School Blog

Study English in the USA

August 31, 2019August 31, 2019 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

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.

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.

How To Pass Your Student Visa Interview

August 29, 2019August 29, 2019 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!

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.

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.

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.

Easter Celebration in America

April 19, 2019April 19, 2019 admin

What is Easter? Easter is a popular holiday here in the United States. It is a day to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection. But, many Americans think of Easter as a day for children to look for eggs the Easter bunny hides. This Easter celebration has been part of American culture for many years. The meaning of this holiday continues to change over time.

According to Christian belief, Easter originated back in 30 A.D. This date is when Jesus Christ resurrected three days after his crucifixion. Christian religion considers Jesus Christ its savior. However, over the years, many Americans have taken to celebrating this day. They do not even have to be religious. Nowadays, it is simply part of American tradition. When Americans think of Easter, they automatically think of the Easter bunny and decorating eggs.

Traditional Easter Game

An Easter Egg Hunt is a traditional game played in many American homes. Adults hide eggs around the house, backyard, or at a park. Then, children try to find them. These eggs can be real eggs or plastic ones filled with candy or money.

You might begin to wonder, “how are bunnies and eggs religious?” Historians do not know the exact origin. Nevertheless, historians think this American tradition began when the Germans first immigrated to the United States; bunnies and eggs became a symbol for birth and renewal.

Poly’s Easter Celebration

Students celebrate American Tradition by decorating Easter eggs. — Students Decorating Easter Eggs

Now, enough about the fun facts of Easter. Today, POLY Languages Institute at Pasadena celebrated their own Easter. Our student lounge was filled with fun and colorful decorations of Easter bunnies, eggs, and baskets. It was great to see international students join in our Easter celebration for the first time.

We had stations where some of our students had the opportunity to decorate hard boiled eggs. Teachers showed students how to dye the hard-boiled eggs with multiple colors and put designs on them. The final products looked so beautiful. Therefore, they didn’t even want to eat them! Also, our students participated in the traditional children’s egg hunt. Administrators hid plastic eggs filled with candy throughout the school. The students had a good time with their baskets searching for eggs in each classroom, hallway, and even the front desk!

The students had a fun-filled time. They were able to take a break from their studies to experience an American tradition. Here at POLY, we do not only strive to academically help our students. We also want our students to gain a deeper understanding of American culture and have an overall great experience here in Southern California!

Spring Idioms ESL Students Need to Know

April 8, 2019April 8, 2019 Jenny Park

The start of spring in the United States signifies an increase in daylight. For example, there is warmer weather, flowers blossoming and positive energy. Spring is also the time to reflect, make changes and spring (move) forward. Read some of our favorite spring idioms below.

“spring fever”

Definition: a feeling of excitement because you know springtime is coming and the weather is getting warmer

Example: Jane had a very cold, and lonely winter in New York. Once April began, she was filled with spring fever because the sun was shinning and her family was coming to visit her.

“putting all (my/ your/ their) eggs in one basket”

Definition: Putting all of one’s energy or resources in one thing. This could be seen as negative because you might lose it all if it does not work out.

Example: Joe and Jane went to watch the horse races. Joe bet on one race and put all his money on hopes that a horse called Lucky Charms would place first. Jane bet on a few different outcomes because she did not want to put all her eggs in one basket.

“the grass is/ isn’t (always) greener on the other side”

Definition: when a person looks at someone else’s situation and thinks it is better than their own. However, they do not see the negative aspects of a situation because they only have a partial view.

Example: John is very wealthy and has a very nice family. Joe wishes his life was more like John’s because of it. At the same time, he always reminds himself that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.

“a spring in (my/ your/ their) step”

Definition: when someone walks with a happy and positive energy

Example: Did you see Joe today? Joe is walking with a spring in his step. I heard he won the lottery!

“a stick in the mud”

Definition: a person who may often be seen as boring or unadventurous

Example: Sometimes Karen is such a stick in the mud. She said no when I invited her to go to Los Angeles to explore downtown Los Angeles. She said she didn’t have plans, but refused to go to LA because she would have to sit in the car for longer than twenty minutes.

“black sheep (of the family)”

Definition: a person who stands out as an odd and is sometimes the outcast

Example: John’s relatives value following the rules and they are often very serious. John is very different. He likes to tell jokes and play pranks on his siblings. He gets in trouble often and is seen as the black sheep of the family.

“spring cleaning”

Definition: to thoroughly clean a place, more specifically, during springtime

Example: Jane was tired of her old, dusty furniture. She decided to do some spring cleaning: threw all her old furniture away and bought shiny, new furniture.

If you want to learn more about spring idioms or other common phrases and idioms used in the United States, we would love to have you join our ESL program. A classroom is the best place to learn about American culture, language, conversation strategies, and grammar.