Last Thursday, August 28, the ELI program came to a conclusion. After four weeks with 50 students “engaged diligently in academic pursuits during the day and evenings” WRA Director of Programs John Gordon shared that he was proud of them. “While the mission of the program revolves around an English language focus, I really enjoy watching the students gain confidence in themselves and develop meaningful relationships during the month that they are here,” he continued.

The teachers who worked with the students on a daily basis shared this admiration. Dr. Joe Slanina said he was impressed by the students and remarked, “This is such a dynamic and inspirational experience because the students are so dedicated to their studies and to embracing different cultures and different worlds. I learned much more from them than they learned from me.”

One of his colleagues, Maria Gilmore, who was on her second year with the program, shared, “I enjoy the program so much, I think it’s life changing. I learn just as much from the students as they learn from us, the teachers. It is a life changing experience for me.”

On their final day, they were able to put their English skills to the test in the “English Olympics.” The different stations had the students utilize the information they had learned about American culture and English grammar throughout the program. The students also participated in their final line dancing class.