English School in the USA

Dealing With Culture Shock While Studying In An English School In The USA

Paul Huber

When you decide to study at an English School in the USA, it is not always easy to adapt to a new culture, and you may suffer culture shock. However, this phenomenon is not as worst as it may seem. Many measures can help you prevent or overcome it quickly. Climate, language, financial situation, physical or mental health, among other things are factors that can contribute to making this adaptation even more difficult. You must be aware that when you study English in an ESL School in the USA, customs and traditions are very opposite or somewhat contrasting from your own culture. It is expected that this causes a feeling of frustration and depression. If this happens, you must face your goals and purpose as to why you have decided to study abroad and evaluate whether you want to continue.

Studying in an English School in the USA can be a big dream for many people as this is one of the best methods to improve your English communication skills and learn a different culture. But often, in the excitement of traveling to a different location, people end up not getting ready enough for a possible culture shock, or sometimes they don’t even know it exists. But yes, it does exist and is very common to countries that have significant cultural differences compared to your country of origin. So in this post, you are going to know more about the culture shock that you may experience in an ESL School in the USA, how to avoid it, ensuring you are prepared to make a meaningful study.

Culture Shock Defined

Culture shock is a mixture of sensations and feelings that a person can experience when he comes across a different culture that he is used to living with. It becomes noticeable when there are differences in people’s daily routines. This includes the language, traditions and customs and the way of life. This shock can cause surprise and uncertainty, generating some anxiety. It varies significantly in intensity, as some people may find it easier to adapt to new situations or even better prepared for it. It is more common to happen at the beginning of your study in an English School in the USA and, during the stay, the new environment becomes more familiar.

ESL School in the USA

Why does culture shock may happen when you study at an English School in the USA?

Culture shock generally occurs when you lose enthusiasm about staying abroad. However, you can get used to these things to lead a new life in the best possible way as you study in an English School in the USA. The time it takes to overcome a culture shock can be very different. When you already arrived in an English School in the USA, it is common that you can see differences. It takes time to understand the culture and get used to it. And the more different the country’s culture and the less prepared you are, the harder it can be. However, culture shock is not bad. When overcome, it is beneficial in your personal development.

What can be done against a culture shock?

There are some aspects that you can take into account to avoid or minimize culture shock. You don’t need to worry. You will gradually adapt and integrate the culture. This is part of your precious experiences in studying in an ESL School in the USA. Some of the most common recommendations are:

  • Do research about the country: Knowing where you are going is one of the best ways to minimize culture shock. Reading the country’s history, its politics and language are ways to get tourists closer to the place. It is cool to dream about those beautiful photos and perfect landscapes seen on Instagram. However, be sure to search a little beyond what you see there. Social networks allow you to get closer to the place and will give you ideas or information about the country.
  • Keep an open mind: Accepting differences or new aspects of culture is the most crucial step. It is not advisable to continually compare how things are in your own country; in fact, this can be one of the big mistakes. Also, a negative attitude can not help at all. When studying in an English School in the USA, make sure to focus on enjoying diversity.
  • Try new things: Do not intend to continue with the habits you had. Try new flavors, have contact with the culture and local people. Immerse yourself into the culture around you.
  • Find your hobby: Whether it is a sport, dance or yoga, the important thing is that you like it. This will also help you increase your social network. People who can be your potential friends will open doors for you.
  • Communicate with your friends and relatives: Something as simple as signing up on Facebook, Twitter, or sending emails. Reading your local newspapers online can help you relax. Also, thanks to Skype, you can talk and even see your friends and relatives. This will allow you to have a quality conversation with your family and friends. Just don’t forget those postcards because they are still useful.
  • Find joy in small things: Do not only give importance to differences but also look at the details that make a country unique — kindness, hospitality, and how people establish social relationships. If you look at the bright side of things, for sure, this will attract your attention.

Extra Tip

The fewer worries you have during your study and stay in an ESL School in the USA, the better. Having a complete preparation and an open mind helps you to manage when you encounter a possible culture shock. Make sure to keep in mind these six points and let yourself enjoy your study in an English School in the USA.

Learning Idioms in Context: Lily's Belief in Life

Learning Idioms in Context: Lily’s Belief in Life

Paul Huber

Here is a story about a young lady who is diligent and friendly. You’ll find idiom definitions, example sentences, conversations, and a short quiz after reading the story.

Lily is a lady who lives in a small town near the city. She loves to walk every weekend together with her brown puppy. During her summer vacation, she makes sure to relax to compensate for the busy moments in her school days. For her, living near the city is a blessing in disguise. In her first few months, she wasn’t able to appreciate the scarcity of establishments around. But now, she enjoys the simplicity and calmness of the neighborhood. She now sees the significance of some situations that seem terrible at first, but good things happen after.

