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Hello,
My name is Nisrina. I’m from Indonesia and currently study A2 level and I want to share my experience about living with a host family.
I live in one of EF Academy’s host families in Kidlington, the south part of Oxfordshire, which takes 20 minutes to get to by bus from the school campus. I’ve been living there for around 5 months, and love it so much. The family is originally from Iran but have been living in the UK for more than 8 years. I’m in a single room, so instead of sharing a room with someone else, I have chosen to be by myself as I’m the kind of person that can concentrate more on my work if I’m alone.
Since I moved there I have gained not only new experiences, but I have also gained cultural knowledge, especially ‘Iranian Culture’. I have learned some Farsi words and I have also tried many kind of delicious Iranian food that I’ve never known before. They have also been really nice to me as they have made me feel like “I’m home”. Living with a host family has been one of the most amazing things that has happened in my life, and also the best thing about living with a host family is that although you do not have your family here, you know you will always have another shoulder to lean on when you are sad, someone to share your happiness with, and someone who will take care of you while you are here.
For me, living with a host family has also improved my communication skills and English as I have experienced real life, everyday situations, like meeting new people or making new friends outside the school by for example seeing the same people every morning because we take the same bus schedule. This therefore helps me get ready to cope with similar real life situations in the future.
My host family also has two small dogs called Bella and Maxi. Since I like animals, I often play with them and love them so much. So that is a little bit about my experience living with a  host family.

Hear what Nisrina from Indonesia has to say about being an A-Level, EF Academy Oxford student living with a host family in the UK.

A student’s perspective: Host family life in Oxford - EF Academy Blog

A student’s perspective: Host family life in Oxford ‹ EF Academy Blog

A student’s perspective: Host family life in Oxford

Students perspective host family life oxford

Congratulations to our EF Academy Oxford students who have achieved some great results on our A- Level program. An impressive 41% of our students achieved the top or high-passing grades of A*/A/B. This achievement is particularly impressive given that 2017 is the first year of the new linear A-Levels that have been designed with UK universities to strengthen further the academic rigor of the A-level qualifications (which are graded A*-E).
Our highest-scoring students were: Yu Ngai, from Canada, who will be attending the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) to study Psychology (UCLA is ranked #7 in world by this subject); Zixi Chen, from China, will attend Edinburgh University (ranked #23 in world) to study Accounting and Finance; Zhoshy Sabdalin, from Kazakhstan, will study Economics at Loughborough University (ranked #8 in UK by this subject); Eloho Etieri, from Nigeria, will study Law at Nottingham University (ranked #5 in UK by subject);  and Hoa Nguyen, from Germany, will study Bio-processing of New Medicines at UCL (ranked#7 in world).
The students had this to say of their experience at EF Academy Oxford:
“EF Academy strongly supported me in accomplishing the highest possible results.”
“Provision of extra support classes pushed us towards even greater progress.”
“Teachers are highly qualified.”
We congratulate our students for their hard work and wish them every success for the future.

Congratulations to our EF Academy Oxford students who have achieved some great results on our A- Level program.

