Language is the key to communication and understanding. For many international students, the language barrier can often feel insurmountable. The ability to communicate effectively in English is not only essential for daily life but also for academic success.
As an international student myself, with English as my second language, I started learning English through the public education system in my home country. I've experienced difficulties in academia, communication, and socialization. From both my cohorts and my own experiences, I've noticed that a lack of confidence creates a hidden barrier that hinders communication and social connections between native and non-native speakers. Additionally, academic presentations, reading, and writing outside of my comfort zone have added extra pressure when completing coursework and presentations.
Time is incredibly valuable during the term, and I've learned that targeted improvement can be highly effective. Over time, international students with similar experiences and I have acquired the skills to overcome these challenges. Coincidentally, I came across friends with positive experiences of language support at the Centre for Academic English (CfAE) at the College.
In my role as a sabbatical officer, I had the opportunity to communicate further with CfAE, and their ideas and services align well with my needs. I believe that their services would be beneficial to anyone wishing to improve their academic English. Over the years, CfAE has received numerous positive comments from both students and staff members:
"I would like to express my gratitude to you and your colleagues for the wonderful job you do. It makes a real difference (PhD supervisor).
Absolutely fantastic - an inspiring, refreshing, motivating, and reassuring course.
This is an important course for anyone in science (Postdoctoral researcher/PhD student)
CfAE provides free services, including both group sessions and 1-1 drop-in sessions for improving your speaking & listening or academic writing.
In group sessions, you will be able to:
- Enhance your networking strategies.
- Collaborate with friends/peers to work on writing and practice presentations.
- Seek feedback from each other and/or a CfAE coach on your writing.
- Work with your group on joint assessments.
In 1-1 sessions, you can:
- Ask a CfAE coach for general guidance on how to improve.
- Determine which resources would be most beneficial for you.
- Share a short sample of your work (e.g., assessed coursework, presentations, or viva preparation) if you feel it would benefit the discussion.
CfAE is developing a new walk-in writing lab from 1pm to 6pm every Wednesday during term time, which provides group joint sessions, 1-1 live advice, and resources for self-study.
Please don't hesitate to contact either me or CfAE with any queries or suggestions. We are also working on improving the structure, content, and format of services, and we would greatly appreciate your opinions regarding your needs and advice on improving your English. Click here to complete a brief 2-3 minute survey.