Lily believes that contentment is one of the most useful virtues in life. “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” Lily advised. She is delighted with what she has right now. Moreover, she also believes that a little learning is a dangerous thing. “People who don’t understand something fully are dangerous,” she said. She always reiterates the significance of wisdom as a tool for success. She is also a fan of real justice and equality. “You can’t judge a book by its cover,” she said. A person may look bad, but you should observe and know him before judging. 

Lily stressed that one of the most important virtues in life is a sacrifice. “You can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs,” she suggested. It is hard to achieve goals in life without doing your best. Sometimes, unpleasant things happen, but life must go on. What doesn’t kill you makes you wiser and stronger. Finally, make sure to give your best at all times. At any rate, that’s how to be happy and successful in life according to Lily.

A blessing in disguise

Meaning
  • a favorable situation or a result that seemed terrible at first, but it turns out to be an advantage or a fortune
Example Sentences

Adam’s early resignation from his work was a blessing in disguise because he got plenty of rest and a break from his toxic work life. 

Amanda’s failure in her exams was a blessing in disguise for she realized that she was not happy anymore with her bachelor’s degree and decided to change it to the degree she loves.

A: What makes you blessed now these days?

B: When Alana broke up with me, I was so distressed for a few months. But now, I think the breakup is a blessing in disguise because no one stops me when I want to stay late with my friends on weekends.

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush

Meaning
  • what you have is more precious or valuable than what you can get later, so it is best to be contented and happy with what you possess right now no matter how small it is
Example Sentences

Layla might have got a better offer if she had waited for some more time, but she decided to take the one she had. After all, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

People may not like their job, but they should not quit just because they have the belief of finding a better one. They may not realize a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. 

A: You have been working in the company for quite a long time. What’s your secret?

B: Our company is already established. We have excellent benefits here that other companies cannot offer to their employees. You know, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

A little learning/knowledge is a dangerous thing

Meaning
  • this applies to people who don’t understand something or those who know a few are dangerous, and they are prone to errors
Example Sentences

Tom came home with some bruises that he got when playing in the mud. Just because his best friend jumps and runs in the dirt, it doesn’t mean that he will not get wounded. This goes to show that a little learning/knowledge is a dangerous thing.

Sam read about how to take care of himself when he has a high fever. He thought he doesn’t need a doctor. With this, he got worse and stayed in the hospital for a few days. This turned out that a little learning/knowledge is a dangerous thing. 

A: Are you now ready for the thesis defense this Friday?

B: No, I have to go over my research notes and study possible inquiries so that I can have organized thoughts, and my presentation will run smoothly. I have to be ready because I know that a little learning/knowledge is a dangerous thing.

You can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs

Meaning
  • give up something or to take much effort to get something in return or something desirable
Example Sentences

Helen is trying to do her best for her to get the university scholarship. She is not going out with her friends and watching movies. She has realized that she can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs. 

I have been studying English, and it’s hard work. However, I am hopeful that I can improve soon as it is true that I can’t make an omelet without breaking some eggs.

A: How long have you been preparing for the 5k Marathon competition?

B: It has been two months, and I am not giving up. I can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs. I know, I can do it.

You can’t judge a book by its cover 

Meaning
  • don’t just look at the value of something by its appearance and this may sound bad in the outside appearance, but it’s good inside
Example Sentences

One of the applicants did not look very smart, but you can’t judge a book by its cover.

The restaurant looked so attractive from outside, but the meals were so horrible. We made a mistake. It’s really true that you can’t judge a book by its cover.

A: John has married Ella, one of the smartest students in his batch. She has a brown complexion and small. 

B: I think John has made a wise decision. He is happy now. He believes that you can’t judge a book by its cover.

Quiz

  1. A major problem in life that you may encounter can turn out to be _________________. Embrace it and be positive.
  2. Be grateful for what you have accomplished. Be happy! You can never be promoted in your workplace for several years but _________________.  
  3. Human resource professionals scrutinize each applicant and they practice the belief that ____________________. So they hire based on skills and attitude not on appearance.
  4. Do not start a business without researching your market and efficiently planning because ______________ as you might face difficulties and issues that lead to failure.
  5. My best friend and I hope to achieve outstanding scores this summer class. We plan to decrease our screen time though this will make us upset. We believe that _____________________.

Learn more idiomatic expressions using short stories, sentences, and quizzes. It is essential to learn them in context as they are never easy to understand. Happy learning!

Study English in the USA

Study English in the USA

Paul Huber

Studying English in the U.S. has been a dream to many. Thousands of students have been applying annually to be admitted to colleges and universities. While most students want to study English in the USA, others want to experience the remarkable American life. As a student wherein English is not your native language, it is never easy to improve your English communication skills without a skilled English teacher with an effective program. As you read this article, you may not be certain as to how you can improve your English efficiently. It is a fact that many students became successful in improving their English communication skills after studying abroad so this article will guide you in deciding to start planning your study in the U.S. in the next coming years and be one of those successful students.

