Preparing for undergraduate success with the English Language Institute

My name is Mariana Coscatl Castro, and I am originally from Puebla, Mexico. I’m in my second year of Fashion, and I began my TMU journey by completing the ESL Foundation Program at the TMU English Language Institute (ELI) in 2022. I’m here to share what my experience in the ELI was like and how it set me up for success in my undergraduate program!

Student life at ELI

I started studying at the English Language Institute while I was in Mexico due to the pandemic. As I began the ESL Foundation program (two terms), I was very nervous and excited about this new stage. Even though I took my courses online, I enjoyed the classes and my teachers, as each class was different and had fun activities. There were also extracurricular activities, such as quality conversations with the International Peer Supporters, where we could talk about any topic of our preference, such as music, culture, TV shows or even give advice for university classes.

Thanks to my pathway program, I improved my speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills because there were different and exciting activities to help me practice each of these in class. For example, one activity that helped me improve in various areas was the analysis of videos since we spoke in groups and had to create a short text on the topic. My teachers were an essential part of my growth in my second language because they were patient and aware of each student's needs. I had one-on-one meetings with each of my teachers to receive feedback on my development and identify areas for improvement. One of my favourite activities that helped me improve my skills was analyzing sustainable issues; we would have structured debates about these topics, which helped us improve our presentation skills and get experience arguing points.

During my time at the ELI, I received a lot of support from the staff, who were always on the lookout to ensure any questions I had about my ELI program or degree program were answered. Before graduating from the ELI, I was able to meet with my academic advisor for Fashion who was able to answer the questions I had about my course–I was very excited to enter the program, so I asked a lot of questions!

Transitioning to my undergraduate program

When I started the Fashion program, it was easy for me to integrate into the program's classes. I felt academically prepared to do various kinds of assignments. During my time at the ESL Foundation Program, I learned how to take notes from readings, craft effective essays, and present in dynamic and engaging ways. These skills continue to help me to this day. In addition, I found it easy to integrate into the TMU community after graduating from the ELI. Once the deadline for in-person opportunities reopened, for example, I joined TMU Leadership events where I developed a plan to find my leadership potential; I also attended Tri-Mentoring Program events and OLAS (a Latin American club), where I met many people.

International Peer Supporter

Once I graduated from the ESL Foundation Program, I had the opportunity to join the ELI team as an International Peer Supporter, where I mentor new international students. Part of my responsibilities is to create different strategies and activities such as events, workshops, and even trips so that new students can have an enriching experience and a successful transition into their undergraduate program at TMU. Being an International Peer Supporter has been an unforgettable experience as I have had fun at every turn, made new friends, and learned from every moment. My favourite memories at the ELI have been the events where we explored various areas of Toronto, such as Toronto Island, Distillery District, Riverdale Park Farm, and many others.

This is my last year as an ELI International Peer Supporter. I am incredibly grateful for the moments I have had that I have enjoyed and learned from, although I will miss meeting new students (definitely my favourite), my coworkers, and organizing events. I am excited to see what the next two years of my undergraduate degree will be like!