How did you choose your summer English program?

I was impressed by the improvement in my brother's English in the IEP at UNL. He really improved his English ability including his usage and pronunciation. Also, my family has a friend in Lincoln. Finally, I wanted to go to a school in an area without a large Spanish-speaking community in order to practise English.

What did you like best?

The teachers were excellent. Also, it was total immersion in English. It was very intense, in a good way. The materials were very useful. The variety of courses captivated my interest.

What was your biggest surprise?

Regarding U.S. life, I was surprised that the bars close at 1:00 a.m.. As per U.S. education, eating on campus in the cafeteria with groups of friends, large and small, has been such fun for me. I would encourage students to live on campus, because it is easier to make friends, and you are less likely to isolate yourself.

How did you handle:
...Language differences?

Maintaining humor is important. In the beginning people would laugh at my mistakes and then correct me. I always appreciate when someone is patient enough to correct me.

...Finances?

I was on a tight budget, but I had enough spending money for dates, movies, etcetera.

How did your English improve?

I made a lot of progress in my one session in the IEP. I was able to pass the TOEFL and enter my graduate program. My use of English, in terms of the skills, improved. My ability to read, write, and discuss in English improved so that I could take graduate classes.

What were your activities?

Playing soccer; watching movies; hanging out, eating, cooking with friends; biking; presently studying tango with my girlfriend.

How easy is making friends?

My first friends were other international students from the Intensive English Program. We studied, ate, and partied together. Then, in the dorm, I met students from all over the world who were studying at UNL. But international students eventually leave. I have also made some American friends, who stay in the community.

How relevant was your English program to your personal goals and to the needs of your country?

I plan to be a professor of Spanish grammar and literature. I enjoyed my grammar class in the Intensive English Program, and my interest in grammar stems from that experience.

What is your advice to other students?

Don't be shy. You will want to use English and allow others to correct your mistakes. Be open to others and try to meet people from various backgrounds. Talk in English. Use the language lab.

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