Congratulations to to our EF Academy Oxford A-Level alumni - EF Academy Blog

Congratulations to to our EF Academy Oxford A-Level alumni ‹ EF Academy Blog

Congratulations to to our EF Academy Oxford A-Level alumni

Congratulations ef academy oxford level alumni

It seems just like yesterday that the Class of 2017 graduated in June.  We wanted to take a few moments to highlight the success of the class in the university application process and wish them well on their journey.  The Class of 2017 set the standard for success for future classes to emulate.
The QS World Rankings are considered one of the top barometers to gauge success in the university admission process.  This year’s class earned 134 admits at 34 of the schools listed in the QS Top 100 World Universities.  This included places at top American universities such as Yale, Johns Hopkins, UPenn, Columbia, UCalifornia – Berkeley, UCLA, UCalifornia – San Diego, NYU, University of Wisconsin, University of Washington, University of Illinois, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, UCalifornia – Davis, Ohio State, Boston University, Purdue and Penn State.
In the United Kingdom, they gained placements at nine schools in the QS Top 100: University College London, University of Edinburgh, Kings College – London, Manchester, London School of Economics, Warwick, Nottingham, Birmingham and Southampton, as well as the three Canadian schools ranked, McGill, Toronto and the University of British Columbia.  Further abroad, they were accepted at University of Melbourne, Sydney, New South Wales, Queensland and Auckland.
These acceptances in the QS 100 reflected a 67% increase from 2016, and reflects the stature with which EF is viewed at some of the top universities in the world.  Many of these schools also visited the EF New York campus last fall to meet our students and we look forward to that opportunity again this fall.
In the United States, the standard many look at is the US News and World Report rankings.  We also saw a dramatic increase in acceptances at those schools by the Class of 2017.  In addition to schools already listed in the QS group, our students also gained admission to these schools in the US News Top 50:  Washington University – St. Louis, Emory, Georgetown, University of Southern California, Virginia, Tufts, Wake Forest, Boston College, William & Mary, Rochester, Case Western, California – Santa Barbara, Northeastern, Tulane, California – Irvine, Lehigh, Miami and Pepperdine.  The Class of 2017 earned 141 places at these schools, an increase of over 100% from the previous year.
Though larger universities tend to resonate better with our EF students, US liberal arts colleges are becoming more attractive to many of them.  This year’s class earned places at ten liberal arts colleges ranked in the Top 50 US Liberal Arts schools: Colby, Holy Cross, Dickinson, Grinnell, Kenyon, Mount Holyoke, Oberlin, Rhodes, Skidmore and Wesleyan.
The University of California system has been a very attractive option for many of our students and we were pleased to see 76 admits to the various campuses in the UC system, which includes Berkeley, UCLA, San Diego and Davis in the QS Top 100.  37 of the 76 admits were to these four schools, along with admission to the Irvine, Riverside, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz campuses.
At EF we also have a commitment to support students with special talents and interests, especially in the arts, and we were pleased to see our students gain places in six of the QS Top 50 World Art Schools: Parsons School of Design, Pratt Institute, Chicago Art Institute, School of the Visual Arts (NY), California College of the Arts and the Savannah College of Art and Design, while one of our finest musicians will study at the New England Conservatory of Music.  Students were also accepted in Film Programs at Emerson, Boston University, NY Film Academy and Columbia College – Chicago.
We also support those students focused on pre-professional programs in specialty fields.  Students gained admission to five of the top fifteen hospitality schools in the US: Michigan State, Nevada Las Vegas, Penn State, Purdue and Temple along with Les Roches in Switzerland.  Students were accepted in pharmacy programs, aeronautical programs, interior design, fashion and business programs around the world, including France, Norway and Spain.
Anyone familiar with EF knows the diverse background of our students, something we take great pride in.  Though the vast majority of the Class of 2017 will remain in the US to study, members of the Class of 2017 will attend university in thirteen additional countries: Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and the United Kingdom.  We wish them all well.

The Class of 2017 set the standard for success for future classes to emulate.

EF Academy New York receives exceptional university acceptances - EF Academy Blog

EF Academy New York receives exceptional university acceptances ‹ EF Academy Blog

