Monday, November 7, 2011

Holiday Season Activities for International Students in San Diego (2011)

In the United States, the months of November and December are known as the holiday season. There are so many good reasons for students at English schools in San Diego to celebrate and have fun. It is a time of the year when friends and family can get together and enjoy a variety of festivals, events, activities and...shopping. But there are many excellent non-holiday events happening during this time as well. These are the events that our teachers, students and friends have enjoyed in the past, and that we think international students in San Diego will love in the future.

If you want more real advice and recommendations about these events, contact Student Services Director Nick Sacco at Connect English in Mission Valley: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com.

You can also recommend other events (concerts, festivals, etc.) that you have heard about. Please notify Connect English of other great ideas. You can submit event information through the Connect English website. The Connect English Holiday Activities Calendar is here to help international students in San Diego to make the most of these opportunities to enjoy American culture. Take a look:

The San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival
Date/Time: November 16th through 20th, 2011
Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North
Price: $45+
Why should I do this? Celebrity chefs, excellent restaurants, and connoisseurs of food and wine come together for an event that defines trends in cooking, restaurants, food and style. This five-day event offers over 100 exhibitors, plus shows, presentations and much more to satisfy your inner foodie. TV personalities like Sam the Cooking Guy, Bravo Top Chef winner Brian Malarkey and dozens of others are featured presenters in 2001. Get ready for a food and beverage experience that you will remember in your mind and in your belly for the rest of your life.
Website: www.worldofwineevents.com

Ice Skate at Horton Plaza
Date/Time: November 17th, 2011 through January 8th, 2012
Location: Horton Plaza, Downtown San Diego
Price: $12-14
Why should I do this? Want to experience ice skating in the heart of America's Finest City all while benefiting a great cause? Go to Horton Plaza and join them in a benefit for the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego. You can rent your skates there at the location and give it a try for the first time, or just go there to watch the experienced skaters practice.
Website: www.sdice.com

Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Date/Time: November 19th through December 31st, 2011
Location: The Old Globe, Balboa Park
Price: $24-57
Why should I do this? Choose a day or night to see the story of the Grinch in Whoville. For this holiday season tradition, the Old Globe Theater is turned into a snow-covered wonderland. This is the 14th year of the Old Globe Grinch performance, which even includes showtimes for young children during the day. Enjoy performances of favorite Grinch and Who tunes like “This Time of Year,” “Santa for a Day” and “Fah Who Doraze."
Website: www.theoldglobe.org

Thanksgiving Day
Date/Time: Thursday, November 24th, 2011
Location: Your house or a friend's house
Price: Ask your friends to contribute
Why should I do this? On this day in the United States, friends and family get together and have a big dinner. Invite your friends to your house, or go to a friend's house. Cook a turkey, some mashed potatoes, and anything else you love, and then just have a nice evening being friendly with the people you care about.
Website: www.wikipedia.org

[RELATED STORY: 2010 Thanksgiving Feast for Connect English Students]

San Francisco Trip for International Students
Date/Time: November 24th through 27th, 2011
Location: San Francisco, California
Price: $300+ per person for the whole trip
Why should I do this? Use the long holiday weekend as an opportunity to see one of the favorite cities in California and in the USA in general. San Diego Experiences organizes unique and accessible trips especially for groups of students from language schools in San Diego. Transportation, food, accommodation and guided tours are included in this sweet deal from a great tour organizer.
Website: www.sandiegoexperiences.com

Black Friday
Date/Time: Friday, November 25th, 2011
Location: All shopping areas of San Diego
Price: Depends on your habits and preferences
Why should I do this? Love it or hate it, Black Friday is the busiest shopping day of the year in the USA. Most major retailers offer excellent sale prices on everything from clothes to electronics. Shopping enthusiasts arrive early and wait in line for hours to get the best deals on the best stuff. Other people just avoid shopping centers altogether because of the parking problems and huge crowds. Whatever you choose to do on this day, make a good plan and make the most of your day.
Website: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Friday_(shopping)

It's a Wonderful Life
Date/Time: November 30th through December 31st, 2011
Location: Cygnet Theatre, Old Town
Price: $26 to $45
Why should I do this? See the performance of this Christmas classic story at the fantastic Cygnet Theatre. Connect English teacher Tim West plays the part of Clarence Oddbody and others. Be a part of a Christmas miracle by enjoying this Joe Landry adaptation of the story that American kids grew up watching all through the holiday season. It'll make you thankful for everything great in your life, and thankful even for the things you hadn't been happy about.
Website: cygnettheatre.com

