Student Engagement Centre (SEC)
6 - 138 ED North
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
Embedded Files
Zuzana (zuzana@ualberta.ca), Shona (slwebste@ualberta.ca) or Vicky (chiachi@ualberta.ca)
Week 3: Take action
Week 3: Take action
Simon Says Sept 14, 2026
Simon Says Sept 14, 2026
It’s our first full week of SEC activities! Join as many as you can to practice your English, meet people, and make the most of your time at U of A.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to find out what’s happening at the SEC and hear what other students have already learned, tried, and experienced in Canada.
Get involved. Try something new. Make this week count!
Week 2: Set Goals
Week 2: Set Goals
Simon Says Sept 8, 2026
Simon Says Sept 8, 2026
The semester at the U of A and ELS has started! We hope you are settling in and are ready to work toward your language-learning goals. The SEC is here to support you along the way!
It’s a short week, starting on Tuesday. Think about your goal, choose SEC activities that can help you achieve it, and watch this week’s Simon Says for some great tips for success from our instructors.
Weekly Schedule: Practice English, meet people & get involved!
Weekly Schedule: Practice English, meet people & get involved!
SEC THIS WEEK | SEPT. 8 – 11 SEC 6-138 |
SEC THIS WEEK | SEPT. 8 – 11 SEC 6-138 |
M: Labour Day — No School 🍁
T: Writing Workshop: 11:00 & 1:00
Free writing, sentence structure & improving your class writing.
W: U of A Student Speakers 11:30 12:15
Current U of A students share their tips for success.
TH: Conversation Club 11:00 & 1:00
Practice follow-up and clarification questions.
F: Campus Adventure 10:30 & 12:30
Join a group, explore campus & complete fun challenges!
Week 1: Off to a good start!
Week 1: Off to a good start!
Our initiatives:
Our initiatives:
ELS LIFE Magazine and James Dean Sauter Recognition
ELS LIFE Magazine and James Dean Sauter Recognition
Remembering James-Dean Video.mp4Last Term in Pictures
Last Term in Pictures
Introduction
Welcome to English Language School! Week 1 is about getting to know other students and feeling comfortable with the English Language School and U of A campus. Please join us for this week's activities and do your best to practice your English and meet new people! The ELS and SEC staff are here to support you as you take this exciting next step in your personal and academic development.
Simon, the ELS mascot
Simon, the ELS mascot
It's me, Simon! Maybe you've seen my famous vlog, Simon Says. I know, these videos are pretty sensational, aren't they? (Especially the ones with me in them!)
My favourite thing to do is posing for pictures with students! I also love playing hide and seek, taking long naps in the winter, and going on adventures around Edmonton. Please take me along with you!
In the SEC, I always enjoy listening to the students practice English during the break. You can always share your secrets with me (but don't worry: I never tell anyone else!).
Who will support you this term?
Who will support you this term?
Hello, I’m Vicky, and I am a former ELS student, so I understand how challenging it can be to study at a university in a second language!
I’ve been in your shoes, and I’m here to support you as you adjust to life and studies in Canada.
I’d love to connect with you, share tips and tricks for succeeding in your classes, making friends, getting involved on campus, and discovering fun things to do in Edmonton. Whether you want to practice English, ask questions, or just have someone to talk to, let’s connect and engage! I am here to help make your time in Canada a positive, successful, and memorable experience.
Come visit me in the SEC (ED 6-138) or email me. I’d be happy to support you and help you make the most of your journey here at the English Language School!
Hello, my name is Zuzana, and I will be your SEC instructor along with Shona this term.
I enjoy helping students practice English and become part of the university community.
This term, I hope to see you every day during:
Study Zone on Mondays
Writing Workshops on Tuesdays
Conversation Club on Thursdays
Friday Fun events each week
These are opportunities to practice English, build confidence, and make friends. Even if you feel shy, you will be supported and encouraged.
I look forward to a wonderful term together!
Whether I'm helping students in the Student Engagement Centre or teaching in the classroom, I have three learning philosophies:
Learning should be fun!
Everyone can be successful.
Just trying is the best way to start.
Come chat with me so I can get to know you! I want you to feel joy, get connected with people and services, and be supported in your personal and academic journey. I'm always available to listen and strategize with you. I also have some ideas about how you can improve your English and be an effective learner.
Fall term and Winter terms with our awesome students
Fall term and Winter terms with our awesome students
Student Stories
Student Stories
Reihaneh's Story
Reihaneh's Story
A little while ago we asked our former EAP student, Reihaneh, about her transition from the English Language School to university. How did it go, what do you think?
If you are curious about how to practice English outside the classroom, SEC activities offer the easiest option. Make a habit of attending the Conversation Club on Thursdays, and on Fridays, hang out with us as we explore the campus and the community. This way you can make new friends while working on your language skills.
Stay tuned and check out the SEC schedule!
Helpful Links & Resources
Throughout this term, you may have questions about learning English, understanding Canadian culture, or experiencing new things in Edmonton. Below, We will post links or resources that might help you make the most of your time in Canada!
International Student + Visitor Services (ISVS) Event:
English Conversation Club (ECC) - Every Friday from 3:00–5:00 in the Telus International Centre
This is a great chance to meet students at the U of A outside the ELS and to get some extra practice for your English communication skills! The Telus Centre is close to the Education building so you can walk there in just a few minutes.
University of Alberta:
The Gateway (U of A student newspaper)
Edmonton:
City of Edmonton – Attractions & Events
To Do Canada – "What's on this week in Edmonton?"
Edmonton Oilers – Game Schedule
Edmonton Oil Kings – Game Schedule
ELS LIFE MAGAZINE
ELS LIFE MAGAZINE
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