EF Academy New York receives exceptional university acceptances

Ef academy new york receives exceptional university acceptances

With the winter holidays right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to curl up on the couch, watch movies, and relax. But this can also be a fun opportunity to embrace your newfound language skills. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite Christmas and holiday-themed films to practice and learn English with.
<h3>The Santa Clause</h3>
This is a great pick for getting used to hearing English spoken with an American accent. You might also be surprised by some of the different words used in America and England: For example, in America, ‘Santa Claus’ is known to live in ‘The North Pole’. In England, ‘Father Christmas’ lives in ‘Lapland’.
<center><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="giphy-embed" frameborder="0" height="260" src="https://giphy.com/embed/3ohA2HfJPYXL4Opi2A" width="480"></iframe></center>
<a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/filmeditor-santa-christmas-movies-3ohA2HfJPYXL4Opi2A">via GIPHY</a>
<h3>How the Grinch Stole Christmas</h3>
Jim Carrey as ‘The Grinch’ is the perfect character to put your English language comprehension to the test. Using quotes from children’s books, Christmas carols and stories, you’re bound to pick up some festive words to add to your vocabulary. Cindy Lou Who is pretty cute too.
<h3>A Christmas Carol</h3>
Fancy a full British-English immersion? Based on Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol is perfect for English learners who want to get beyond basics. The story follows elderly miser Ebenezer Scrooge who, after visits by spirits of past, present, and future, transforms into a kinder, gentler man. The film features plenty of proper English terms and reminds us that reflection allows us to learn and grow.
<h3>The Muppet Christmas Carol</h3>
Or fancy a new twist on this classic tale? Let the muppets take you on a journey through Victorian England. Now you know a little bit about this story, you’ll find it easy to follow along, even if you’re not sure about some of the words. If you need any more persuading to learn English from Kermit the talking frog? I’m not sure I can help you.
<h3></h3>
<h3>Elf</h3>
Elf has become a loveable family film for the holidays. Funnyman Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, an ungainly elf who is sent to New York in search of his true identity. Everything is new to Buddy – the city, humans, the language. Buddy teaches us that it’s ok to ask questions and learn with new words with delight.
<center><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="giphy-embed" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://giphy.com/embed/l2YWvhSnfdWR8nRBe" width="480"></iframe></center>
<a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/filmeditor-will-ferrell-elf-l2YWvhSnfdWR8nRBe">via GIPHY</a>
<h3>It’s a Wonderful Life</h3>
A timeless holiday classic, It’s a Wonderful Life is considered one of the most loved films of American cinema. With plenty of moving dialogue, there are several opportunities to try on a few new phrases. Including some of the ones in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4ne13Zft9Q">this famous speech</a> when the main character, George Bailey stands up for what he believes in. Plus, it’s a great time to listen to James Stewart’s unmistakable accent and voice.
<h3>Rudolph</h3>
Based on the famous song, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a lovable animal with an unusually radiant nose. Rudolph begins as an outsider because of his uniquely colorful nose, and after some trials and tribulations becomes the hero who saves Christmas! The film is filled with classic, catchy songs that you can sing along to that will help you practice your vocabulary and learn new festive words. Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus is Comin’ To Town are other classic holiday stories filmed in this same stop-motion animation style.
<h3>The Nightmare Before Christmas</h3>
If you’re looking for another claymation classic, you can’t forget about The Nightmare Before Christmas. Enjoy Tim Burton’s whimsical tale about the different worlds where holidays live. Follow the “Pumpkin King” Jack Skellington as he steps out of his home in Halloween Town and finds himself magically surrounded by Christmas. You’ll have plenty of easy phrases to learn and with Danny Elfman’s beautifully arranged soundtrack, there are plenty of songs to sing along to. All in all, it’s a great story about self-discovery, embracing different cultures, and finding inspiration in your daily life.
<h3>A Christmas Story</h3>
This classic US-American Christmas tale follows the comedic escapades of Ralphie, a boy who wants nothing more than a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. If you want a challenge to practice your English, try deciphering the words of Flick, Ralphie’s friend, when his tongue gets frozen to the flagpole.
<h3>Home Alone 2: Lost in New York</h3>
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend Christmas in New York City? This movie has everything a kid could want – unlimited funds, a suite in one of the nicest hotels in the world, endless supplies of junk food, and no adult supervision. Go on an adventure of a lifetime with Kevin McCallister.
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<a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/filmeditor-christmas-movies-macaulay-culkin-xUySTUZ8A2RJBQitEc">via GIPHY</a>
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Study English in the UK or US and find a holiday adventure of your own for next year.

Christmas is just around the corner. Practice your English skills with this fun list of holiday classics and whimsical Christmas adventure.

10 Christmas films to learn English with - EF Academy Blog

10 Christmas films to learn English with ‹ EF Academy Blog

10 Christmas films to learn English with

10 christmas films to learn english with

Today, we live in a globalized world. One where more students study abroad, travel is increasingly accessible, and companies strategize to find success in a global market. With that comes a growing demand for additional language skills.
Polyglots stand to see immense benefits in both their personal and professional lives as they increase their cultural awareness and gain vital skills for a number of growing industries. So, how exactly could your child benefit from becoming fluent in an additional language? 
<h3>1. Higher exam scores</h3>
If you want your child to ace their exams and perform better on assignments, learning a foreign language could help them along. Being multilingual is proven to strengthen cognitive functions that can help students recall information faster and even improve native language and mathematics skills. Students who study foreign languages are far more likely to <a href="https://www.stodilia.org/cms/lib/MN02226726/Centricity/Domain/172/FLAbib.pdf">perform better on exams</a>, especially on standardized tests. 
<h3>2. Better understanding of new cultures</h3>
When it comes to culture, language plays as great a part as the food, entertainment, and intellectual achievements. So it should come as no surprise that learning a foreign language can help people become more aware and <a href="https://www.linguisticsociety.org/content/does-language-i-speak-influence-way-i-think">understanding of different cultures</a>.
Research would even suggest that people may <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/life-bilingual/201111/change-language-change-personality">respond differently</a> to situations depending on the language being spoken at the time. And while there is always some debate about whether or not speaking a new language changes the way you think, it’s clear it has an effect on how you see the culture.
<blockquote>“Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going.” – Rita Mae Brown</blockquote>
Simply put, learning a foreign language can help your child understand new cultures and gain insights into how its native speakers see the world. Which could be valuable throughout their life if they decide to live, work, or study abroad. 
<h3>3. Stronger multitasking skills</h3>
Another strength your child will gain from speaking a second or third language is the increased ability to multitask. In a 2011 study from <a href="https://news.psu.edu/story/160653/2011/02/18/juggling-languages-can-build-better-brains">Pennsylvania State University</a>, it was revealed that being multilingual makes it easier for the speaker to switch between different structures and tasks. They’re also likely to engage regularly in a form of mental exercise called code-switching, where a speaker alternates between two languages, which could result in stronger abilities in both languages.
<h3>4. Better career opportunities</h3>
Arguably the most common reason for a person to learn a second language is that they’d like to have more opportunities. This includes personal development but one of the most outstanding gains could be within their professional life. 
Some of the most prominent career fields, including international business, healthcare, tourism, and social work, place a high value on employees with a wider range of language and cultural understanding. It also makes candidates stand out when applying for jobs, internships, and especially university – all experiences that will contribute to their career aspirations. 
Speaking a second or third language means your child’s employability will continually be enhanced as the doors of opportunity open for them. 
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Wondering how to take your child from English learner to fluent speaker? Learn more about our international boarding school.

