Life Before English Language Bridge

As international students, you will soon be faced with the challenge of adapting to a new environment (Toronto, Canada) and a new language (English) and a new culture.  Fleming College Toronto English Language Bridge (FCT ELB) can help you prepare for this. Before starting the program, there are a few things that you can do to set yourself up for success in ELB.

1. Get Familiar with English 

First and foremost, it is important to familiarize yourself with the English language and use it as much as possible. There are several ways to do this, such as watching English movies and TV shows, listening to English music and podcasts, and reading English books and news articles regularly. The more you expose yourself to the language, the more comfortable you will become with it. If you are already in Canada or know some English speakers, you can improve your confidence by practicing with them. 

2. Develop Good Study Habits  

Another important aspect of preparing for ELB is to develop good study habits. This means learning how to manage your time effectively, setting goals for yourself, and staying organized. One way to do this is to create a study schedule or a to-do list that outlines the tasks you need to complete each day. This will help you to stay on track and avoid procrastination. Additionally, you can practice good study habits by reading and writing in English as much as possible. This will help you to improve your reading and writing skills, which are essential for success in ELB and beyond. 

3. Study Canada’s Culture and Customs  

In addition to improving your language and study skills, it is also important to learn about the culture and customs of Canada, and Toronto, where you will be studying. This can help you better understand the society you will be living in and avoid misunderstandings related to culture. You can do this by researching the customs and traditions of the country, as well as by speaking with people who are familiar with the culture.

4. Connect with Other Students 

One of the best ways to prepare for ELB is to connect with other international students who are also planning to study at the university this year. This can help you to build a support system and to make friends before you arrive. You can connect with other students through social media, online forums, or by attending orientations or events.

5. Be Open-Minded 

Finally, it is important to be open-minded and embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with studying in the ELB program. Studying in a new country can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging at times. It is important to be open to new experiences and to be willing to learn from your mistakes. This will help you to grow as a person and to make the most of your time at FCT. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, before your ELB program starts, doing some preparation can go a long way. By improving your language and study skills, learning about the culture and customs of the country, connecting with other international students, and being open-minded, you can set yourself up for a successful and rewarding experience studying abroad. Remember to take advantage of all the resources available to you, including online language resources, orientations, and support from family and friends. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals and make the most of your time studying abroad. 

We are so excited to meet you at Fleming College Toronto, and can’t wait to see you in our ELB Program!

To learn more about ELB, visit the program page here.