December Nights in Balboa Park
Date/Time: December 2nd and 3rd, 2011
Location: Throughout Balboa Park
Price: $3 for parking, otherwise admission is free!
Why should I do this? This giant, diverse, festive, interesting and spirited celebration is a must-do event for the holidays in San Diego. Balboa Park is a beautiful place throughout the year, but for December Nights, it is amazing. Museums are free for everyone to enter, food and drinks from all around the world are offered by local cultural club. Music and exhibitions are available everywhere, and all kinds of crafts (great Christmas gifts and souvenirs) can be found around every corner. Don't miss this wonderful holiday festival for everyone!
Website: www.balboapark.org/decembernights

The 94/9 Holiday Hootenanny concert
Date/Time: Saturday, December 3rd, 2011
Location: USD Jenny Craig Pavilion
Price: $40
Why should I do this? Rock acts My Morning Jacket, Two Door Cinema Club (Uh, where's the hyphen, guys?), Matt and Kim, and Delta Spirit offer San Diegans hours of awesome music on stage at one of the best universities in Southern California. What's more, $1 of your ticket cost is donated to the "About the Music" fund, which supports local music programs.
Website: www.fm949sd.com

North Park Toyland Parade and Festival
Date/Time: Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 at 11:00am
Location: University Avenue in North Park
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? Gliding down University Avenue between Utah and Iowa Streets, this cheerful pageant will feel like a Winter Wonderland, as melodious marching bands, upbeat dance groups, cool vintage cars, beauty queens and city officials (and more!) warm your spirits. Santa Claus will be riding atop his merry red sleigh and bells will be ringing as loved ones snuggle up in the bright, frosty air. After the parade, the North Park Holiday Fair lasts into the afternoon and provides family fun that everyone will love.
Website: www.toylandparade.com

Mannheim Steamroller's Christmas Symphony
Date/Time: Tuesday, December 6th, 2011 at 7:30pm
Location: San Diego Civic Theatre
Price: $130+
Why should I do this? Mannheim Steamroller and members of the world-renowned Czech Philharmonic Orchestra have joined together in a new CD release for the holiday season. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Symphony features brand new Christmas recordings of the group's classic Christmas songs. You've heard their famous versions of popular Christmas songs before, but now you can see them performed amazingly in person here in San Diego.
Website: www.sandiegotheatres.org

The Nutcracker by City Ballet of San Diego
Date/Time: December 9th through 21st, 2011
Location: Spreckles Theatre, Downtown San Diego
Price: $29-59
Why should I do this? The first performance of Tchaikovsky's classic ballet was on December 18, 1892 at the Imperial Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. City Ballet of San Diego's first performance was in 1995, and the production has become an annual holiday tradition ever since. The San Diego Dance Alliance awarded City Ballet of San Diego's production as The Best Nutcracker in San Diego.
Website: www.cityballet.org

91X presents: Wrex the Halls
Date/Time: December 10th and 11th, 2011
Location: Valley View Casino Center (a.k.a. San Diego Sports Arena)
Price: $40-60 per day
Why should I do this? It's a two-day music festival of some of the most popular and talented bands on the radio today. This year's lineup includes Florence and the Machine, Death Cab for Cutie, Cage the Elephant, Everlast, Blink 182 and more. This may be your best chance to see some of the best bands from the USA in one place while you study English in San Diego.
Website: www.91x.com

Christmas Lights of Christmas Circle
Date/Time: December 11th through 26th, 2011 from 5:00pm to 10:00pm
Location: Whitney St./Mankato in Chula Vista
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? This entire neighborhood goes all-out to light up the night and bring the entire community together to celebrate the holidays. People from all over San Diego County drive to this neighborhood to see the beautifully decorated homes. Over 55 homes will be completely covered with outdoor Christmas lights and decorations. You're sure to say, "Oooooh, ahhhhh, ohhhh!" as you turn the corners to see what each individual home owner has done to make his or her home the best-decorated house on the block.
Website: www.sandiegotraveltips.com

