Student Experiences
//= $pageBlurb ?>-
Updated: September 05, 2023
The Power of English Proficiency: Insights from Marifer’s Journey to Success in the U.S.
In this insightful session, we explored the incredible journey of Marifer, an international student from Panama who achieved two degrees and embarked on a PhD in Human-Centered Design at Florida Institute of Technology. Marifer's story is a testament to empowerment and the idea that we have the ability to shape our destinies. It also highlights the impact of knowledge and perseverance. Language proficiency, especially English, plays a pivotal role for international students. Marifer shared her experience with the TOEFL test, and her preparation strategies, use of resources, and study habits shed light on the importance of getting ready for language assessments. Plus TOEFL offers resources and sessions that can help guide individuals on their paths to success, check this blog for further information.
Read more -
Updated: August 12, 2023
Join us on Facebook Live! The Power of English Proficiency: Marifer’s Success at University and Beyond in the U.S.
Imagine a world where the power is in your hands, your dreams know no limits, and the key to unlocking endless possibilities lies in the realm of the English language.
Read more -
Updated: July 19, 2023
Meet Francisca E. Del Pino, studying at The English Language Institute at the University of Florida
“Along with my research I stumbled upon the University of Florida — it’s a Top 5 public university and has beautiful architecture and an overwhelming college pride,” says Francisca E. Del Pino from Chile. “The minute I started learning about it was the minute I decided I would try and go there.”
Read more -
Updated: July 14, 2023
Meet Ryan Evans from England, a business major at St. Ambrose University
Studying in the USA is a great, once-in-a-lifetime experience that can help shape you into the person that you want to be,” says Ryan Evans from England, who is a senior Business Sales and Marketing major at St. Ambrose University. “Although it may be scary, International Student Services are there to help, and once you settle in you'll have no issues making friends and enjoying your time.
Read more -
Updated: July 10, 2023
WATCH THE VIDEO! Planning for International Study: Understanding the U.S. Education System
Are you considering studying abroad but unsure about how to plan for it? Gain valuable insights into the U.S. education system and learn from the experiences of an international student and an expert in the field. In this video, you will hear from Chanhyuk "Ken" Park, an international student from Seoul, South Korea, currently studying Biochemical Engineering at Skagit Valley College, and Darren Grosch, the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at Los Angeles City College (LACC).
Read more -
Updated: June 27, 2023
Remarkable Chinese Learning Progress: A Brazilian Project Manager & TutorABC
It is always challenging to learn a new language, especially for adults. Amid a busy life, adapting to another language is not easy. Felipe, a 41-year-old project manager from Brazil who has been in Taiwan for 13 years, says his advice for other foreigners who want to learn Chinese is to be patient — and use TutorABC.
Read more -
Updated: June 15, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Isra H. of Oman
Far away from her home in Oman, international student Isra H. found a second family at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn). She was immersed in Penn’s ELP University Connection program (UniConn) to prepare for the U.S. university application process. Throughout her UniConn sessions, Isra continued to challenge herself with guidance from her advisors and support from fellow students and had the experience of a lifetime.
Read more -
Updated: June 09, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Shenglan J. of China
Shenglan J. of China was impressed with the small class sizes and inspiring professors at the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Program (ELP) in Philadelphia. She loved the beautiful campus and welcoming environment, and thoroughly enjoyed the activities organized by the student center. The ELP helped prepare Shenglan for her future career while immersing her in different cultures, new friends, and the Philadelphia experience.
Read more -
Updated: June 08, 2023
International Triple-Major Thrives at Lycoming College
International student Harshita Bandhu from Mauritius — a small island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa — journeyed to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to attend Lycoming College. Now in her final semester, this triple major will earn her bachelor’s degree in mathematics, actuarial science, and quantitative economics.
Read more -
Updated: June 08, 2023
How Counselors Can Help International Families Prepare for University
Get help navigating the university application process by working with a counselor. Work with a counselor within your child’s school or look to a counselor or placement consultant from a different organization. Rely on professional assistance to make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible!
Read more -
Updated: June 01, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Yasuhito N. of Japan
For Yasuhito N. of Japan, the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Program (ELP) helped him improve his English skills, learn about collaboration and problem-solving, and experience a delicious variety of international cuisine. After returning to his home country to work, he discovered how unexpectedly helpful the skills he learned in ELP were.
Read more -
Updated: May 25, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Odelia O. of France/Israel
Attending the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Program (ELP) exceeded all expectations for Odelia O. of France/Israel. It exposed her to new adventures and helped her discover that she can “always find at least one thing in common with every person I get to meet.” Odelia’s experience at ELP inspired her to apply for a 4-year degree and continue taking her English to the highest degree of fluency.
Read more -
Updated: May 21, 2023
Perspectives of a Parent and Student
International student Adarsh Pillai and his father Manosh shared a common dream: to someday see Adarsh working at a major accounting firm. The small campus community, supportive staff, and welcoming environment at the University of Northern Iowa proved to be the perfect place for Adarsh, a quiet and somewhat shy student, to grow into his future.
Read more -
Updated: May 21, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Ammar Babateen of Saudi Arabia
After finishing high school, Ammar Babateen of Saudi Arabia planned a gap year while applying to U.S. colleges. During that time, he participated in the University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Program (ELP) and found unexpected benefits beyond performing better on his college applications. “It was a whole life experience full of personal enrichment, friend-making, and a lot of exploring opportunities,” said Ammar.
Read more -
Updated: May 05, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Lidia M. from Russia
University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Programs (ELP) helped international student Lidia M. from Russia improve her English skills and much more. She gained acceptance to a 4-year U.S. university, made a lot of friends, and learned how to study hard and be disciplined. Lidia loved the beauty of Philadelphia, its four seasons, and easy access to city attractions.
Read more -
Updated: May 02, 2023
Studying English at Framingham State University in Massachusetts
Mireia (Mimi) Puig Marti from Barcelona, Spain, is attending the English Language Programs at Framingham State University (FSU) in Massachusetts. She earned a bachelor’s degree in law before coming to the U.S. and chose FSU because of its focus on teaching English to non-native speakers. “English is essential for my professional future, and it will open many doors,” said Mimi.
Read more -
Updated: May 02, 2023
Earning a Master’s at the University of Northern Iowa
For her master’s degree, Elizabeth Baby from India chose the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) mainly because of its student affairs program. In terms of navigating a study abroad experience, she encourages other international students to ask for assistance when they need it. “There are resources and people out there to help you,” she says.
Read more -
Updated: May 02, 2023
Studying Sports Nutrition at Santa Rosa Junior College
Haruna Matsuoka from Japan is a 2nd-year student studying sports nutrition (Kinesiology: Sports Medicine Preparation) at Santa Rosa Junior College in California. Her goal is to transfer to a 4-year university to finish her bachelor’s degree. In the meantime, she’s enjoying her classes and exploring beautiful Sonoma County.
Read more -
Updated: April 28, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Patcharanon B. from Thailand
Patcharanon (Gib) B. of Thailand loved the small sizes, communicative teachers, and student participation at University of Pennsylvania’s English Language Program (ELP). Through the ELP’s University Connection program, she had a great advisor who helped with her statements of purpose, contributing to her acceptance at multiple law schools. Patcharanon also loved expanding her English vocabulary and learning American idioms.
Read more -
Updated: April 21, 2023
University of Pennsylvania ELP Profile: Mario D. from Colombia
Mario D. from Colombia improved his English through University of Pennsylvania’s English language programs (ELP). After attending ELP’s Intensive Program, Mario gained confidence in his language skills, and he went on to complete his Master’s degree in business.
Read more