Speaking a second or third language means your child's employability will continually be enhanced as the doors of opportunity open for them.

4 benefits of your child being fluent in a foreign language - EF Academy Blog

4 benefits of your child being fluent in a foreign language ‹ EF Academy Blog

4 benefits of your child being fluent in a foreign language

written by IBYI student, Dongpeng Li
Last month, students from EF Academy New York celebrated our annual Arts Night show for this semester. The entire Art Night was made up of two parts: A performance of music and drama, and a combined exhibition of art works from the art classes and the fashion club. Some of my own work in photography was exhibited as well. This exhibition will last until the end of this semester.
The art classes and music classes prepared a lot for the Arts Night. Taking the art class as an example, we saw people working on their paintings throughout the whole week before the show started. The art rooms were always full of people after school during this period of time. The same is true of the music classes. “We had practiced the songs we performed for more than three weeks in class,” said Jerry Xia, one of the guitarists at the performance: “To be honest, I think this performance really meant a lot for the music class since it was the first time that the music class could ever put up a band and come up with such a nice performance on stage. The band collaborated really well on stage and the illumination in the theatre was fantastic in terms of creating an atmosphere. I was really proud of everyone who participated that day.”
Besides the musical performance, the art exhibition was attractive as well. Personally, I participated in the art exhibition as a photographer. This was the very first time for me to exhibit my work in a public setting. In my opinion, it was pretty much a big project as 30 of my photos were exhibited and I literally carried them all the way from China when I came back from my summer break in September. It took me a lot of effort during the past two years of my photographic career to make this come true and photography has become part of my identity as I move along the way. It is undoubtedly interesting to see how I have grown from a complete beginner to who I am today in photography during the past two years. I have come along this way all on my own. Therefore, I think that this experience is able to prove, at the very least, that nothing is not achievable as long as we put forth the effort.
The Arts Night show also created a huge impact on students all over campus. Axsel from Norway was one of them. “I was really amazed by the shows” said Axsel, “It was the first time that I realized that we have so many talented people in this school. They obviously demonstrated great ability and the work they presented were amazing. I am so glad that was surrounded by so many talented people.”
The Art Exhibition of the art show will continue on at least till the end of semester. Therefore, feel free to check it out before you leave for Christmas if you haven’t yet!

Last month, students from EF Academy New York celebrated our annual Arts Night show for this semester.

