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Category: School interviews

For marketing inSchool interviews the

Interview with Christopher Thebing, Marketing Director of CEL: “Technology is now an important part of the classroom, but online offerings can never replace the study abroad experience.”

CEL San Diego

Christopher Thebing, Marketing Director, CEL

 

Why would a student choose his school?

We have amazing locations with modern school buildings where you will have a great time. In addition, we have very friendly and highly qualified teachers who teach English in small classes (an average of 6-7 students per class), whereas most language schools in the world have a class size of 15 people. This makes a significant difference when learning a language.

We offer a wide range of carefully selected accommodation options for different budgets ranging from homestay over a hostel to shared apartments with pool and jacuzzi.

At CEL you will meet students from all over the world, have a great time with them and make new friends while improving your English.

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student studying abroad?

Studying abroad is totally different from learning a language at home or online. You will immerse yourself in the language, practice your skills much more and reach a completely different level of proficiency than you would at home or online.

In addition, you will get to know a new culture, meet lots of interesting people from all over the world and have a great time learning a language. I still remember my first language course more than 20 years ago: one of the best experiences of my life.

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

After a disastrous year in 2020 because of Corona, our student numbers have risen sharply again in the last few months quickly returning to normal numbers. So I am sure that 2022 will again be a normal year for us. I am sure that the interest to travel and do a language course is still there and the need to make up for a lost year is great.

Technology is now an important part of the classroom, but online offerings can never replace the study abroad experience. We don’t just sell language courses, we sell experiences. In this respect, we will always strive to expand our offerings by listening to the wishes of our students and making sure that we exceed their expectations.

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and what is networking among peers like?

Many clients want to experience more than “just a language course”. We are experiencing increased demand in programs such as English and Surfing, English and Volunteering and our English Plus Experience program where students can practice their English skills in American companies. We also see an increase in our Pathway programs where students combine a language course at CEL with 1 or 2 semesters at a College or University to add a highlight to their CV.

Also for teenagers our Future Global Leader program which offers a project based learning approach to our teenage clients has become very popular.

 

THE SCHOOL


CEL San DiegoName of school

CEL

Country/City

USA/San Diego

 

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

Our school currently has three desirable and accessible locations; just a 10 minute walk to the beach in downtown Santa Monica, in the heart of downtown San Diego, and just a 5 minute walk to the ocean in the vibrant beach community of Pacific Beach, San Diego. We have modern school buildings and offer classes in small groups (average 6-7 students, maximum 12 students/class).

What are the types of courses taught at school?

For adults (over 16 years old)
General English, TOEFL exam preparation, Cambridge exam preparation (FCE, CAE), private lessons, English and surfing, English and volunteering, English Plus Experience, Pathway programmes.

For teenagers (12-18 years old)
General English, English and Surfing, Future Global Leaders.

What are the biggest attractions around the school and in the city in general?

California has a lot to offer: great weather all year round, very open-minded people who will allow you to practice your English a lot, many places of interest such as beaches, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, amusement parks like SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Disneyland, … It’s impossible to get bored in California.

Our schools are located in amazing locations: near the beach or in the heart of Downtown. In any case there are shops and restaurants nearby.

For marketing inSchool interviews the

Interview with Scott Murphy, Expanish Executive: “I believe that cultural immersion and on-site learning remain vitally important for language tourism”.

Expanish

Scott Murphy, Executive, Expanish

 

Why would a student choose his school?

We have amazing facilities in a great location in Barcelona, one block from the metro and 10 minutes from the beach. Our school offers 4 free activities each week for students to practice Spanish outside the classroom, learn about Spanish culture and interact with others in the school. Our staff is friendly and welcoming and can help students with any questions about their program or about life in Spain.

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student studying abroad?

Studying abroad helps students learn more about other cultures, but also more about themselves. It broadens the perspective of the world and opens doors that nothing else can. Studying abroad is a life-changing experience.

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

I believe that cultural immersion and on-site learning remain vitally important for language tourism. Yes, online options are more prevalent after the COVID-19 pandemic, but nothing can replace learning a language abroad while living with a host family and studying with students from around the world. As vaccinations increase around the world, I believe that language tourism will return to a somewhat normal state.

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and what is networking among peers like?

As telecommuting is becoming more and more common, there are more and more students living in Barcelona who need an evening course to learn Spanish. I think this will increase as Barcelona is such a popular city to live in because of its climate, food and culture and many young people will choose it as their home even if they don’t speak Spanish.

 

THE SCHOOL


ExpanishName of school

Expanish

Country/City

Spain/Barcelona

 

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

We are a high quality Spanish language school and we make students feel comfortable and at home. Since we only have 9 classrooms, our staff knows every student’s name and all students receive personalized service. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service.

What are the types of courses taught at school?

Expanish offers both intensive courses for those looking to learn Spanish as quickly as possible and evening classes for those who live and work in Barcelona and are looking for a less intensive option.

What are the biggest attractions around the school and in the city in general?

