Articles by Duquesne University ESL Students and Sigma Tau Delta Members
WHAT IS ESL?
ESL is an abbreviation of English as a Second Language program. There are many international students who desire to study in class with American students using English. Many ESL students have to take academic classes after graduating from the ESL program. To support each student, each class is smaller than academic classes. Also, teachers give ESL students opportunities to meet American students and hold activities with the Center for Global Engagement in order for ESL students to adapt to life in Pittsburgh. “We equip students with language skills and cultural understanding necessary to meet their educational and professional goals in an American university setting. We collaborate with University partners, providing English language evaluation, consultation and intercultural exchange to foster a diverse international community” (ESL program mission statement). “By 2020, the British Council forecasts that two billion people will be speaking or learning English. English has the potential to generate opportunities, strengthen employment opportunities and expand horizons in today’s interconnected world.” (Medium.com, 2016). In the ESL department at Duquesne, there are many students who come to learn English having different goals.
"I met the teacher; she welcomed me with a smile. Her name is Bethany Iyobe; she has taught ESL for about 25 years, including some time in Japan. She always tries to help students on an individual level and solve problems when teaching students. She also wants them to be energetic and put in effort with their work in class. She said it was pleasant and rewarding for them to succeed in their goals. The meeting with her was short, but it was a good time."
Teachers hold “Conversation Hours” every Wednesday. Duquesne students can meet them and chat, discuss, and create projects together. The experience gives you a feeling of going abroad! ESL students would love to be friends with American students and do language exchange. Also, if you are interested in ESL conversation hour or volunteering at an ESL program, come by College Hall 435.
