ELC BLOG

Layla is a Saudi Arabian student who has been studying in Los Angeles since September. She is very focused on her studies and is always looking to help and motivate her fellow students, particularly those that are struggling at a lower level. Layla is one of our most advanced-level students and we are always happy to see her in the office, as she always has a smile on her face!

Which part of Saudi Arabia are you from?

I am from one of the largest cities in Saudi, Riyadh. There I worked in services for General Electric.

Why did you decide to come to the U.S. to study English?

I came here in order to get my Masters Degree in Applied Linguistics and eventually my Doctorate. My goal is to teach Linguistics in a University setting in Saudi Arabia. PSU, KSU and PNU are the schools I would most like to teach. I’ve currently applied to a few schools to start my Masters program in the Spring, and right now I’m just waiting for their responses.

Where did you get your undergraduate degree?

I studied at PSU in Saudi Arabia. Perhaps this is why I would like to go back there as a professor.

Why did you choose to study in Los Angeles?

The weather! I like doing outdoorsy sports like walking, hiking, and working out so the good weather year-round was appealing to me. I was also attracted to California because there are many good schools and different programs offered. I also like the fact that Los Angeles is very diverse.

What do you like to do here?

Besides outdoors activities, I like observing people and getting to know new cultures.

Is there any advice you would give students looking to come study in the U.S.?

Yes. Do your research! It is really important that you know what is available to you when you are here. I did a lot of searching before I decided to come to ELC. I would also say that you should learn at least some English before coming here because you will need it to get around.

Do you have any plans for the holidays?

I hear that some students are going to Disneyland this Christmas. I think that I might do that too!