Z90 Jingle Jam concert event
Date/Time: Wednesday, December 14th, 2011 at 7:30pm
Location: Valley View Casino Center (a.k.a. San Diego Sports Arena)
Price: $40+
Why should I do this? Like the 91X Wrex the Halls concert event, the Z90 Jingle Jam brings together some bangin' hip-hop acts that you hear on the radio and on the dance floor every weekend. This year's lineup includes Pit Bull, Whiz Khalifa and Flo Rida. Even more special guests and acts will be added to the list as well, so keep checking their website.
Website: www.z90.com

The Poinsettia Bowl
Date/Time: Wednesday, December 21st, 2011
Location: Qualcomm Stadium
Price: $45+
Why should I do this? A new tradition in college football bowl season, the Poinsettia Bowl frequently pits American football teams from United States military academies against other popular university teams. Last year the game featured San Diego State University against the US Naval Academy (and SDSU won!). Because the game frequently features teams from universities in the western United States, the crowds of fans are enthusiastic a lot of fun.
Website: www.poinsettiabowl.com

Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade
Date/Time: Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 10:00am
Location: Downtown San Diego
Price: $15-22
Why should I do this? The scenic, bayside streets of downtown San Diego will come alive with the 2011 Port of San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade. This exciting family event brings together world-class marching bands, magnificent floats, entertaining drill teams, and a procession of enormous balloons. Over 100,000 street-side spectators will enjoy the parade along with a nationwide television audience. All of this is done as a celebration and build-up for the nationally televised Holiday Bowl college football game later that night (see below).
Website: www.holidaybowl.com

The Holiday Bowl
Date/Time: Wednesday, December 28th, 2011 at 5:00pm
Location: Qualcomm Stadium
Price: $70+
Why should I do this? Some of the best teams in college football are invited to San Diego for a nationally televised football match that has been a tradition since 1978. San Diego swells with enthusiastic visitors and fans of the competing college teams. Attend this event to experience the enthusiasm and energy of college football, which some say is even better to see in person than professional NFL football games.
Website: www.holidaybowl.com

New Year's Eve - Big Night San Diego
Date/Time: Saturday, December 31st, 2011 from 9:00pm until 3:00am
Location: The Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Price: $109+
Why should I do this? This popular, annual New Year's Eve celebration features twelve themed party areas, six dance floors, great food, discounted hotel room rates (good luck getting a cab after midnight!), killer DJs and thousands of other fun people ringing in a hopeful and prosperous 2012 for all.
Website: www.bignightsandiego.com

SEE ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH EVENT CALENDAR

In addition to these community events, Connect English will host a variety of holiday activities for our students. Here's a video clip of one international student holiday activity [YouTube] from 2010. Join us to experience the joys of our friendly student community and excellent English classes. To learn more, contact Connect English today:

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY---->

Thursday, October 6, 2011

The 2011 Connect English Halloween Events Calendar

The Halloween festivities: MORE THAN TWO WEEKS OF FUN FOR YOU!

Fantastic lessons inside the classroom are an important part of Connect English programs, but social and cultural activities are important for our students as well. We take an active role in creating cultural activities for students so that they have friendly ways to use their language skills inside and outside of school.

If you are an international student looking for Halloween fun in San Diego, come to Connect English in the two weeks before Halloween to join our events and activities. No other English school in San Diego will offer as much fun as Connect English. This year, we have created another calendar of Halloween events for students of Connect English and their friends too:

Halloween Store Scavenger Hunt
Tuesday, October 18th at 1:30pm

The friendly people at Halloween Adventure Shops in Mission Valley have invited Connect English to visit their store to compete and answer questions about Halloween costumes and party supplies. Our students have a list of things to find out about Halloween by searching the store or by asking store employees. This activity also helps students come up with ideas for their own Halloween costumes this year. How much does a Captain America shield cost? Are Star Trek or Star Wars costumes more popular this year? Learn more at this fun event!

The Haunted Trail at Balboa Park
Wednesday, October 19th at 7:30pm

A truly scary and fun activity in San Diego, The Haunted Trail has earned a reputation as a chance for people to see Balboa Park in a new way. It is a mile-long trail through the trees near the Marston Point area of the park. This attraction is designed for adults, not children, so get ready for some real surprises.

[RELATED STORY: 10 Halloween Recommendations for International Students]

Scary Movie Day!
Tuesday, October 25th at 1:30pm

Connect English will show the scary movie Halloween H20 to our students. We will serve popcorn, pizza, sodas and many other scary surprises to our students. We will also give away Halloween gifts to some lucky students who attend this fun afternoon event. Feel your heart race as you watch Josh Hartnett and Jamie Lee Curtis try again to escape from the evil Michael Myers. Don't worry: Connect English will protect you!




