VAL instructor Jessie Maclean recently interviewed her English Language Learning student, Prisca, who she describes as “a beautiful woman and person” who speaks from her heart and always shares knowledge with precision, taking her work seriously as a mother and professional. Jessie also commended Prisca’s command of the English language, which is on full display in the below Q&A. Read on to learn more about Prisca and her learning journey!
1. How has your time so far as a student with Vermont Adult Learning helped you to grow as a language learner?
As a student with VAL, I’ve seen significant growth in my language skills. The supportive learning environment and the personalized instruction help me build confidence in reading, writing, and speaking English. I’ve also appreciated the supportive instructors and interactive classes that helped me develop a more nuanced understanding of the language, enabling me to express myself more effectively.
2. Please share an experience from one of your VAL classes that helped change the way you think?
One experience that helped change the way I think was when I participated in a VAL class discussion, instructed by Ms. Jessica Maclean, on cultural differences. It broadened my perspective, teaching me to appreciate diverse viewpoints and fostering empathy. This experience has since influenced my interactions with people from various backgrounds.
3. Tell us a story about a project or assignment that you enjoyed working on.
I particularly enjoyed working on an assignment where I had to talk about my cultural heritage. It allowed me to share my story and learn about my peers’ experience, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
4. If you were to recommend someone to become a VAL student, what three main components of the organization would you focus on that are positive and might make a difference in one’s learning experience?
- VAL fosters a sense of community among students, creating a supportive learning environment.
- VAL’s program focuses on developing practical skills, empowering students to apply their knowledge in real-life situations.
As an immigrant, I was confronted with the language barrier when I came to the U.S. I was looking for a supportive and flexible environment that could help me achieve my goals. And VAL has a reputation for providing high-quality instruction and resources, as well as its focus on workforce development and career advancement, aligned with my needs and aspirations, that is why I chose VAL. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of the VAL community.
6. How do you think VAL will help you with your future endeavors?