Student Engagement Centre (SEC)
6 - 138 ED North
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
Contact: Zuzana (zuzana@ualberta.ca), Silvia (silvia.sgaramella@ualberta.ca), or Vicky (chiachi@ualberta.ca)
How much do you use social media? Are you good at managing your time on it? Do you follow ualberta els to get inspired?
Watch the final Simon Says episode of the term! Learn about this week’s activities, explore the ELS Life Magazine and hear instructors share useful habits for future success.
Comprehension Questions
What activities can students join during the final week?
What are two habits that instructors recommend?
Why are former EAP students invited to return to the SEC?
Discussion Question
Which habit or piece of advice from the video would be most helpful for you next term? Why?
Seeing students care for one another and lift each other up makes us very happy! Every kind word, invitation and helping hand creates a stronger sense of belonging at ELS. By carrying this kindness into future university courses and life beyond ELS, we can continue James-Dean’s Sauter legacy and nurture something everyone needs: genuine human connection.This year’s recipient is Artan, who was nominated by students and instructors for his positive energy and ability to bring people together. Students also recognized Mia, Ozge, Miguel, Narua, Nana, Mike, Yura, Leah, Kanako and Yuka for encouraging classmates, offering help, sharing ideas and creating welcoming classrooms. Thank you to all these students for making the ELS community kinder, friendlier and more connected!
We are getting closer to the finish line, so let’s use our energy to finish strong! Take a moment to think about how you are doing. Check your grades, talk to your instructor and complete any unfinished tasks.
You can still get writing help, practise speaking, learn ways to manage stress and join our final Friday Fun soccer game and outdoor party. We will play on the Quad—fingers crossed for good weather!
The video also introduces two new SEC assistants and explains how to nominate a kind and supportive student. Watch Simon Says to learn more!
Sustainable living is about making choices that support a healthier planet and a better future for everyone. This week, we will explore practical ways to live more sustainably at school and at home. Simple actions such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and using reusable items can have a positive impact when they become part of our daily routines.
Join our activities to learn more about sustainable living and find simple ways to create a greener lifestyle. What is one sustainable habit you can start or strengthen this week?
Moving to a new country or studying in a new environment can be exciting, but it can also be challenging. This week, we will explore culture shock and the experiences that often come with adapting to a new culture.
By sharing experiences and learning from others, you can build confidence and feel more connected to your new community.
Join our activities and learn strategies to help you navigate cultural differences and make the most of your experience at the University of Alberta and in Canada!
Being a successful student means more than earning good grades. It also means taking responsibility for your learning, participating in class, and making the most of the opportunities around you. This week, we will explore the habits and skills that can help you succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what is happening around the school and to discover activities designed to help you reflect on your role as a student. You can also attend the EAP 500 student presentations on Wednesday to support your peers and learn from their experiences.
Join our activities this week and continue building the skills that will help you succeed throughout your studies!
We are super excited to have you back. Did you have a good week? Did you find the time to read?
As you watch Simon Says, decide which event you are interested in joining and invite a friend to join in with you. If you haven't been to the Tuesday Writing Workshop, come this week. If you are curious about meeting new people, join the Monday international event, Convo Club, or Friday Fun. We have activities to make everyone happy! If you don't know what to do on Canada Day, click on the button below to find where to see the fireworks on Wednesday.
Happy Canada Day! 🟥🍁🟥
The SEC has moved to the 4th floor for the summer, but we're still here to support you!
This week, listen to Silvia's helpful tips for success on your speaking and writing midterms. Learn how to have a real conversation during your speaking exam and how to write a strong reflection for your written exam.
📚 This week's SEC activities:
M-Study Zone
Tuesday Writing Workshop
Conversation Club
Friday Fun Board Games (optional – drop in if you'd like to play!)
❌ No Guest Speaker
Good luck with your midterms, and don't forget to enjoy your Reading Week safely!
Do you enjoy rainy days?
This week, Simon Says talks about why rain is important in Alberta, the Sweetgrass Bear on campus, and how to become a more confident presenter. You will also learn how SEC activities can help you practice speaking, listening, leadership, and teamwork.
👉 What is one thing you learned about the Sweetgrass Bear?
