence has been very beneficial to us".

In the coppersmith Roma community of Tălmaciu, over 200 people live. In this school year, which is nearing its end, over 20 children from the community attended classes at the elementary school.