The Connect English Crazy Pumpkin Carving Competition
Thursday, October 27th at 1:00pm

Connect English will provide the pumpkins and carving supplies. Our students will provide the smiles, laughs and creative ideas. We will give a prize for scariest pumpkin, funniest pumpkin, and most artistic pumpkin. Watch this video of Connect English TOEFL teacher Nick Sacco teaching his students to carve pumpkins.

The Haunted School @ Connect English
Monday, October 31st at 10:15am

On October 31st, some ghosts plan to take control of part of Connect English. The adventurous students and teachers will explore this haunted part of our school. Beware of ghosts, goblins, grammar, homework, and other things that scare international students!

Halloween PARTY at Connect English
Monday, October 31st at 12:00pm

Dress up in a costume and get ready for a lot of fun at the best English school in San Diego! We will have a costume contest, a haunted portion of the school, music and other games for everyone. Bring your favorite snack or drink and get ready to have soooooo much fun. Invite your friends as well! Everyone is welcome to celebrate with us!

For more information about Halloween fun all around San Diego, take a look at our recent article full of Halloween recommendations for international students in San Diego. Don't miss all of this fun! Make sure you're prepared and excited for all of these good times!

Connect English offers high-quality English and TOEFL classes at an affordable price, but there is so much more. An education at Connect English is more than just classes. It is a life experience that you will never forget. To see photos and more information, go to the Connect English Facebook page.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN:
ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Halloween in San Diego: 10 Recommendations for International Students

By TOEFL Nick

San Diego is the best Halloween city in the United States. The perfect October weather allows everyone to celebrate both indoors and outdoors while our friends in Northern California and on the East Coast are already starting to freeze as winter begins to arrive in those other places.

I've been teaching English and TOEFL to international students for years in San Diego, living in San Diego even longer, and celebrating Halloween even longer than that. Over this time I've learned some valuable lessons about how to make sure that everyone is aware of super-fun and safe Halloween events for international students. As always, I want to make sure that San Diego International Students have the knowledge to enjoy this fantastic cultural event in the USA. Here are my ten Halloween recommendations for you and your friends this year:


1. Wear a costume. Really.

Dressing up in a funny costume may seem embarrassing at first, but I have surveyed hundreds of students in my time as a teacher. Students who wear costumes have a lot of fun and they tell all of their friends back home about all of the Halloween good times they experienced. Students who don't wear costumes frequently regret it after Halloween is over. Believe me. Costumes don't have to cost a lot of money and don't have to be complicated. There are a lot of options that are not embarrassing at all, but are still a lot of fun. For example, a baseball player could be a great costume that's not embarrassing, not complicated, not expensive, and totally comfortable. Here's a good little list of costume shops and Halloween stores in San Diego.

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Halloween Store Scavenger Hunt for Connect English Students]



2. Decide early which events you'd like to visit.

Don't wait until Halloween weekend to make your plan. There are many, many events happening around town. One of my biggest regrets of Halloweens past is having to argue with my friends on Halloween night about which event will be better. It's much smarter to decide a few days before the weekend. Here is a 2011 San Diego Halloween events list for international students and for locals:

Through October - The Haunted Trail, The Haunted Hotel & The Scream Zone

Sept. 15th to Nov. 6th - The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Balboa Park)

Date TBD - Heaven & Hell Halloween Music and Costume Festival (Del Mar Fairgrounds)

Date TBD - Trick-or-Treat on India Street in Little Italy

Friday, Oct. 28th - Playboy’s Mansion Madness at Ivy Nightclub

Saturday, Oct. 29th - Halloween 2011 at the Hardrock Hotel (Downtown)

Saturday, Oct. 29th - Haunted Harbor Cruise

Saturday, Oct. 29th - Monster Bash (Downtown)

Saturday, Oct. 29th - Halloween Party at On Broadway San Diego

Monday, Oct. 31st - Halloween @ The Prado (Balboa Park)

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Halloween Party 2010 at Connect English]

Monday, Oct. 31st - Fetish Halloween with Too Short at FLUXX Nightclub


3. House parties are good, but officially sanctioned events are safer and are still a lot of fun.

Organized events around town have security staff and are properly planned so that they can accommodate large numbers of people. If you go to a house party, be prepared for long bathroom lines and the possibility of the police arriving and telling everyone to leave. Most organized events are pretty centrally located, too. This means that they're easy to reach by public transit, and taxis are easier to find afterward.