EF Academy celebrates the arts - EF Academy Blog

EF Academy celebrates the arts ‹ EF Academy Blog

EF Academy celebrates the arts

Ef academy celebrates arts

EF Academy’s Drama Club is alive and well and it’s been the most popular club, if not the most well-known one, for nearly a decade.
Led by former actress, Ginny Borton, a teacher who has been with EF Academy since the school was established, the drama club stages full-length plays a couple times per year. And while she and her teaching partner, Giovanni Villari, direct and help students put on the plays, it is ultimately the students who produce and act in the plays, build the sets, arrange the lights and create the costumes.
“That is particularly unique among high schools because most schools, especially in the US, have parents who come in to help and extra people are hired to do everything,” Ms. Borton says. “Here, our students take great responsibility and they get a lot of self-esteem from it. That’s what really drives it too because it’s truly their own production and they become very invested in what they are doing.”
Ms. Borton earned her Master’s Degree in Educational Theater from New York University and taught at the high school and college level before coming to EF Academy. The daughter of a geologist, she grew up and traveled through Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East with her family and attended an international boarding school abroad. She says she was particularly drawn to the position because she knew she could relate to her students and their experiences – and the fact that everyone comes from a different place is one of the things that Ms. Borton thinks makes the program so special.
“From the beginning, we found that theater is truly a family and a place where students from all backgrounds can get together and work as a team,” Ms. Borton explains. “The different cultures come together in delightful ways. In the first year, there were only about 100 students, but we already did three different productions that year because everyone wanted to do theater. We didn’t have as many clubs then, so the theater became the place that everyone wanted to go to after school to be together and play together.”
Though drama and theater are specific areas of interests, the activity often draws students who are not exactly interested in pursuing theater in the future but who enjoy time spent being creative with friends. Ms. Borton says that many of her students are planning on studying economics or politics in the future, but they have all still expressed how much they can take from the class and use in their own lives. This, she says, is very exciting and inspiring to see.
“What I find is that theater is full of life lessons. I think that draws students in and they learn that the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. You learn about teamwork and commitment and responsibility and dedication and investment and time, and what the outcome of all of that is,” she says. “The joy they feel when the curtain goes up, and when they receive all the applause, that’s something that really stays with them throughout their lifetime.”
The Drama Club has put on the Legend of the Sleepy Hollow, Canterbury Tales, Our Town, Grease, Footloose, Little Shop of Horrors, Pippin, Love of Three Oranges and Treasure Island, and this year they will produce Street of Shadows. Oftentimes, Ms. Borton will have other faculty members participate in the plays; the music director and band leader have been known to help out in the productions.
Another difference between EF Academy New York’s theatrical productions and those put on by other high schools is the audience. While most schools can invite family members to fill the seats in the theater, at EF Academy, the productions must appeal to the student body. The plays often inspire those in the audience to get involved in the club themselves. But what truly brings the students back to the theater is the desire to support their friends, whether they are on stage or backstage. The theater program at EF Academy also thrives thanks to support from administrators who believe in the program and the power the arts have to influence and improve high school education.
EF Academy New York’s theater program also includes the IB theater course, which focuses more on teaching students about theater around the world, theater traditions, theories and how to become a theater artist rather than having them put on productions. However, over the course of the two years, the IB theater students do create their own theater piece from beginning to end.
With such close proximity to New York City, it’s easy to find inspiration on Broadway and to see shows on a regular basis. Ms. Borton is very connected to the International Schools Theater Association (ISTA), which is an important part of the IB theater program. ISTA hosts a three-day student conference in NYC every year. It brings theater students from around the world together and gives them the tools to succeed in IB theater by organizing workshops with experienced leaders from different parts of the globe. Mr. Villari also takes students who are interested in tech theater to NYC to assist with hanging lights or set construction for small productions by actual theater companies.
There are many opportunities for students to explore and learn about drama and theater, whether they are studying the subject or they just love the excitement of seeing the curtain rise. Ms. Borton says that she, too, learns something every day.
“They really have all the answers, it’s just a matter of giving them the freedom and permission to trust themselves,” she says. “I relearn every day this joy in theater and the delight of learning and discovery.”
For her, the true joy of theater at EF Academy New York is “how it melts away the borders and boundaries, they all blend together and that adds so much to what the students are doing here.”

EF Academy’s Drama Club is alive and well and it’s been the most popular club, if not the most well-known one, for nearly a decade.

Center stage in the Big Apple - EF Academy Blog

Center stage in the Big Apple ‹ EF Academy Blog

Center stage in the Big Apple

Center stage big apple

The EF Academy Torbay House system has already got off to a fantastic start with students getting really excited from day one. Competition has been ratcheting up with students being awarded points on our praise system for handing in great homework, doing really well in lessons or doing something around the school to help students or staff. But today we held the first of many house competitions to come with our school sports day.
The school is divided into four houses. Elberry, Salton, Oyster and Ansty’s which are all coves around Torbay. Last year we interviewed staff for the illustrious positions of Heads of Houses and we now have some great Heads Sean Kirby who teaches Science, Owen Styler who is our Head of Sport, Rachel Galvin who is a Math’s teacher and Esti Ayo who is a business teacher.
Over the course of the year we will hold a number of competitions including a talent show, debate contest and various sport competitions including football, tennis and basketball. As well as this Heads of Houses will also organize social events and meet regularly in house assemblies.
To really kick things off we held a sports day for the entire school at the fantastic Exeter Athletics stadium which is one of the best athletics venues in the Southwest of England. In the previous week leading up to the sports day students had to collect their house T shirts and sign up for a variety of track and field events that took place throughout the day.
Track events included the full range of distances from 100 to 800 meters and relay races with teams from all the houses. The field events included shot put, discus, high jump and long jump. The enthusiasm of the students was totally infectious and the competition between houses was amazing considering it’s at such an early stage in the year.
You may ask what is all the fuss about what’s the prize at the end of it all? Well there will be trophies and there will be free cinema tickets and dinners out but the real prize is pride. Pride in your house and your fellow students efforts and hard work but also pride in the school because while everyone is competing against each other we are all competing for the school. All of that pride was so evident today in each and every student and staff member and it was so amazing to see this enthusiasm and determination to win.
After such an amazing day there had to be one winner and today it was Elberry that took the winner’s trophy and Elberry students who cheered the loudest at the awards ceremony at the end of the day. But, this is the first of many competitions to come this year so we will have to wait and see who takes the final winning trophy.

