ESL Student Experiences by Darcy Force

"The ESL Program at Southwestern Adventist University was an amazing and great experience for me. To be honest, I never thought that I could learn another language in another country far away from my family. This program allowed me to get to know people from different parts of the world. The program provides a different learning experience which involves field trips, labs where you practice your listening and speaking skills, and classes.  The program helped me in my spiritual life allowing me to get to know God and build a relationship with Him. The environment is wonderful, people are friendly and the best thing is that everyone is willing to help you during your learning process. I have developed many friendships out of it, and I actually met my soulmate, my wife.  The ESL program will give you so many memories that you will never forget."

--Jorge Luis Morales from Puerto Rico

"Studying in another country is a really big challenge, especially because you are going to be away from your comfort zone and from those who you love the most, such as family and friends. I came to United States in 2013 to learn English and then get my degree in Computer Science.  Southwestern Adventist University has been such a blessing to my life. The ESL program became like a big family. I came without knowing any English, but after some time with much determination and great help from my teachers and tutors I was able to learn English in the length of a year.  I was able to start successfully with my major in computer science, and today I am a sophomore. I give thanks to God for giving me strength to go through all this and to everyone that helped and has been helping me to be a better student."

--Henriques Moises from Angola

"Studying English at Southwestern Adventist University is an amazing opportunity. People are so friendly and welcoming.  I met friends from all over the world, such as Brazil, Mexico, Angola, Cuba, and many more countries. I have learned about different cultures, and it was eye opening for me.  I never expected learning English would be fun, but Southwestern professors and staff made me feel like I was at home.  I never regretted studying in the ESL program, and I thank God that He gave me the opportunity to stay in this school.  SWAU is a peaceful, spiritual, and loving place to study English."

--Hanna Kim from South Korea

"The ESL Program at Southwestern Adventist University is simply unforgettable.  It was an amazing experience.  We got the meet great professionals who helped us into learning English as well as the students who always help one another.  Don’t expect to learn overnight. At Southwestern you will be pushed and motivated to learn at a pace that is realistic to the American culture.  Trust in God first, motivate yourself and challenge your limits and you WILL learn English.  Southwestern and the ESL program will never be forgotten!"

--Felipe Lacerda From Brazil

"I came to Southwestern Adventist University from Angola knowing no English at all. But I achieved my goal and completed the program in two semesters! I’m now a junior studying business and continue to improve my English every day. My favorite thing about the ESL program was that I felt so comfortable with the tutors and the teachers. It wasn’t easy getting used to a new culture, but I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to learn and observe the American culture. ESL was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget."

--Heder Sampaio from Angola