The school is only 1 block away from the famous Casa Mila (La Pedrera), one of the most emblematic places in the city. We are also only 20 minutes walk from the Sagrada Familia and 10 minutes by bus from the beach.

For Raquel inSchool interviews the

Interview with Cassandra Wong, Head of Marketing and Director of Student Life of New York Language Center: “Learn, participate and grow.”

NYLC 

Cassandra Wong, Head of Marketing and Director of Student Life,
New York Language Center

Why would a student choose your school?

– A Wealth of Experience, a Reputation for Excellence
– Locations Throughout New York City
– Affordable Cost
– Convenient Schedules
– Certificate You’re Proud to Present
– Quality Control

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student to study abroad?

As a student at NYLC, not only will you improve your English in an exciting multi-cultural environment where you feel supported, you experience situations where some of your perceptions are challenged. And this is what we strive to be; a space where you feel at home to learn a common language to keep conversations moving forward. Learn, participate, and grow. Join us, we know you won’t be disappointed!

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

There is still no better way to learn a new language, than by traveling to a city where you can live and breathe it. We learn by making mistakes and overcoming challenges by breaking down the language barrier. Virtual/Remote learning will remain a great option to build the foundation, but actively using the language remains the most effective way to gain confidence speaking a foreign language.

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and how is networking among classmates?

The continued incorporation of remote learning to prepare and help supplement a students study before traveling to New York.

 

THE SCHOOL


NYLCName of School

New York Language Center

Country/City

United States/New York

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

New York Language Center specializes in English Language education. With more than 39 years of experience teaching English as a Second Language, NYLC has gained a reputation for providing high quality education in a friendly and supportive environment, at affordable prices. Students have the flexibility to begin their ESL program on any Monday.

 

Which are the types of courses taught at school?

General English, TOEFL Preparation, Business English.

 

What are the most attractions around the school and in the city in general?

New York City is the Capital of the World, and remains a destination that appeals to artists, entrepreneurs, and free thinkers. With its diverse population, variety of museums and restaurants, landmarks, and unique neighborhoods to explore, it is the destination that has something for everyone, no matter your interests!

For Raquel inSchool interviews the

Interview with Vourneen McGeough, Senior Operations Manager of ELI Schools: “Study abroad affords the learner invaluable life experiences.”

ELI Schools Dublin 

Vourneen McGeough, Senior Operations Manager, ELI Schools Dublin

Why would a student choose your school?

At ELI Schools we take great pride in our students and our schools. Our aim is for our students to experience only the best of what life has to offer in Ireland. Our services and programmes are entirely student focused ensuring that each student who joins us has a clear plan of objectives for the length of time they will study with us to ensure they reach their own learning outcomes. Our aim is to create a sense of community within our schools so that all of our students feel welcome and at home.

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student to study abroad?

Having the opportunity to study abroad affords the learner invaluable life experiences, the ability to develop their soft skills and of course acquire another language leading to a better understanding of a culture on the whole. In todays fast-moving world, all of these elements are essential to broaden the mind, advance educationally and ultimately increase career progression opportunities.

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

With recent developments in technology and increase in remote work opportunities, I see language tourism increasing particularly for young professionals and graduates. As Ireland continues to grow as a European hub for tech giants to set up their EU headquarters, I see language tourism increasing in the years ahead for those wishing to upskill while exploring another country or maybe even while working remotely.

Flexibility, adaptability and “Work – Life” balance are all buzzwords in employment at the moment with employers taking a more person-centered approach to their staff and improving working conditions. As industries grow and boundaries are stretched to allow for more flexibility in the workplace I see both employers and employees seeking out language learning opportunities as a means of either upskilling or incentivizing job opportunities.

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and how is networking among classmates?

Evening courses, High School Placement, University Pathways , short stay 6 – 8 weeks.

 

THE SCHOOL


ELI Schools DublinName of School

ELI Schools Dublin

Country/City

Ireland/Dublin

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

We offer students the choice of two locations to study as we have schools in Dublin City Centre and Drogheda Co. Louth – a culturally rich and vibrant town steeped in history and just 40 minutes from Dublin airport. We hire friendly and enthusiastic people who love what they do and give them the tools and training to deliver the best experiences for our students. Our teachers are all university graduates with recognised teaching qualifications and significant teaching experience both in Ireland and abroad. Our support teams come from a variety of backgrounds and most have travelled so they know it is the simple things that make the difference. We pride ourselves on delivering first class service in every encounter.

Which are the types of courses taught at school?

At ELI we have designed our curriculum and teaching methodology to match the highest international standards, yet we personalise our approach so we can meet the needs of every individual learner.

We offer a range of programs that have the potential to truly transform the lives of our students. For young adults aged 16 to 18, our High School programme offers international students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in some of the best boarding and day schools in the country. ELI School’s General English and Exam courses for adult students allow learners to progress from Intermediate to Advanced, switching their focus to using their language skills to advance their career or for further academic study.

University Pathway Program helps international students to prepare for further study in Ireland with a strong emphasis on the English language and the soft skills required to access Higher Education, with a free university placement service.

 

What are the most attractions around the school and in the city in general?