👉 What presentation tip would you give to another student?
Don't forget to check out the SEC activities and submit your work to the ELS Magazine.
Join us this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for some tips and tricks to make your presentation skills better. You will use this in your future personal and academic life!
Simon Says: June 01, 2026
Did you know that stories can help us remember historical facts better? Why do you think that is?
This week, Simon Says explores a few interesting facts about Alberta's history and why storytelling is important. You will also meet Lisa, our assistant director, who shares some special objects that remind her of important people, places, and memories.
What is one interesting fact you learned from the video?
Do you have a special object from home (or somewhere else) that is important to you and you would like to share a story about it?
If you do, click on the button below and submit your photo and a short story about it.
Join us this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for a special guest speaker session with our instructor Barbara.
She will share her knowledge about the Indigenous people and Alberta history.
Simon Says: May 25, 2026
In this week’s Simon Says, teachers share simple advice for success in Canada — from asking questions to building good daily habits. You’ll also learn about workshops, Conversation Club, Friday trips, and a new ELS magazine project! Please check out the poster, choose a topic that interests you and submit a photo with a short description to us! We will feature you in the magazine. Build your ELS memory 😍 with us.
Watch, learn, and join us at the SEC!
#ELSLife #StudyHabits #InternationalStudents
Join us this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for a special guest speaker session featuring Gavin Palmer, who is a Global Education Specialist. He will share his knowledge about how international students succeed when they study abroad.
Kinsmen Park S'mores! Did you love it? Yes we did😍
Check out our SEC schedule for this week here!
Simon Says: May 19, 2026
In this week’s Simon Says video, Zuzana and Vicky talk about:
Trying ketchup chips
Renting bikes on campus
Making s’mores at Friday Fun
Joining Conversation Club
Improving writing skills at the SEC
You’ll also learn useful English phrases like “Have you ever…?” and discover fun ways to practice English, meet people, and enjoy summer in Edmonton!
Watch, listen, and challenge yourself to try something new this week
Have you ever tried ketchup chips?
This iconic Canadian snack is sweet, tangy, and full of flavour! It is definitely something you should try while in Canada!
Join us on Tuesday at noon for a fun Kahoot game and good energy!
Join us this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for a special guest speaker session with Vicky and Glab, our former EAP students! They will share their experiences in Canada, tips on making connections with people, and how to balance studying while still having fun. Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn and ask questions!
Check out our SEC schedule for this week here!
Simon Says: May 11, 2026
This week’s Simon Says shares helpful study habits and introduces SEC activities for the week. Former students talk about what helped them succeed in EAP 136, such as meeting instructors, using office hours, reading regularly, and building healthy routines. The video also highlights opportunities to practice English, meet new people, and stay connected through SEC programs like Study Zone, Writing Workshop, Conversation Club, and Friday Fun.
Have you ever tried a Nanaimo bar?
This famous Canadian dessert from Nanaimo has layers of chocolatey goodness you don’t want to miss!
Join us on Tuesday at noon for a fun Kahoot game, sweet facts, and good energy!
Join us this Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for a special guest speaker session with former ESL students! They will share their experiences, what to expect before starting academic courses in the fall, and how to prepare for success.
You’ll also get some helpful tips, advice on balancing school and life, and ideas for enjoying your time in Canada while making the most of your experience!
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.
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!).
Zuzana Buchanan (she/her)
SEC/EAP Instructor
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!
Vicky Chang (she/her)
SEC Assistant
chiachi@ualberta.ca
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!
Silvia Sgaramella(she/her)
SEC/EAP Instructor
silvia.sgaramella@ualberta.ca
Hello everyone!
My name is Silvia, and I’ll be your SEC instructor this term. I came to Canada as an ESL student too, just like you! I’ve lived in Edmonton for many years, so if you ever need advice on fun things to do or great places to eat, I’m happy to help.
You’ll see me in your EAP 136 Seminar and at all the SEC weekly activities. Feel free to visit me in the SEC office (ED 6-138) or send me an email anytime.
I’m looking forward to a fun and exciting term with all of you!
Barbara Edmondson ( she/her)
SEC/EAP Instructor
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.
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