4. Organize your transportation plans early.

Make sure you have a designated driver or a bus/trolley/taxi plan. Do not drink and drive (ever!). There are so many people walking around town, and so many police. Don't take your chances. It's too easy to hurt yourself, your friends, or even strangers if you decide to drink and drive. There are plenty of safe ways to get around on Halloween if you plan just a little bit. Talk with your friends and decide who will be the sober driver, or plan with them to use San Diego MTS services to reach your destination. Also, research the schedules of buses and trolleys because the schedule changes after midnight on most days for many routes. Many parties in Downtown San Diego offer special admission deals that include discounted hotel rooms nearby so that you don't have to worry about returning to your house after their Halloween party.



5. Keep a few taxi service telephone numbers in your phone.

Taxi companies are very busy over Halloween weekend. Frequently it will take more than an hour to arrange for a pick-up. If you have three or four numbers saved in your phone, you'll be able to get home easily.

Here are some taxi company phone numbers that you can program into your phone now:

Orange Cab - (619) 223-5555
USA Cab - (619) 231-1144
Yellow Cab - (619) 444-4444
San Diego Cab - (619) 226-8294



6. Don't wear costumes with masks.

Do you like to eat? Do you like to drink? Do you like to talk? Do you like to see? Do you like to breathe? Imagine how difficult all of these things are when you have a mask covering your face. It's especially sad when the mask really completes the costume, but the person has to keep the mask pulled up over the top of their head most of the time so that they can breathe. You may find some excellent-looking masks at the Halloween store, but believe me...you'll regret choosing them.



7. Don't choose a costume that has big fake props.

Most people spend their Halloween walking, dancing, giving high-fives and sometimes holding beverages. All of these things are a lot harder to do when you have to carry around a fake knife, a rubber chicken, a fruit basket, or some big, heavy parts of your costume. Anything that makes it difficult to walk or stand is also a bad idea. Here is one good example of a costume that is probably not very smart. Can you see why? And can you imagine walking around with all this stuff all night? Forget it.



8. Wear costumes with wigs, makeup, funny hats, pockets, etc. instead.

All of these things make your Halloween much more fun and manageable than if you wear a bad costume with a mask or fake weapons and toys that you have to carry around all weekend (#s 6 and 7 above). A purse or a backpack is always a great idea for you or one of your friends to have as well. This way you can keep your wallet, your ID, your credit or debit cards, your camera (see #9 below) and your cell phone secure. Can you imagine trying to carry all of those things around while wearing this tiny costume? Be prepared for event security guards to search your purse or backpack, though. Remember, Halloween is fun because you can talk and walk and laugh with good people. If your costume makes these things difficult, you will not have as much fun. Wear a costume that is light and flexible, not heavy and cumbersome.



9. Bring a camera, of course!

You are definitely going to want to take pictures of the events you'll attend, the costumes you'll see, the people you'll meet, and the hilarious things you and your friends will do. Want to see some pictures of regular people having tons of fun on Halloween? Here is a website full of Halloween photo albums from all around San Diego. Imagine how jealous your friends back home will be when they see how fantastic your experience in San Diego has been, and the culture that you have experienced as you learn English. You will want to remember Halloween in San Diego forever.



10. Carve pumpkins!

If you have the chance to carve pumpkins, do it! You'll have a lot of fun. Pumpkins can be bought at your local Vons, Ralphs or Albertsons any time in the month of October. Connect English will have a pumpkin carving event/contest later this month, so keep your eyes open. You will never forget it!

Last year's pumpkin-carving day at Connect English [YouTube] was a fresh and educational experience for all of our students.

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Carving Pumpkins at Connect English]





Do you have more advice for San Diego international students this Halloween? Please write a comment below. With your recommendations, we can make sure that even more people have as much fun on Halloween as I have had in my life. Wow, I'm getting excited!

Pass this information along to your friends. It's the goal of Connect English for all international students to have a fun, memorable and safe Halloween in San Diego.

