Student Engagement Centre (SEC)
6 - 138 ED North
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
English Language School
Engage - Learn - Succeed
Contact: Silvia (silvia.sgaramella@ualberta.ca) or Vicky (chiachi@ualberta.ca)
As the term comes to an end, this week is a time for self‑reflection and celebration. Take a moment to look back and think about how you have done this term. You are more than your grades. Consider what you have learned about yourself, your learning strategies, and the community around you. We hope you feel more confident and knowledgeable as you prepare to take the next step in your learning journey.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what is happening around the school and to reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of the term. Think back to your SMART goals. Which ones did you achieve? Which ones helped you grow or change direction? Reflection is a powerful tool that can help you set even stronger goals for the future.
Come to the SEC this week to relax, connect, and celebrate the end of term with us! Join us for tricks with our pet therapy dog Skoki on Wednesday, take part in the LAST Kahoot, and enjoy an ice cream floater for Try It Tuesday. These activities are a great way to finish the term on a positive and fun note!
Skoki will visit us on Wednesday at 11:30 a.m.
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, gain new experiences, and build valuable skills. This week, we will explore different ways students can get involved through volunteering, both on campus and in the wider community. Volunteering can help you meet new people, practice your English, and learn more about life in Canada.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what is happening around the school and to discover activities that highlight volunteering opportunities and their benefits. Throughout the week, think about how volunteering can support your personal, academic, and professional growth, even with a small time commitment.
Join our activities to learn more about volunteering and discover ways to make a positive impact while building confidence and connections!
Adjusting to a new culture can be exciting, but it can also be challenging. This week, we will focus on culture shock and the experiences that often come with living and studying in a new environment. Feeling confused, frustrated, or homesick at times is a normal part of the adjustment process.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to discover activities designed to help you understand and manage culture shock. Throughout the week, reflect on your own experiences and notice the strategies that help you adapt, connect with others, and feel more comfortable in your new surroundings.
Welcome to Week 9! This week is all about student responsibilities and staying engaged with your learning. It is a great time to keep up with your coursework, ask questions when you need help, and continue building strong study habits as the term moves forward. The Student Engagement Centre is always here to support you!
We are also pleased to introduce The James‑Dean Sauter Recognition. Do you know a classmate who is kind, supportive, and helps create a welcoming community at ELS? This recognition celebrates international students whose positivity and engagement make a real difference. It is not about having the highest grades. It is about having the biggest heart.
Wishing you a motivated and uplifting week!
Sustainable living means making everyday choices that help protect our environment and support a healthier future. This week, we will explore simple and meaningful ways to live more sustainably, both at school and at home. Small actions, like reducing waste, saving energy, or choosing reusable items, can make a big difference when we all take part.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what is happening this week and to discover activities that will help you build sustainable habits. Throughout the week, notice the choices you make and think about how they affect the world around you. Even one small change can have a positive impact.
Join our activities to learn practical tips for sustainable living and to take steps toward a greener lifestyle!
Midterm exams are happening this week, and it is a great time to dive in, review your notes, and build confidence for each test. If you want to practise your conversation skills, go over tricky concepts, or get a bit of extra support, the Student Engagement Centre is ready for you.
It is your Self Space on campus, a bright and welcoming spot where you can study, ask for help, or just change your study environment to boost your energy.
Wishing you a strong, positive finish to the month!
Reading Week is a chance to pause, rest, and regain your focus for the second half of the term. Many students use this time to review course material, organize upcoming assignments, or simply give their minds and bodies the break they need. However you choose to spend it, the goal is to support your well-being and help you return to your studies with clarity and energy.
At the Student Engagement Centre, we encourage you to approach the week with balance. Read at a comfortable pace, take time for activities that restore you, and check in with your goals for the term. If you would like guidance, resources, or a conversation about your academic plans, our team is here to help.
You can still join our Conversation Club on Thursday. Wishing you a restful and productive Reading Week!
Presenting information clearly and confidently is a skill that can help you succeed in school, work, and everyday life. This week, we will explore strategies to help you share your ideas in effective and engaging ways. Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what’s happening around the school, to discover activities designed to help you practice presenting information, and to hear some helpful advice about giving presentations. Throughout the week, think about how you structure your message: What is the main idea? What examples support it? How can visuals, tone, or organization make your message easier to understand?
Join our activities to build your skills and feel more confident sharing your ideas!
Heritage is the collection of stories, traditions, and experiences that shape who we are. By learning about one another’s backgrounds, we create a richer, more connected community.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to discover what’s happening around the school and explore activities designed to help you share your culture and learn about others. From classroom discussions to community events, there are many ways to celebrate the diversity that makes our school unique.
As you move through the week, take time to reflect on the traditions, memories, or values that are meaningful to you. You might teach someone a word from your language, describe a special holiday, or join an event that highlights the stories of your classmates. Even small moments of exchange can deepen understanding and appreciation.
How will you celebrate and share heritage this week?
Managing your time well can make a big difference in your university experience. With the right strategies, you can stay on top of your studies, reduce stress, and still make time for fun and rest.
This week, explore practical time‑management tips and join us for engaging activities that will help you stay focused, organized, and motivated – your future self will thank you!
This week at the English Language School, our theme is connection and inclusion. These ideas help create a positive environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.
Watch this week’s Simon Says to learn what is happening around the school and to explore the activities designed to help you meet new people and feel part of the community. There are many opportunities to get involved!
As you move through the week, think about how you can build meaningful connections inside and outside the classroom. You might invite a new classmate to join a group, share something about your culture, or participate in one of our events. Small actions can make a big difference in helping everyone feel included.
How will you contribute to connection and inclusion this week?
Welcome to the English Language School, and Happy New Year!
We are thrilled to get to know you and hope you have an amazing term with us.
Each week, we will start with Simon Says, our signature vlog. Watch this week's episode to find out what is happening at the English Language School and to explore all the activities we have planned. There is so much to take part in, so be sure to check out our calendar!
Our first week has already been full of excitement and new goals.
What is your SMART goal for this term, and how do you plan on achieving it? We are here to support you!
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!).
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!
Vicky Chang (she/her)
SEC Assistant
chiachi@ualberta.ca
Hi, 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.
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