Selen has been studying at ELC for eight weeks. Back home in Turkey, she lives with her parents and her brother. Selen finished her formal education and now works as a computer engineer. She decided to improve her English by studying in Boston. She chose Boston for its natural and cultural amenities and she hasn’t been disappointed.
In terms of your experience at ELC in particular and Boston in general, what do you feel most proud of?
I’m so happy I chose ELC. Everyone is very helpful and here I can improve my English in every single field. I have enjoyed Boston very much. I came before the winter and now I’m excited for spring. Boston has a lot of nature sights, like the river and the harbor that make it a beautiful city. I also think it’s a cosmopolitan city – I have met many people from all around the world here.
What has been the best activity you participated in and why?
I loved the Halloween party! There were a lot of costumes and it was exciting. My costume was a pirate with a parrot on my shoulder. But the party was a good activity to meet other students, play games and practice talking with everyone.
What teacher at ELC made the most impact on you and why?
I like all the teachers here. They have their own styles, which I like. It helps to see different ways to get to my goals. But, my favorite teacher is Timothy. He speaks Turkish, so if I’m really having a hard time finding the words, he can quickly tell me in Turkish.
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
I must read something every day. I try to read in English so I can see how the sentences I learn in class are used in real life. I read slowly but I enjoy it.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy reading and watching movies. I also like cooking. I especially like to make desserts because I like to decorate them and make them beautiful.
What is your favorite English word?
I learn a new word every day, but my favorite is “Appreciate”. To me it is full of emotion and feeling.
What is your favorite American food/place?
My favorite American food is donuts. All the other foods here I can get in different countries, but I feel that donuts are really American. And delicious. I love New York City so much. I loved visiting the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty.
What would your advice be to an incoming ELC student?
I think they should feel happy to be at ELC because they are definitely going to reach their aims here. They are going to need self confidence while talking and don’t be afraid. Everyone is so friendly, don’t afraid of talking.
What does the future look like for you?
First, I have four more weeks at ELC. My plan is to prepare for interviews for my job. I hope to get a job as a computer engineer in the U.S. I want to continue my career here. I miss my family but I want to improve and work here.