The EF Academy Torbay House system has already got off to a fantastic start with students getting really excited from day one.

EF Academy Torbay Houses: The first competition - EF Academy Blog

EF Academy Torbay Houses: The first competition ‹ EF Academy Blog

EF Academy Torbay Houses: The first competition

Ef academy torbay houses first competition

You’ve moved into your new room, put up pictures of your friends and family and bonded with your new roommates. If you have your own room at home, learning to live with someone else might be a challenge, but whether you have the space to yourself or you’re living with the same person you have math with, there are several things you will learn during this time that will benefit you for years to come.
1. Budgeting
It’s likely that this is your first time managing your own money and you will quickly learn that it’s not just fun and games. Think ahead: shampoo, toothpaste, snacks, school supplies, tickets to a concert, train fare to London or Manhattan… these are all things that you will spend money on throughout the school year. It’s up to you to manage where and how you spend your money, and make sure it lasts however long it needs to. Being able to budget your money is something that will prove to be useful at every stage of your life, and learning how to budget at a young age – or at least having some experience with managing what is in your wallet or bank account – is incredibly valuable.
2. Independence
At our residences, you live under the watchful eyes of house parents, teachers and counselors, and there will always be someone there for you when you need help, but it’s up to you to make the most of study hall, meet your deadlines and get involved in clubs and activities after the school day and on the weekends. Living in the residences gives you a certain amount of freedom you may not have had at home, but with this comes a certain level of responsibility as well. You won’t have your parents there to guide you from one thing to the next and that means you will perfect your time-management skills. You will establish your own routine, determine what study methods and patterns work best for you and figure out how to balance your schoolwork and social life – and you will do it without mom and dad telling you what to do.
3. Laundry
Missing socks, whites that are now pink, faded darks, bleached blues – oh, the dangers of doing laundry! Many of our students have said that learning to do laundry was among the challenges they faced when moving away from home for the first time. Our advice: learn how your parents do laundry at home and pick up their tricks before you leave so you know what to do when it’s time for the real deal. Doing laundry is something you will have to do the for the rest of your life, why not learn how to do it now? And if you ever figure out where all those missing socks go, let us know.
4. Respect
Sharing a space with a “stranger,” whether it’s your room, bathroom, hall or house, can be a little uncomfortable at first. You want to feel at home, but someone is in your way. That will all change as soon as you learn to respect one another. Set some ground rules, be honest about what you need/like/dislike and make sure you listen and keep an open mind. If any issues come up, your house parents or guidance counselor will be there to help, but keep in mind that patience, understanding and respect for someone’s wishes, needs and space can go a long way. And who knows, maybe that stranger will turn out to be your best friend.
5. New languages
At EF Academy, we are dedicated to giving our students an international experience that opens their world. We do this just as much in the residences as we do in the classroom. That’s why we make sure that students living together speak different languages, which helps ensure that you use English as often as possible. Living with someone from a different country also means that you can pick up a new language, maybe one you even plan on studying at EF Academy. Beyond that, you will also learn about a different culture, and you will live with someone who can be your own personal tour guide when you visit their home.
 
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Students at our international boarding schools make life-long friends, experience the culture of their host country and find their passion in the sports, clubs and activities that inspire them most. Our student life program is powered by their engagement and school spirit.

You’ve moved into your new room, put up pictures of your friends and family and bonded with your new roommates.

