The English as a Second Language, or ESL, Center is designed to help international students studying in America, as well as anyone whose first language is not English.

ESL serves a wide variety of students traveling from different places such as China, Asia, India, Europe, Africa and South America.

Doris Macdonald, associate professor and director of the ESL program says that the ESL center serves many purposes.

“Many people are regulars and come every week,” Macdonald said.

The center is run by three tutors as well as a small number of volunteer tutors.

The tutors consist of instructors, faculty and advanced graduate students with ESL experience. Although the center serves many students, Macdonald would like to expand the program.

“We have been understaffed this year,” Macdonald said, “I would like to serve more people in the community.”

Students can make appointments or schedule meetings through a log-in book at the center, although it may be tight now due to finals.

“The schedule is packed full,” Macdonald said.

All of Macdonald’s tutors have prior ESL experience. The center allows students to converse orally, as well as in writing, receive guidance in grammar and test preparation. Macdonald said that the ESL center can help provide students with an introduction to the culture of the American University.

Kevin Stadt, a graduate assistant and ESL tutor, feels that students are not the only ones that benefit from the center. Aside from international students, faculty, spouses and parents receive assistance, Stadt said.

“The people who work here have a lot of experience with ESL,” Stadt said.

In addition to providing assistance in speaking the ESL center, tutors can also help explain cultural differences and help students adjust to new environments.

“We try to help them socialize with American culture,” Stadt said.

The ESL office is located in Reavis Hall, Room 306b.