Speaking
Conversation
This is the most natural way of learning English - talking with
other people. The more time you spend doing this, the better
your English will get and the easier it will be to speak in
seminars and presentations. It will also help you understand
better in lectures. It's worth investing time and effort to
meet people and make some friends who do not speak your
language.
You can meet and practise with other International students from
around the world. Here are some ways to meet
students from other countries:
- Spend some relaxation time in the international Sitting Room
(Holgate 139). The best time is probably morning break
(10.45-11.15).
- Join Global Friends - you can
do this through the Students' Union
- Join in the International programme of trips
& activities. For details, watch the plasma screens
around the campus; see the noticeboards at
International Reception (Holgate, first floor).
You may also be able to meet English
people though your study programme. Two other ways to meet
English people are (a) by getting a job and (b) by joining a club
or society. Clubs are very popular with English people.
If you like photography, for example, join a photographic
society. If you like cinema, join a film club. Simply
google "photographic society york" or "film club york". To
get help finding a job (if your visa permits), visit Careers Advice
(in the Phoenix Centre, near the Students' Union).
Speaking in Seminars
Giving Presentations
Written by Charlie Martineau