International Classroom Creates Global and Lasting Bonds

Cultural, personal and professional growth abounds in the Accelerated Certificate Programs (ACP). Students often begin the course knowing little about their classmates’ home countries. But after four months, camaraderie is inevitable. “We do a lot of team projects. I ensure that we’ve got a cross-cultural team—maybe students from Brazil, Turkey, Korea—where all kinds of dynamics happen,” says long-time instructor Richard Steele.

They learn quickly from each other as they collaborate, making decisions through group consensus and developing a business plan. “We have MBA students. Younger students who grew up in the Internet age are more media savvy. And seasoned business people or business owners who contribute a lot. So, there is diversity in background and age. And working together, they might go about it in different ways, but the results are exceptional.”

“American educational style encourages participation. Students have to do a lot of presentations in English rather than their native languages. By the end of 4 to 6 months, their ability to discuss a topic and argue their point in English is phenomenal.”

They interact with the same 30 or so people— socializing, eating, traveling to others parts of the US together—and they become close. This relationship continues often after they’re gone, having built a strong worldwide network.

“They want to learn about our business practices—how we motivate people and attack problem solving—because Americans are prolific and successful in business. Internships here broaden their knowledge, enhance their résumés, and open up career opportunities back home and in the states. “One Japanese student started her own food products company, and has developed a business as a result of taking the International Business Operations and Management Accelerated Certificate Program. That’s unique for a young Japanese woman to take such a risk.”

“Not only do the students bond together, I’ve also had the good fortune to keep in touch with many former students. In fact, I’ll be having dinner soon in Madrid with students whom I taught five years ago. It’s inspiring to see these young people start a business from scratch or help them figure out whether or not to start their own business. Some students even ask for a recommendation letter to a potential employer or to pursue graduate studies. I find this personally rewarding. I work for this specific program and with these students because I enjoy it.”

Instructor Twice
Recognized!
Marla Yoshida Honored with Distinguished Award Once Again

Clearly, there’s something special happening if a person wins an award twice. UC Irvine’s own Marla Yoshida, recipient of the 2007 Distinguished Instructor award as well as the 2005 award, and expert ESL/TESOL instructor, is the kind of person for whom going above and beyond is simply the norm. An essential member of English & Certificates for Internationals and a valuable asset to University Extension, Ms. Yoshida is a model instructor who always receives top student evaluations for her unwavering dedication to both the students and the stellar programs she has developed and nurtured over the years.

With students anywhere from 18 to 60 years of age from all over the world in her classroom, different cultural expectations are inevitable. Ms. Yoshida accepts everybody and helps them appreciate their own cultures and other cultures, setting the tone for her students to follow. She sees the multinational classroom as an asset that helps students work well together. The differences are exactly what makes students step outside themselves, adapting to different ways of thinking.

Back in their home countries, these students may have learned a lot about grammar and vocabulary. Here they are asked to express their ideas. “These students learn to be brave, take risks, and to express themselves in English. Bravery is a lot of it,” says Ms. Yoshida.

Making the Most Out of Your American Experience

Whether you’re looking for the coolest hangouts, making new American friends, or becoming involved on campus, our activities staff is ready to get you started. These are some of the programs available:

1) Communication Club:
	This is a fun and great way for you to meet our campus students and local residents, while practicing your conversational English. Some enjoy meeting their partner at the movies, for shopping, or to try a local restaurant! Also, join in on regularly scheduled group activities, such as our popular beach bonfire!
2) Conversation Partners:
	As conversation partners, our very own UCI students assist you with your English language practice, while giving you the opportunity to learn about college life and American culture
3) Campus Clubs:
	Become involved on campus! Choose from hundreds of clubs and meet a variety of students that share your interests.
4) Anteater’s Recreational Center:
	Meet new friends while taking surfing, sailing or rock-climbing lessons! Enjoy the center’s 929 square-meter gym, outdoor pool, and tennis courts to name a few. Or join a sports league and become part of a team of campus students!

International and campus students have a great time at an International Potluck!

View our activities calendar>

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