ELI Dublin is located in Dublin, 2 just minutes from Google & Facebook. In 2019 we opened our second school in the historic town of Drogheda which is just 30 minutes from Dublin airport. ELI Dublin is located along the canal on the southside of the city. Our school is housed in a beautiful Georgian building where we have 16 classrooms and is just a 15 minute walk from Trinity College.

ELI Drogheda is in the bustling town of Drogheda Co. Louth located just 40 minutes north of Dublin airport. Here we also have 16 classes in a beautiful warehouse building on the waterfront and a 5 minute stroll to the town centre.

For Raquel inSchool interviews the

Interview with Patricia Marshall, School Owner and Director of Alpha School of English: “The language impacts all aspects of social life.”

Alpha School of English 

Patricia Marshall, School Owner and Director, Alpha School of English

 

Why would a student choose your school?

Committed to excellence in English language instruction, we strive to exceed our students’ expectations.
We are a small school located in a quiet and English speaking area of Malta. This means we offer you a personal approach and the local area is ideal for students looking for a relaxed and student friendly leisure time. We focus mainly on:

– English courses for families of all ages from 2 years to 60 years upwards!
– English and training courses for professionals including Teachers, Politicians, Business etc.
– Long stay students looking to improve their English fluency for study and work
– Personalised school group programmes looking to mix education, experience and leisure

 

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student to study abroad?

To improve your language skills, experience a different style of teaching, learn about new cultures and perspectives, self develop confidence and the total immersion in language learning experience.

 

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

The importance of language in tourism is growing continually and impacts all aspects of social life. Language tourism and all that it encompasses, is one of the most substantial, energetic industries in the world. Language tourists and the local population, experience a very unique and comprehensive communication aspect.

 

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and how is networking among classmates?

Professional Practices – to improve language skills to be able to grow professionally in the future with employers recognising the importance of the English language at the workplace.

 

THE SCHOOL


Alpha School of EnglishName of School

Alpha School of English

Country/City

Malta/Saint Paul’s Bay

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

Alpha School of English is a well-established EFL school, licensed by Malta’s Ministries of Education and Tourism and approved by the ELT Council. Established in 1991, our English school has welcomed junior and adult students from all over the world to learn English in Malta for over thirty years.

Our extensive range of English courses are run by an international team of dedicated and highly qualified English teachers who are also native speakers of the English language. The modular nature of our course structure means that you can tailor-make your study experience at Alpha School of English and your stay in Malta to suit your specific requirements.

 

 

Which are the types of courses taught at school?

Alpha School of English is open all the year round except for public holidays. Almost all courses begin on a Monday and end on a Friday.

It is possible to begin a course on any Monday during the prescribed period. Minimum course length is 1 week and the maximum length is 50 weeks. One lesson takes 45 minutes. Standard Courses are from 9.00 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. and from 11.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Intensive Courses are from 1.00 p.m. to 2.30 p.m. or 3.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.

All our lessons are held at the main Alpha School of English building in St. Paul’s Bay. However One-to-One courses may be held elsewhere by special arrangement (for example at the student’s place of accommodation). Please note that when there is only one student taking a group course, the number of lessons is reduced by a third.
Courses: Play School (2-7) / kidsclub (8-12) / teen (13-16) /Adult General English courses / Business English / a range of Professional courses for Erasmus+ mobility / one to one / two to one

 

What are the most attractions around the school and in the city in general?

Conveniently located in St Paul’s Bay, a traditional fishing village which is also a popular family resort, the school is also just a short distance away from Malta’s main sandy beaches and places of interest. The relaxed Mediterranean environment in St Paul’s Bay complements the friendly and helpful atmosphere you will find when learning English at Alpha School of English. Our classes are small, so individual attention is guaranteed throughout your course and stay in Malta.

For Raquel inSchool interviews the

Interview with Paul Gallina, Managing Director of Southbourne School of English: “I see a great demand for EFL in the future”

Southbourne School of English 

Paul Gallina, Managing Director, Southbourne School of English

 

Why would a student choose your school?

Established in 1966, a family owned language school. A member of Quality English and IALC, a high quality school. Great nationality mix, experienced teachers and long term host families.

 

 

In your opinion, what are the main benefits for a student to study abroad?

Living with an english family and studying in an english school is the best way to learn a language.

 

 

How do you see the future of language tourism?

I see a great demand for EFL in the future.

 

 

What is a day like for a student at your school and how is networking among classmates?

Long term intensive courses, vacation courses, school groups.

 

THE SCHOOL


Southbourne School of EnglishName of School

Southbourne School of English

Country/City

United Kindom /Bournemouth

 

What are the most significant things the school can offer?

High quality host families within walking distance of the school.

Great nationality mix.

Experienced teachers.

A safe environment to live and great location to live, near the beach and popular high street.

 

 

Which are the types of courses taught at school?

All types of english language for adults and juniors, examinations, vacation programmes, online group courses.

 

What are the most attractions around the school and in the city in general?

Award winning beach 10 minutes from School.

Most popular South coast resort.

Excellent night life in a university town.