While the ESOL program has assisted in integrating non-English speakers into the community, those involved have expressed a desire for a clearer focus on academic assistance. Senior Hanieh Hosseini has taken it upon herself to shape the Welcome Club into an opportunity for the ESOL community to receive academic assistance from those who are already integrated.
“I was, myself, an ESOL student when I came here,” Hosseini said. “I was in ESOL 4 and then I thought that we were missing something to kind of help students. I thought help from a peer would be really effective.”
The club currently offers assistance for speakers of over five foreign languages, including Chinese, Arabic and Farsi. While activities are mainly oriented toward tutoring, the members have discussed possible expansions in the future.
ESOL department chair and club sponsor Sharon Carser-Brown believes the club is a welcome opportunity for those looking to assist peers in need.
“Anytime students want to help other students or get involved with the community, I’m very much supportive of that,” Carser-Brown said.