Is an intensive English course right for me? Is it a good fit? Most people choose an intensive English language course because they are very motivated, need fast improvement, and have clear goals.
Learners in intensive English courses often fit one of these six profiles.
An intensive English course (an immersion course) is a fast, effective way to improve your English for any of the reasons above.
Speaking English is truly your “passport to the world,” allowing you to communicate with people from other countries and cultures. It gives you access to a wide range of experiences, information, connections and, very importantly, careers. In today’s globalized world, almost everyone can benefit from learning English. Yes, English is the world’s top second language, and now we all have to get on board. But how?
There are lots of learning options these days, from weekly classes to apps, but intensive courses remain the gold standard for serious, motivated learners. So is an intensive English course the right choice for you?
Interviewing is hard, and doing it in your second language may feel like “a bridge too far” (=more than you can achieve; too difficult). The whole job search process is language driven, and that means you have to produce a great CV, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, communicate by phone and email, and finally – interview on Zoom or Teams. And then, if you are fortunate enough to get to the interview, the “rubber will meet the road” (=the real challenge will begin). In the interview, you have to speak about yourself, and while the interviewer will be listening to the content of your answers, your language level and skills will also be under observation. Sentence structure, grammar, accent and overall fluency will be under evaluation as soon as you open your mouth. Depending on how much improvement your English requires, an intensive course can be an invaluable part of your job search experience.
Starting a new job, or being promoted to a new role, is an exciting yet challenging experience, especially in an international, English-speaking company. Communication will be key to your success, and it is advisable to “up your game” (=improve your skills) before you start. Enrolling in an intensive English course will help you quickly sharpen your communication skills, making it easier to adapt to the workplace culture, feel more confident and perform more professionally in meetings, presentations, or casual conversations. You’ll be better equipped to express your ideas clearly and collaborate with colleagues. Perhaps most importantly, you will not have to worry about your English, and that’s worth a lot!
Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but presenting in a language you’re not fully comfortable with adds an extra layer of difficulty. Whether you’re presenting research findings, a business success story, a government address or a keynote speech, your English skills should be strong. An intensive English course can help you refine your grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary, making your presentation flow smoothly and leaving your audience impressed! You’ll also practice “thinking on your feet” (=answering questions/engaging with the audience in an impromptu manner), which is critical when responding to audience questions. And with a private intensive English course, you can use your teacher as your personal editor: reviewing presentation slide text to make sure that there are no errors and that your English is concise, in the correct register, and sounds native.
Relocating to a new country is thrilling. But it’s also challenging, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the local language. Whether it’s for work, study, or personal reasons, moving to an English-speaking country means you’ll need to interact in English daily, from grocery shopping to socializing, working and navigating public services. Even advanced speakers can get stuck when speaking about particular categories of items. Ask yourself, ”Can I discuss types of wall paint at the hardware store? Explain my health issues to the doctor? Understand an insurance policy?” A private, customized intensive English course will prepare you for these challenges, big and small, helping you communicate with ease in your new environment, making your relocation smoother, and every day easier and less complicated.
Networking at international conventions and conferences can be a “game-changer” (=a pivotal moment) for your career or business. However, English is often the lingua franca at these events, and a lack of fluency will hinder your ability to participate fully, making you an observer rather than an engager. Anxiety about attending such an event can be almost overwhelming, and will certainly diminish your pleasure and your professional results. Taking an intensive English course before attending a major event ensures that you’ll be able to remain calm and confident, hold meaningful conversations, ask insightful questions, and expand your professional network. You’ll leave a lasting impression on peers and potential collaborators by speaking good English.
English language certificates such as Cambridge, IELTS, and TOEIC are valuable qualifications and are recognized by academic institutions and employers worldwide. If you’re studying for one of these exams, enrolling in an intensive English course can provide the focused preparation you need. In an intensive test preparation course, you’ll receive targeted instruction on specific exam structure, specific language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), and practice timed exercises to build your accuracy and confidence. This structured learning approach will significantly boost your chances of achieving a high score.
Pro tip! Start with an Oxford Online Placement Test. It is inexpensive and will give you accurate feedback on your current level.
The English Center is ready to help you dive into an intensive, private, customized, quality, private English course at a great location in the Netherlands, or online! Whether you are preparing for a job interview, a Ted Talk, or a “great American road trip,” we can create an intensive English course to suit your schedule, goals and budget.
You can start with a free intake appointment with a native-speaker trainer. Let’s talk!
Authors: K. Finlayson (Business English Trainer) and B. de Jong-Pauley (Director, The English Center), Amsterdam, 2024
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