“Embrace the power of learning! You may initially hesitate or doubt whether or not to enroll in English at Work classes, but rest assured that the advantages outweigh any concerns. By signing up for English at Work you will gain more confidence, and a deeper understanding of English, and unquestionably, a world with better opportunities will open up for you.”
Ricardo Soto and his family immigrated to the United States in 1997, seeking better opportunities and safety. Since his arrival, Ricardo recognized the importance of improving his English skills to find better job opportunities. Although he had taken English classes back in Mexico, he knew he needed to learn more.“The English classes I had previously taken were not enough for me to communicate effectively in the U.S.”
Currently, Ricardo works for ISS at Takeda Pharmaceuticals in Thousand Oaks, CA and this is his sixth year with the company. Ricardo acknowledges that English proficiency has been crucial for his success on the job. “Understanding my colleagues and meeting work expectations require that I have a solid grasp of the language.” To enhance his English, Ricardo decided to participate in the English at Work program. This was the first time English at Work was offered to his company and it proved to be immensely helpful, allowing him to work on his English skills and apply what he learned in class directly to his work. The content was not only focused on improving vocabulary and grammar, but also addressed safety, reporting, and data maintenance – things that are relevant to his day-to-day responsibilities.
English at Work is designed to allow students to learn, enhance, and practice their English. Each module encourages comprehensive learning with group activities, breakout sessions, and individual work. “The instructor ensured active participation from all students, thus fostering a collaborative learning environment.” Ricardo’s primary goal was to improve his grammar. The weekly individual writing assignment played a significant role in boosting both his grammar and confidence. He now feels much more at ease speaking and writing in English. “Before this program, I feared being judged, and did not feel confident enough with my English. Now I am more confident to speak and write; the homework and live sessions certainly allowed me to reach such confidence.” After Ricardo graduated from English at Work, he continued learning English by taking a Mexican literature class in English.
Ricardo’s success story serves as a testament to the effectiveness of English at Work, and he wholeheartedly recommends the program to others. “I can’t recommend this program enough, whichever English level you have, you will certainly see benefits and new opportunities open up for you”.
The National Immigration Forum would like to thank Camila Chicaiza, Business Engagement and Inclusion Programs intern, for highlighting this story.