In its first year, the College of Charleston’s English Language Institute (ELI) has helped more than two-dozen international students gain proficiency in the English language. On July 18, 2012, nine students from Taiwan’s National Kaohsiung Normal University (NKNU) completed the first “language study abroad” experience during the institute’s summer English language and culture seminar. The College’s School of Education, Health, and Human Performance has a bi-lateral agreement with NKNU.
The ELI provides English language classes for international students who have basic English proficiency but not at the level necessary to be successful in an American university setting. Some of the students, who have come from 10 countries, will stay at the College of Charleston to earn their bachelor’s degree, but others will return to their country or are Charleston community members looking to improve their language skills. The program offers intensive study in reading, vocabulary, writing, grammar, listening, speaking and pronunciation as well as academic skills and intercultural awareness. The goal is to prepare students for attending an American university.
The English Language and Culture Summer Seminar is three and a half weeks (75 hours) of English language study. Some classes focus on specific language skills while other courses and excursions are based on historical and cultural themes of Charleston and the U.S.
“The ELI provides an incredible service for both the Charleston community and for international students interested in studying at the College of Charleston,” says Nancy Rivera, director of the ELI. “The type of program we offer and the fact that we are a part of an accredited university are both factors that give the ELI great potential for attracting students. I’m excited to see the program continue to grow.”
The next eight-week Intensive English Program is scheduled to begin on August 20, 2012. More information.
For more information, contact Nancy Rivera at riveranl@cofc.edu.