Are you looking for a school that gives you the complete experience in San Diego? Connect English Language Institute is more than just a basic language school. Our events and activities help students explore and enjoy San Diego, and our special services assure that your education investment will help you improve your English. When you want a school that does more but costs less, contact Connect English.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN:
ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Sunday, August 21, 2011

Add Excellent Classes at Connect English and Still Save a Lot of Money

As summer continues in San Diego, many students who arrived in June and July are ready for better classes and better prices. Many students begin their English studies in San Diego at expensive Downtown or La Jolla schools with inexperienced teachers. Smart students quickly see that there are better options for their education in the USA. These students usually find Connect English and transfer to our courses, which are more constructive and less costly.

Did you spend $1000 or more per month for your English classes this summer? Why? Now that you are in the USA, and you are comfortable living in San Diego, you can select a school that offers high-quality instruction and affordable prices. Connect English has experienced English teachers, excellent San Diego activities and complete services that you need in order to continue improving your English in your favorite city.

Here are some real examples of real students who now study at Connect English:

  • Fabiana spent months at one of the expensive downtown English schools. As she learned more about San Diego, she saw that there are other excellent education options that don't cost as much but still offer fantastic TOEFL courses and intensive English courses. She transferred in order to join Connect English TOEFL programs and has been able to extend her studies because Connect English courses cost so much less than most other language schools in San Diego.

  • Moon studied at a school in San Diego that cost more than $1300.00 per month. When he transferred to Connect English this summer, he enrolled in our English MAX programs and then added Vocabulary Maximizer courses for extra hours each week. Even with all of the extras, he was able to save more than $800.00 per month in our courses.

  • [RELATED STORY: Discussion Courses Make a Difference]

  • Abdullah studied at a school that cost more than $1200 per month this summer, and he was unhappy with the level of quality in his program. In July he decided to find a new English school in San Diego. He joined Connect English programs and added every possible course option (speaking classes, private lessons, Vocabulary Maximizer and after-school activities), and was still able to save hundreds of dollars per month.

  • Last summer, Sung Kyung decided to leave his downtown English school because he was unhappy with their TOEFL program and with how much he had to spend each month. He decided to transfer to Connect English TOEFL programs and he also added on supplemental writing courses. He was able to keep $400 per month in his pocket for rent and entertainment in San Diego. After four months of study, he passed his TOEFL and was accepted to an American university for automotive design.

  • [RELATED STORY: S.K. Gets a Scholarship to the University of His Dreams]

In summary, great education options in San Diego don't have to be expensive. You can afford to continue your studies in America's Finest City if you understand your options. With Connect English, you can even add more study hours and better course options (like Vocabulary Maximizer class, speaking and conversation groups, private lessons and focused writing courses) without breaking your bank account. Join all of the other students who have made the change.

To learn more, contact Connect English today. Our team is here to help you keep improving your language skills without wasting your money.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Thursday, June 9, 2011

New Afternoon English Class Options Start in the Summer!

Summer brings some good new options to Connect English students. Our language school in San Diego already offers superb intensive English courses in the mornings, high-quality tutoring and private lesson options in the afternoons, and exciting activities after classes each week. Now we can offer even more class schedule options to our students. Starting on July 5th, Connect English students can take classes from noon until 4:30pm with the addition of afternoon core classes.

Afternoon core classes with the best English teachers in San Diego give students the chance to keep improving their grammar, vocabulary, speaking and writing skills as they do in the morning already. Now, though, students can surf in the morning, go to the gym, enjoy San Diego, eat a tasty breakfast, and then come to their classes. It is an excellent way for students to enjoy their summer in San Diego.

[RELATED STORY: San Diego's Best Summer Events]

Want another good reason to join afternoon classes that start on July 5th? Well, the promotional price is fantastic! Students will pay only $650 for the complete eight-week session of classes, and four-week sessions will be available as well. You can apply for afternoon classes right here if you want to.

Connect English students are already signing up to join our afternoon English classes in San Diego. You can now sign up too. Come to the English school in San Diego that everyone is excited to join. Connect English welcomes you.

Contact Connect English today. Our team is here to help you.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Becas MEC students are coming to Connect English in 2011!


Many countries offer scholarship programs for young adults to come to the USA and learn English. Some of the coolest scholarships come from Saudi Arabia, with their SACM programs, and also from Spain, with their Becas MEC programs.

In the Summer of 2011, Connect English offers perfect programs for students using the Becas MEC. If your beca requires a 15-hour program, a 20-hour program, or even a 25-hour program, Connect English can help you. We offer a variety of intensive English programs with experienced, energetic instructors.

