For many people, studying English is a way to compete in the global job market. English is considered the "language of business". So much so that many companies around the world require their employees to speak English so their company can have a better chance at contracts, partnerships, etc. In these economic times, any edge on your fellow competitors is worth pursuing.

So, why is learning English in your native country not enough? There are many reasons why you should pursue English in a native setting. You are more likely to master the language and most importantly you will learn the culture. Learning Cultural cues enables you to read the situation better and therefore make better decisions for your company and/or employer.

Typically, when studying English in your home country, you are not forced to use the language on a continuous basis. Once you leave the classroom, there is no incentive to use the language. We have a saying here in the USA, "Use it or lose it!" What this means is: if you go home and do not practice the new skills, you will not retain the information.

While studying in the USA, you have the opportunity to completely immerse yourself, not only in the language, but also in the culture. Learning the culture can help you connect better with English speaking people.

Tips for Better Immersion:

• Make Native English speaking friends – It is easy to surround yourself with people from your homeland, but then you rob yourself of a great opportunity. Find a way to balance having both and you will help round out your education.
• Join a club or organization – Whether it is an outdoor group going skiing or kayaking or a theater club. There are many different groups from which to choose.
• Volunteer – Not only will you strengthen your English skills, but you will also help others in need and feel a better sense of accomplishment and belonging. Volunteering has shown to strengthen social bonds between people.
• Make Mistakes – Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Even most native English speakers do not speak the language perfectly. When you make a mistake, you learn how to correct it and thus reinforce the concept and will remember it next time.

The basic concept here is: get out and socialize with native English speakers. While living and studying in the USA, you will have no better opportunity to immerse yourself. Don't be afraid to make friends. The skills you learn in the USA while interacting with native English speakers will, not only reinforce the language, but give you the skills to easily create partnerships with English speakers in the future that are more productive.

This article is submitted by:

Ms. Brandie Canaday-Yalniz