5 things you can learn when you live in student residence - EF Academy Blog

5 things you can learn when you live in student residence ‹ EF Academy Blog

5 things you can learn when you live in student residence

5 things can learn live student residence

Last week, first year students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s award returned from their practice expedition and this is how it all went.
On Saturday, the 14th of April, we had our practice day in Cotuit Hall, with the help of George and Rick from Adventure Expeditions. We learned how to make our route cards, navigate the map, set up tents and prepare a hot meal on a stove. We were ready for Sunday. Or at least, that’s what we thought. The following morning, after enjoying our last decent breakfast for a few days, we boarded a bus heading towards White Mark Farm, in Watlington, which we will later learned would be our campsite during our stay in the Chilterns.
With our backpacks ready, we started off on day one. From the start it was clear it was not as easy as we had thought. The backpacks were heavy, our feet were hurting from blisters, the hills were steep everyone was beginning to regret our decision to embark on this expedition. We were horrible at cartography, we lacked concentration, and if this wasn’t a practice day, we would be completely lost. When we finally reached the campsite, we were relieved the day was over but unfortunately, it wasn’t. We were disorganized and disoriented, we’d hardly set up our tents and preparing dinner took ages. Clearly, this hasn’t been a good day. Spending the night in the cold tent was horrible and waking up the next day felt like the most difficult task in the world.
The following morning, more things went off course. We had trouble packing away, dividing the equipment among our team. However, we had no choice and we were facing yet another day. We were expecting a disaster, because unlike yesterday, we were completely independent. The shocking thing about today was… we were getting by quite well. The team was getting along perfectly, we were (moderately) better at reading maps, and it didn’t feel as exhausting as it was the day before. We became closer as a group and reaching the campsite was, much easier than the day before, although we had to walk slightly further. The second evening at the campsite was undoubtedly the highlight of this trip, for everyone. We had food – lots of it, we were chatting, laughing and recounting the day’s events. We also got used to sleeping in our tents and had a good night’s sleep, unlike the previous night. One more day, and we’ll be done.
The third day was the day of our return, but before that – there was more to walk. That day was the day we saw the most beautiful scenery, and we even managed to see some wild deer on the way. Having come across a forest fire, our last few hours were slow, and we did not cover much ground. That being said, we eventually found our meeting point, without going off-course a single time. Around four in the afternoon, we were finally on the bus, on our way back to EF Academy.
After walking nearly 60 kilometers, we arrived back on campus. The sense of accomplishment and gratitude I felt for finally having a hot shower and sleeping in an actual bed was overwhelming. This expedition taught us all many, many things we would have otherwise not learned had we not embarked on this expedition. The team was pitted against such a steep learning curve – we acquired so many skills in such a short period of time. I can, with absolute conviction and confidence, say I am proud of us all, not just for making it through this, but in learning and growing from our experience. June expedition – we’re ready!
 
About the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award: The <a href="https://www.dofe.org/">DofE</a> is the world’s leading youth achievement award, giving millions of 14 to 24-year-olds the opportunity to be the very best they can be. There are three levels which, when successfully completed, lead to a Bronze, Silver or Gold award. The main differences between them are the minimum length of time they take to complete, how challenging they are and the minimum age you can start. The Gold level also includes an additional <a href="https://www.ef.co.uk/pg/dofe-gold-residential/">residential section.</a>

Last week, first year students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh’s award returned from their practice expedition and this is how it all went.

Three days in the chilterns: Our Duke of Edinburgh practice expedition - EF Academy Blog

Three days in the chilterns: Our Duke of Edinburgh practice expedition ‹ EF Academy Blog

Three days in the chilterns: Our Duke of Edinburgh practice expedition

Three days chilterns duke edinburgh practice expedition

A large group of students from EF Academy Oxford visited the <a href="https://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/visiting-and-outreach/open-days?wssl=1">Oxford University Open Day</a>, an opportunity to see several parts of the university up close and meet professors and undergraduates. Oxford is one of the best universities in the world, a combination of research-intensive faculties and the residential and teaching colleges making very different from most universities.
First, there was a tour of Brasenose College led by Immy, a current Law student – viewing the hall, common rooms, student bedrooms and the most important space of all, the library. The students then split into different groups to explore different colleges and university faculties. One group got to see Balliol College and attend a talk on Politics, Philosophy, and Economics. Dr. Daniel Susskind, previously Kennedy Scholar at Harvard and adviser in the 10 Downing St. Policy unit, talked about his research into technology, especially artificial intelligence and its future effects on employment.
<img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-13118 size-full" height="426" sizes="(max-width: 568px) 100vw, 568px" src="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Balliol_Library.jpg" srcset="https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Balliol_Library.jpg 568w, https://www.ef.com/wwen/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Balliol_Library-300x225.jpg 300w" width="568">
Other students went to the Medical Sciences Faculty to discover the detail of the Oxford Medicine Degree and observe a mock interview conducted by Prof. Chris Norbury, a researcher on the genetics of cancer and Dr. Jeremy Taylor, who works on the central nervous system, especially vision. Students also attended faculty events in Mathematics, Physics, Experimental Psychology and visited several other colleges.
Hear from some of the students about the experience:
<h4>“It was fantastic to see the medical interview, I got to understand how they ask the questions and I saw that it will be possible for me to give good answers. The current students were able to tell us all about life in Oxford, the tutorial system and other opportunities such as internships outside the degree programme.” 
– Ana Júlia</h4>
<h4>“It was really cool to see the blackboard Einstein wrote on when he gave a lecture on cosmology in 1931” 
– Laurin</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">“I was really impressed with how Dr. Susskind was passionate and able to convey his ideas in Economics, and what the cutting edge issues are facing governments and companies” 
– Mastura</h4>
 