In addition to the excellent English programs at Connect English, we provide regular activities for our students in San Diego to enjoy. San Diego Padres baseball games, hiking in the hills of San Diego, soccer in Balboa Park, museum tours, surfing, paintball, kayaking, shopping and many more activities are offered each week.

Many Becas MEC students from Spain have already signed up for programs in the summer of 2011 at Connect English. In June, July and August they will join our other students from Brazil, Japan, Turkey, France, Hungary, Korea, Thailand, Somalia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Panama, Iraq, Mexico, Argentina and many other countries. If you are searching for the best English schools in San Diego, then today is your lucky day! Reserve your educational experience in San Diego now!

To see more of Connect English, visit our page on Facebook for photos, information, events, grammar quizzes and a lot of fun.

If you are ready to sign up for programs at the language school in San Diego that offers excellent instruction and the most exciting after-school activities, contact Connect English today. Our team is here to help you.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Friday, May 20, 2011

Public Transportation for International Students - The Easy Way

Do you think the public transportation system (bus, trolley) in San Diego is better than your hometown's system? San Diego is a unique city in terms of transportation. American citizens use their cars a lot, but our public transportation system in San Diego is actually quite efficient. The trolleys are on time, buses are spacious and functional, and our freeway system usually flows smoothly. Have you noticed this too?

The best language schools in San Diego need to be near public transportation because international students don't usually have cars at first. That's why Connect English was built directly next to a major San Diego trolley and bus station, and right by three of the major freeways of San Diego.

Students at Connect English use the San Diego public transportation system for so many things. Here are some of the best examples of how San Diego MTS is connecting English students to their goals:

  • Next week our students will use the trolley to go to Petco Park for a San Diego Padres baseball game. Parking at the stadium is usually difficult and/or expensive, but the trolley solves all of those problems.

  • Summer program students use the green line trolley and then bus 8 or 9 to reach Mission Beach for surf lessons after their classes finish each day. When the surf lessons are over each day, the students choose from a number of route options to take them back to their homestays in San Diego.

    [RELATED STORY: Surfing Spaniards]

  • For students who live in El Cajon, English schools in San Diego are usually difficult to reach. With San Diego transportation systems, it becomes pretty easy for students to reach Connect English, though. The green line trolley goes directly through the whole city of El Cajon and then stops just 20 meters from our Mission Valley English school location.

  • Students who have cars love Connect English too. The maximum drive time to Connect English on the freeways from almost anywhere in San Diego is 20 minutes. This is because the 8 freeway, the 15 freeway and the 805 freeway pass very close to Connect English. Connect English is also one of the only English schools in San Diego that has abundant free parking for our students. Bonus!


In addition to these transportation options, Connect English staff members are here to answer students' questions about bus schedules, trolley lines and driving directions. We also help students purchase their transit passes so that they can ride the bus and trolley an unlimited number of times each month. When Connect English students need help or have questions, we are here to support them.


When you want a school that does more but costs less, contact Connect English.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Discussion Classes Make a Difference for Connect Students

English schools in San Diego frequently offer students only what their school managers decide to offer. Those schools just want to give classes that fit their big-company idea. Connect English does things differently, though. We are able to make programs that fit students' immediate needs. Here's an example: Students at Connect English improve their grammar, vocabulary, listening and speaking every day, of course. Through talking to students and through grading their final exams, though, teachers noticed that even more speaking opportunities would be helpful for many people. This is why Connect English now offers small-group conversation classes. These classes of only three to five students help students gain confidence and speaking accuracy in a comfortable environment, with no stress and with clear guidance.

In each class, a Connect English teacher helps students determine a subject that the group can discuss. For the rest of the class, the teacher asks each student questions to give them opportunities to explain their ideas, opinions and experiences, and also to ask each other questions that will continue the discussion. Students tell and learn interesting stories about their classmates, and in doing so, they learn new vocabulary and ways to explain those stories. This improvement in speaking skills helps students reach their goals of fluency and confidence, and eventually to open doors to great opportunities for themselves.

[RELATED ARTICLE: Homework Club at Connect English]

There is one language school in San Diego that pays attention to what students need and then creates ways for students to keep getting better every day. Connect English in Mission Valley is that school.

Do you want a complete educational experience in San Diego? Connect English Language Institute is more than just a basic language school. Our events and activities help students explore and enjoy San Diego, and our special services assure that your education investment will help you improve your English.