The first step is to think of the requirements when applying for a student visa. This means that you need to check the Bureau of Consular Affairs website or contact them directly. With this, the most critical requirement for studying in the U.S. is acing your student visa interview as the interview is in English. Moreover, an excellent TOEFL or IELTS score also matters as this will give you more opportunity to choose different universities. You should remember that each college or university has different requirements for English proficiency. With this, you should be able to improve your English more extensively.

A good English communication skill is a stepping stone for you to be accepted to a good university in the U.S. You will be in a constant class discussion where explaining and debating is just a routine. Class participation is one of the key performance factors in evaluating your grades. While others may opt to select an easy program, it is always suggested that you choose the intensive program. You will have more benefits in the future, especially when advancing your career in the workplace.

Different Types of English Language Programs in Colleges and Universities

Study English in California

Intensive English Program

This is a challenging program that is usually taken at the beginning of the semester. It is useful for professionals and students preparing for university or business programs. This program emphasizes fluency and accuracy. Students from various countries have attended this program, and it is based on the integrated-skills approach in listening, speaking, reading, writing. A student must have 18 hours a week intensive English program completed to qualify for a student visa.

Highlights

  • Live on campus
  • Full access to the college or university library and other facilities
  • Practice with other students
  • Take some university courses when you have an advanced level of English
  • Work up to 20 hours weekly if you hold an F-1 visa

The Intensive English program is not always a part of a college or university degree program. With this, it is essential that you understand the reality that you cannot guarantee to receive academic credit. When you are admitted to an ESL School, this doesn’t mean that you can be automatically accepted as a student in a college or university. If you plan to study in a university course, make sure that you do your research first. Colleges and universities have different admission requirements and policies. Moreover, it is crucial to keep in mind the cost of a community college, public colleges, and universities because they have lower tuition fees than private ones.

Proprietary English Language Program

While students usually initiate the interest to study English in the USA, there are private ESL schools that cater assistance to students who plan to enter the nearest college or university. The students are already residing near the ESL school and can feel the convenience in completing the program. As a result, this can be very rewarding. The school can prepare students to college and universities’ admission successfully. On the other hand, it is important to note that there are only a few ESL schools that offer housing or arrange home-stays.

Highlights

  • If you are an advanced-level student, you may take one or two courses in the nearest colleges or universities.
  • You can take a few vacation ESL classes in which you learn English while you travel to scenic spots places.
  • You can study flexibly in a familial environment with a state of the art facilities.
Study English in Los Angeles

Finding The Best Program

While the plan to study English in the USA is one of the best decisions you can make, you must do serious research before choosing an ESL school. Read about the courses and programs they offer, their accreditation, and location. You contact the ESL school directly to ask some questions related to your study. Moreover, requesting assistance to your local class adviser can also give you a guarantee that you are identifying the school that is best for you. This process of selecting the school is rewarding as you will know more about the school that will be part of your life. Hence, make sure to choose carefully.

When choosing a program, make sure to consider below areas as they have a significant impact on your success in your plan to study English in the USA.

  • The kind of program you want to attend
  • The cost of the program and other expenses
  • The location you want to go
  • The school’s class size and extracurricular activities
  • The school’s setting, teachers, accommodations and services
  • The school’s accreditation and it’s policy on enrolling in a nearby university

The above list is mostly reflected in a school’s catalog but you must still verify each area to guarantee their authenticity. Hence, doing proper research, asking academic experts in this area, and practicing your English communication skills are equally important in making yourself ready to study English in the USA.

Are you still undecided on which English program you want to enroll? Please contact us below and feel free to fill out the form with any questions you may have about your future English study in the USA.

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Student Visa

How To Pass Your Student Visa Interview

Paul Huber

One of the best milestones that a university or a high school student could reach is the opportunity to study in the U.S. To realize this, you must have been accepted at an institute certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and have paid the SEVIS I-901 fee. When completed, you can start to process your application in getting your F-1 Visa, J-1 Visa, or M-1 Visa, as appropriate, in an embassy or consulate of the United States. The application process is not easy. The thought of your F-1 Visa interview might be a bit stressful as you will not just prepare yourself to be accepted in your desired university in the United States, you need to convince the U.S. Government during your interview for them to grant you a student visa.

The interviewer will be a consular officer or a state representative. They will ask questions and make sure to prepare. It can be very intimidating, especially if English is not your native language, but preparation is the key. Knowing some possible questions and preparing their answers are some of the keys to ace the student visa interview. With this, it is essential to have ample time to do your research and list down those questions and their answers. The internet offers you a list of tips about student visa interview. Compile, then study and practice these tips beforehand. The winning formula is similar to any important interview: prepare, be positive, and be yourself!