The EF Academy students were strongly inspired to be part of the Oxford University academic community in the future. Each year, as part of the school’s Pathway Activities, all of our students are able to attend a number of lectures given by Oxford university teachers and researchers.
<center><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V6J_m3FTP2w" width="560"></iframe></center>

A large group of students from EF Academy Oxford visited the Oxford University Open Day, an opportunity to see several parts of the university up close.

EFA Oxford goes to Oxford University - EF Academy Blog

EFA Oxford goes to Oxford University ‹ EF Academy Blog

EFA Oxford goes to Oxford University

Oxford goes oxford

Tom Nguyen, from Vietnam, graduated from the New York campus in 2014 and is currently studying at Parsons School of Design in New York. Learn more about our featured alum:
Why did you choose to go to EF Academy?
It was actually quite a spontaneous decision. My mom was asking me if I wanted to go abroad and EF Academy was actually the first option that came up because it is well advertised and a trusted institution. I thought, “Why not?” and went for it and I am very happy that I did so!
What university did you go to afterwards? What did you study and why?
I am currently studying at Parsons School of Design in New York, which is a one of the top design school in the U.S. My major is communication design, which entails a lot of design in the space of advertising and branding. I think the coolest project that I have done up to this day is designing a magazine from scratch.
I chose to study communication design because I have always liked art and design. However, I also liked biology. In the end, design was more attractive to me. I was also very lucky to have the support of my parents.
Tips for current students that want to study what you study?
Take the opportunity at EF Academy to experiment a lot, that is the only way to find out what you really like. I tried and liked so many different things at EF Academy before I found my passion.
Do you keep in touch with your EF Academy classmates?
Definitely, the friendships I created are the best parts of my EF Academy experience. Last year, I went to Mexico and visited my old friends (Shout out to Fernanda and Lucia). They showed me around and I really got to experience things only locals would get to experience.
What’s your favorite memory from EF Academy?
Definitely the Drama Club! Each production took a semester, so there was so much effort and time that went into them. Everyone involved in the productions really bonded with one another. My first drama show was Treasure Island and then we went on to do Footloose and the House of Horror.
What do you miss the most?
The friends and the teachers, for sure!
What is one thing that you learned from EF Academy that you found valuable for university? For work life? For your personal life?
Open-mindedness: The fact that I was exposed to people from so many different cultures at EF Academy made me very aware of different perspectives. I personally really appreciate that all these cultures exist. This is something I try to make use of in my designs as well: I always try to consider from different perspectives when I’m deciding how best to design something.
What tips do you have for current students?
Be active and sign up for activities because high school is a great time to experiment. Do not be afraid of making mistakes because that is when you learn the most.
Who is the most successful alum that you know of?
Anja Trenkwalder – A German student who graduated a year before me and is now studying business at the Washington College in Maryland.
Arthur Yeremenko– A student from Kazakhstan who is now studying Computer Science at UC Berkley. He is really inspiring as he travels everywhere and can always tell you a “Wow-story.”
Short questions:
Name: Tom Nguyen
Age:  19
Nationality:  Vietnamese
How many languages do you speak? Vietnamese, English
EF Academy campus: NYC
Graduation years: 2014
Program: IB
Residence or host family: Residence, old building
Favorite subject: Art and biology
Favorite teacher:
Stephen Fleming – biology teacher
Jessica Eddis – art teacher
Giovanni Villari – drama
Ginny Borton – drama
Oscar Jimenez – languages
Favorite club / society: Drama Club – best thing that happened to me at EF Academy. We were like a family and performed for the whole school. It was really fun!
Which is the next country you want to visit? 
Scandinavia e.g. Sweden and Denmark: These countries are design hubs.
Shouts outs to:
<ul>
<li>Class of 2014</li>
<li>Ohana family</li>
<li>The Russian Family</li>
<li>First Floor Lugari</li>
<li>Ms. Jessica Eddis, Mr. Stephen Fleming, Mr. Villari, Mrs.Borton, Oscar</li>
</ul>

Tom Nguyen, from Vietnam, graduated from the New York campus in 2014 and is currently studying at Parsons School of Design in New York.

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