Do you want to study English as a second language in America?

Let's talk about how to find a good school.

I've studied Korean as a second language here in Korea and I've found these things to be important:

1. What is the school's curriculum?

What will they try to teach you? Is what they want to teach the same as what you want to learn? How will they try to teach you? Is the way they teach the way you like to learn? Will they use a text book? If they do, you should look at it before you agree to attend the school. Do you want to study with that text book? Make sure that your learning style matches the school you choose and make sure that the school will help you achieve your goals.

2. Who will your teacher be?

If it's possible, try to have a phone conversation with the person who will be your teacher. Do you want to study with that person? Studying English can be fun. Make sure you think you will enjoy studying with the teacher the school will assign you.

3. What are the learning conditions?

Try to find a school with small classes. In a group of 12 or fewer students, you will have more opportunities to interact. Try to find a school with internet access. Internet cafes are often expensive in America, so if you want to e-mail friends and family or study English online when you're not in class, it's best to attend a school that lets you use the internet. Make sure the school is clean, comfortable, and in a safe neighborhood. You may want a school that has self-study resources like a listening lab, videos, or a library. Those are good things, but remember that when you're not in class you can be out exploring America and making friends!

Next: Get free advice from ESL agent! Fill out their survey and they will give you some free advice about schools to consider.


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Created by James Trotta. This page was last revised in January 2004. © 2003-2004. All rights reserved.

ESL go - We make learning and teaching English as a second language and English as a foreign language easier.