A full-circle journey with a TMU English Language Institute graduate

The English Language Institute (ELI) at TMU has been the cornerstone of growth for many international students. With a resolution to help you “learn through dialogue,” the ELI extends learning beyond the classroom and provides students with an immersive educational experience that prepares them for their journey into undergraduate studies.

Curious to know what the ELI experience is like, I spoke to Julie, a third-year Business Management - Real Estate Management major whose journey started with the ELI and has now come full-circle as she returns there as an International Peer Supporter.

Why did you decide to join the English Boost Program at TMU?

“Coming from Vietnam, I felt like I wasn’t used to the Canadian schooling system and I wanted to practise my English speaking skills, so I decided to join the ELI. It’s one of the most important decisions I made because I ended up not just learning academic English, but also practising a lot of skills that would serve me well when I started my TMU undergraduate degree. For example, I learned the proper structure of an academic essay, proper academic writing techniques, and how to cite and avoid plagiarism. I practiced listening and speaking skills in a university context.

Because I’m a Real Estate Management major, one of the most helpful parts of the ELI was learning how to write a report. I learned how to structure ideas clearly and how to present them in class. This was very important because sometimes I have questions in class and starting at the ELI helped me feel confident in asking them and sharing my opinion. When I started my degree program, the workload and academic style felt familiar instead of overwhelming. I grew more confident participating in class, working in groups and completing my assignments.”

“In the mornings, our classes focused on reading and writing, and in the afternoon, we practised listening and speaking skills. Typically, we had classes from 9 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m. , Monday to Thursday. On Friday, we would have asynchronous (online and self-paced) classes. In the evenings, we attended workshops hosted by peer supporters, on topics ranging from time management to stress relief and cultural events. ”

“I always had opportunities to connect with ELI instructors and staff. They were approachable and encouraging, helping me understand university life at TMU, including academic expectations, time management and how to utilize available campus resources. Being part of this community made me feel more supported as an international student. I was able to ask questions, seek guidance and build relationships that eased my transition into undergrad study.”

“A major highlight for me has been the chance to be a part of the Toronto Met Vietnamese Students’ Association (external link)  where I plan events and support student activities. We’re a nonprofit organization that hosts events to engage international Vietnamese students. Before joining, I didn’t know we had such a big Vietnamese community within TMU! Here I was also able to apply the skills I learned at ELI, such as using Excel, teamwork, problem-solving and communication. To be able to have this shared achievement was one of the happiest moments for me.

Academically, I enjoy the courses offered in the Real Estate Management program. We do a lot of group work and real-world case studies. Sometimes, we have a guest speaker who actually works in the industry. They come to class and share their experiences, from their day-to-day life to their expectations when hiring a student. A moment that stands out to me was when I got a chance to meet one of the CEOs of a major real estate group. I’m very curious about forecasting housing prices and the development process of a building. It’s amazing to be able to meet professional people that work in this industry!”

“At first, I was really focused on school. But then, I started to check the ELI Instagram page (external link)  to see how students, staff members and instructors were doing. Then I started to do volunteer work here and there at the ELI — assisting with events, and sharing my own experience as an ELI graduate. It felt nostalgic to get involved again and reconnect with the staff and my old instructors. I decided to come back more and build connections. That’s when I realized that I’d like to work as an International Peer Supporter, and help guide and mentor other international students in English pathway programs.”

“As an International Peer Supporter, I helped current ELI students by answering questions about academic life, adjusting to a new environment and navigating campus resources. I also guided them through challenges to build confidence in their cultural adjustment. I see a lot of students who are really shy and don’t feel confident to share anything. My goal was to help them so that after the ELI program, they are able to step out, be confident sharing their opinion, and ask questions in class. 

I also hosted workshops, creating opportunities for students to connect with each other. As a peer supporter, my goal was to focus on being there for current students, listen to them, and encourage them to share their challenges.”

“Yes! The peer supporters when I was a student were so kind and helpful. They would come up to me and ask how I was doing and whether I needed help with classes. They would take the effort to get to know me. Sometimes, when I mentioned something about my family, they even remembered and asked again. That was touching because international students can feel lost and unsupported, but the peer supporters help students feel less alone.”

“I would advise incoming students of two things. First, don't be afraid to ask questions. It doesn't matter how bad your grammar is. It’s okay to speak slowly and take your time. That is when you start getting better because you are also practising your English, your communication skills, and that is how you grow. Asking mentors or instructors questions is important because we are here to help. We simply want everyone to be successful in school. 

Second, be active in school. Don't just come to class, study and go home. There is so much value in participating outside the classroom, like attending a workshop or an event. That is how you make connections with new people and learn from those with different backgrounds. When you get into your program at TMU, having connections and friends will help you feel less overwhelmed. You’ll know where to seek help and have someone who can listen to you. So just step outside and actually get involved in school, so that you can apply what you learn in class in the real world.”

Julie’s story is a powerful reminder that the ELI is more than a language program, it’s a community that stays with you throughout your student journey. It provides a launching pad for your success story, helping you take your first step as an international student. Just like Julie, you might start as a student and find yourself returning to lead the way for others!