F-1 Visa

Categories That You Need To Prepare For Your Student Visa Interview

Study plan and university choice

The interviewer will ask you about your plan and goals in studying in the U.S.A. While questions are almost similar to questions being asked in your local university application essays and interviews, you need to prepare your answers. The interviewer wants to know the reason for pursuing your higher education in the U.S. instead of your home country or a different country. Make sure to study the background of the university you have chosen. They may also ask questions about other universities you applied, which schools were you accepted, and which schools you got rejected. These questions will help your interviewer decide your capacity to study and survive in the U.S.

Academic ability and financial statement

Another factor that needs to be reviewed is your academic and financial capacity. Bring with you a copy of your test scores, and last academic accomplishment for evaluation. The interviewer needs to identify that you are a genuine student aspirant that is able not just to succeed in studying in the U.S. but to excel as a student.  On the other hand, your academic qualification is not enough as your financial statement should be evaluated. You should bring proof that you have enough funds to support your stay and study in the U.S. A financial plan is needed, which includes your food, housing, health insurance, tuition, and transportation. Moreover, the interviewer will ask your relationship if you have a sponsor and will request documentation like a bank account and the letter of support. Your F-1 visa will not be granted without proof of your sponsor’s financial statement.

Post-graduation plans

You need to point out the need to return to your country after you finished your studies at university. While you are interested in working in the U.S.A., the student visa does not give you permission to work and live long in the U.S. With this, you should inform the interviewer your intent to go back after graduation, such as showing proof of ties to your country and evidence of your intention to return. The interviewer will verify what is your next plan after your studies and how you intend to use your education, you need to reaffirm your plan to go back to your home country and that you are not permanently staying there. 

Student Visa

Ways To Prepare For The Success Of Your F1-Visa Interview

Gather all documents

It is a must that you gather all documents for evaluation by the consular officer. Preparing all the required documents and organize them in a folder is the most crucial thing you can do to guarantee that your interview will run smoothly. One of which is your acceptance letter as it will serve as proof that you were already admitted by an American institution. Also, submit your financial documents, SEVIS I-901 payment receipt, Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Your financial capacity document is a must. The consular officer will ask for proof that you or your parents have the capacity to pay your expenses. Do not forget to let the interviewer know if you are granted a scholarship or financial assistance. Lastly, be sure to bring your academic records such as copies of your standardized exams, report cards, certificates, and leadership programs you have attended.

Prepare your answers

Your full attention should be focused to the consular officer. Make sure to listen and think carefully, and keep your answers short and concise. You can research online the most frequently asked questions during visa interviews and prepare your answers. While it is necessary to prepare your answers to some of the most common visa interview questions, practicing them should also be part of your schedule. It is a great idea to have a time practicing those questions and answers. Go and sit in a quiet room, imagining that you are in an actual interview. Say your answers aloud and repeat this drill 2-4 times until you have mastered all the answers.

Enhance your English communication skills

Enhancing your English is a good option as this will also assist you to have a smooth flow of your study in the U.S. This will also help you communicate well with the consular officer. There are many ways you can practice, such as watching American TV shows, listening to your favorite songs, reading English books, and many more. While the interview questions vary by individual depending on background, it is a good way to prepare when you practice your answers. This will add up to your confidence. Get your guide questions and practice your answers. This will help you organize your thoughts and prepare you for what you may be asked. If English is not your native language, you should practice with a friend or family member.

Stay calm and be positive

Be confident, stay calm, and smile. While projecting a confident image is a must, you should always think positive and remain calm. This is the most important thing to remember during your F-1 visa interview. This ensures a smooth flow of your student visa interview. Moreover, being well prepared is equally important. With this, be sure you have all the required documents and receipts. This ensures that you can focus on answering all the interview questions.

American Student Visa

Sample Questions In An F1- Visa Interview

  • Why do you want to pursue your higher education in the U.S. instead of a local university? 
  • What decides you to choose this school?  
  • What are the results of your exams (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, etc.), your GPA, and your performance as a student?
  • How can you support your financing in housing, transportation, and other major expenses?
  • What are your plans after graduation? Do you plan to stay or return to your home country?

Here are some final tips on your F-1 visa interview

  • Dress professionally.
  • Answer all questions clearly.
  • Tell the truth.
  • Stay calm and confident.
  • Maintain eye contact with the interviewer.
  • Ensure your body posture conveys confidence: Sit with your back straight, shoulders held back, and head high.
  • No slumping nor fidgeting.

By following the above tips, and providing honest answers to all questions, you are directing yourself to a successful interview. For the steps on how to apply for a visa, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs. For other concerns related to studying English in the U.S., don’t hesitate to contact us.