Words of wisdom from ELC students

Valentine's Day Bake Sale for Charity

At ELC Boston we hosted our second annual Valentine’s Day fundraiser for charity. ELC students and staff raised a total of $297 in donations through the flower exchange and bake sale. Denisse and Aurore won the privilege of choosing the charity out of the group of people that donated $5 or more. They choose Water.org, which has transformed hundred of communities in Africa, South Asia, and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation. Water.org works with local partners to deliver innovative solutions for long-term success.

The class poses with the flowers they received on Valentine's Day!

Water fact #1: Nearly one billion people (about one in eight) lack access to clean water.

Cupid's Flower Delivery Service

Water fact #2: More than 3.5 million people die each year from water-related disease; 84% are children.

Brittany and Melissa deliver flowers on Valentine's Day

Water fact #3: For only $25, Water.org can bring someone access to clean water for life.

Thank you to everyone that contributed to the fundraiser by buying flowers and baked goods!

Janet with her Valentine's Day flowers

A series of 5 college workshops are now being offered at ELC Boston for students who are interested in attending college in the US. ELC encourages students interested in undergraduate and graduate programs to attend the workshops. The workshops give an opportunity for students to learn more about the application process and the college experience. ELC wants to assistant our international students in studying and achieving a higher education in the U.S.

The first workshop focused on choosing the right college for you. Below are some notes from Laura on this topic. If you have any questions, go visit her at her desk!

• There are many things to consider when you are choosing a college. If it is possible, schedule a visit in order to see the campus for yourself or set up an interview with an admissions counselor to discuss your interests or concerns. Ask a current student; they always give the most honest answers!
• As an international student, location is very important. Nightlife, museums, and nearby universities can enhance your experience during your education! Look for a city known for its safety and public transportation. If you don’t have a car, will it be easy to get around? Would you like to live on campus? Although living in a dormitory may be more expensive, it is always a wonderful way to meet new friends and immerse yourself even more with American college culture.
• Finding a school that offers the academic program you want is important. Many schools are beautiful, but not all of them will have the same specialties. Going to the university website is an easy way to see what programs a school offers and read about their courses.
• Junior Colleges or community colleges are two-year institutions. They offer specific diplomas and certificates as well as Associative Degrees. Often, the first two years of general education in undergraduate studies can be taken at a community college instead of a four-year liberal arts college. Community colleges can be a step toward a four-year college and are less expensive. You do not need to take the SAT or ACT to attend these schools.
• A liberal arts college will provide you with two years of a general education as well as two years of a more specific education of your interest. You must take the ACT or SAT as soon as possible after you have decided on a four-year university.
• Colleges with specific types of education specialize in a certain type of study. Examples of these types of schools are art institutes, technical institutes, and non-degree programs.
• The Cost of college is important when choosing the right school for you! Some schools offer more scholarships and aid to international students, while other colleges are simply less expensive. The cost and scholarship offerings can be found on the school’s website.

The next College Counseling Workshop will be held during lunch on February 23rd!