When you want a school that does more but costs less, contact Connect English.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN:
ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Monday, March 28, 2011

Yeoul Succeeds in the College Connection Program

Connect English wants the best students. We want students who are eager to learn and are ready to take on challenges to improve themselves. For those students, we have unique programs and options that no other language school in San Diego will offer to their students. Programs like our Academic Support Center and Homework Club give international students in San Diego many different ways to keep growing and getting better with their language skills. Private lessons are offered to students who want specific help with areas of their English. Conversation groups are available for students who want to improve their spoken fluency.

Four our advanced students, there is an even more exciting program: College Connection. With this option, students can attend a real, accredited university, not a fake, unaccredited university that can't give you transferable credit. It is the option that Yeoul, an advanced student at Connect English, decided to use. Here is an interview with Yeoul about her experience in the College Connection program through Connect English.


How did you become interested in the College Connection program and SDSU?

I wanted to have a lot of interactions with American students and get the sneak peek of college life in America. I also wanted to got me into the challenge and take the step to the next level. I was looking up the program and my friend Soo Yeon suggested me I meet Adam and talk about College Connection program at Connect English. I lived close to SDSU and it was the perfect place to start the program since I knew my way around there and available school facilities. Connect English was just a trolley stop away from SDSU. I could easily go to school from Connect English.

[RELATED STORY: CONNECT ENGLISH & PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION]

What were your first impressions of the program?

I thought this program was a really great opportunity for people who just wanted to take one or two classes that they were interested in. I didn't have to be a full-time student at SDSU. The process was incredibly simple and the price was reasonable. In general, the international students pay more to the university. The good thing about this program was it was the same price as what other American students would pay. ($591 for the 3 credits for the whole semester!!!)

Also, I could have the same benefits as the regular students would have. Signing up for classes seemed to be really easy and there were a lot of choices in choosing classes that I wanted. I couldn't believe this kind of program even existed. I was fairly surprised to get to know about this program. I was worried "what if this class was over my head?" But after getting all the information from Adam, I decided to give it a shot!!


How did your first day in your SDSU class work out?

I brought the open university paper with me the first day in my SDSU class. After class, I went up to talk to the professor and I had butterflies in my stomach. However, there were a lot of American students doing this open university program. I was really surprised to see so many of them. People lined up to get professor's signature and the professor was well aware of this program and was generous to the students. It was a breeze after all. There was nothing to worry about. All I needed to do was pay for my class ($591 for the semester including access to library) and there were also a lot of American people lined up for the open university program at the extended studies building.

Did you enjoy your class at SDSU?

I enjoyed it a lot. I took contemporary media class and it was interesting to learn about current issues and American broadcasting system and history of media. For the first time, I used clicker in the class and it was such fun activities as well. I had about 6-7 guest speakers that semester and communicated with fellow classmates. I loved my class at SDSU. There were a lot of reading. At first, there were so many vocabulary that I was not familiar with but once I got used to it, studying was getting better and better. I would have to say that I learned a lot.

What were you doing at Connect English in the mornings while you were taking your class at SDSU?

I took advanced English classes with Meredith and optional classes with Jill. The teachers at Connect English were willing to help me with any assignments I had and anything that I needed for the class. I didn't have to worry too much about my study and I could ask any questions I had regarding my class at SDSU. The teachers always asked me about how my class at SDSU went.

What was your final grade in the SDSU class?

A

What would you say to students who are thinking about this option in their own futures?

This is a great opportunity for students who want to experience college life in the U.S.! It's really easy to enroll the course and you have a lot of choices in choosing the class that you want !!
And you can have the same benefit as the regular students at SDSU. It's a great opportunity that you wouldn't want to miss!! I highly recommend you this program and I believe it would take you to the next level for your futures. It was a really great experience for me. If you want something more than just studying English and think about going to the university in America in the future, do not hesitate to choose this great program. It has great benefits and there are great teachers at Connect English to help you out!


Students like Yeoul are the reason why Connect English is the best English school in San Diego. She was motivated to learn a lot, and Connect English offered the program options that helped her learn. When you are deciding where to study English in San Diego, remember that good language schools are supposed to offer great options to their students. Connect English offers programs that help you increase your English vocabulary, improve your spoken fluency, earn transferable college credits, pass the TOEFL in San Diego and build the education and skills that will last a lifetime.


To learn more, contact Connect English today:

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN: ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com

READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->