U.S. English and Culture

Good communication is essential to success.  While communicating in English can be challenging for native English speakers, it can feel even more difficult for Visiting Fellows who may not yet had the opportunity to master English and/or U.S. culture. That said, it is essential for scientists and clinicians to hone their communication skills to move forward in their careers.

You are the only one who has the power to improve your English. No matter how long you live in the U.S., improved English skills require regular practice. We recognize that figuring out where to begin can be overwhelming.  This site aims to make finding what you need a little bit easier.

Activities aimed at assisting you with improving your ability to communicate with individuals in your research group and your community are listed below.  We hope you will read more about them and take advantage of those that interest you.* 

•  Attend English Communication for Visiting Scientists, an intensive two-day workshop: the course was formerly known as 'Improving Spoken English,' - please check out the past version that has been videocast 
• Explore communication resources on our website, such as videocasts of:
  • Creating and Presenting Dynamic Posters
  • Talking Science: Designing and Delivering Successful Oral Presentations
  • Communication Science: Tools for Scientists and Engineers
  • And more videocasts of OITE events
• Take an English course or join a conversation class:
• FAES has English courses on campus for a fee.
• Montgomery County  , offers free programs
• Northern Virginia  , offers free programs and programs for a fee.
• The International Center for Language Studies in DC  , provides programs for a fee
• English Now!   , includes some free sessions and programs for a fee
• Explore a library or a bookstore: In your local library or bookstore you can find a wide variety of books geared to helping people communicate more effectively in both work and personal spheres. The OITE has a library on campus - please visit our library for books to help you improve your English communication skills.

• Visit our U.S. English Resources page for more tips!

For questions or to suggest new activities that might benefit all Visiting Fellows, contact Dr. Sharolyn Kawakami-Schulz in the OITE.

* Please note: This list is for informational purposes only. Except for OITE offerings, the OITE has not reviewed these classes and cannot endorse any particular offering. You will need to do additional research to determine the appropriateness of a class or activity.