Student Engagement Centre (SEC)
6- 138 ED North
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
Embedded Files
contact: Zuzana (zuzana@ualberta.ca) or Vicky (chiachi@ualberta.ca)
The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs, and research stations are primarily located on the traditional territory of Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, and Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe nations; lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems, and cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.
Week 3: Set SMART goals
Week 3: Set SMART goals
Campus Adventure
Campus Adventure
September 15, 2025
September 15, 2025
The first couple of weeks have flown by! By now, you’re probably starting to settle into your new routine and feel more comfortable with your classmates and in Edmonton. It’s still early in the term, which makes this the perfect time to think about your goals—and how to make them SMART.
In this week’s Simon, you’ll explore what your SMART goals can be and how you can stay engaged every day. Your challenge: set meaningful goals and create a plan to stick with them!
ELS orientation 2025.pdfWeek 2: Let's get the ball rolling
Week 2: Let's get the ball rolling
September 08, 2025
September 08, 2025
The first week at ELS started with lots of excitement! We’re so happy to get to know you, and we hope you’ll have a great first term with us.
Each week we’ll kick things off with Simon Says, our signature vlog. This week’s video introduces SEC programming and highlights some fun clubs you can join.
M: Study Zone and 500 Study Zone
T: Writing Workshop: Sentence building
W: Guest Speaker: University Prof on Student Success
Th: Conversation Club
F: Campus Adventure
Which activities will you join?
Ranta Success lecture Fall 2025 (1).pdfLast term in pictures
Last term in pictures
Introduction
Welcome to English Langauge 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.
ELS Orientation
ELS Orientation
Join us in the Student Engagement Centre (Room 6-138) for a brief presentation led by Dr. Don Mason, the ELS Director. Dr. Mason will introduce the school, outline program expectations, and share valuable tips to help you succeed in your studies.
What can you explore beyond ELS?
What can you explore beyond ELS?
Have you seen our Friday Fun Reels on Instagram? 🥳
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!
Who will support you this term?
Who will support you this term?
Zuzana Buchanan (she/her)
zuzana@ualberta.ca
Hello, my name is Zuzana, and I will be your SEC instructor along with Barbara 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!
Barbara Edmondson ( she/her)
bedmonds@ualberta.ca
Hello students!
My name is Barbara and I will be one of the 136 Seminar instructors. Fun fact: Zuzana and I started teaching here at the University of Alberta together 13 years ago! Like Zuzana, I am passionate about teaching English and encouraging students to learn as much as they can about their new home in Canada. You are incredibly brave to choose to study abroad, and we want to help you make the most of it.
I look forward to welcoming you in the seminar and seeing you at the various workshops the SEC offers! Together, let's have a great term.
Vicky Chang (she/her)
SEC assistant
chiachi@ualberta.ca
Hi, I'm Vicky!
I'm a former ELS student so I know how hard it is to study at university in a second language!
I can share some tips and tricks for making friends, finding fun things to do, and being successful in your classes. I want to help make your time in Canada a great experience!
Come visit me in the SEC (ED 6-138) or email me.
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!).
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 Internation 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
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