Korean Exchange Students
January 17, 2008CONTACT:
Kathy Miller, 661/654-2456, kmiller26@csub.edu or
Michele Newel, 661/654-2720, mnewell1@csub.edu
Korean exchange students learning language, culture at CSUB
Thirty-four students from Bakersfield's sister city, Bucheon, South Korea, are improving their language skills and experiencing American culture during a four-week intensive program at California State University, Bakersfield.
The students, aged 13-16, have basic to intermediate English language skills and are living with local families while attending daily classes at the Intensive English Language Center (IELC). The program includes hands-on activities, academic lessons and field trips.
"We hope this will be the first of many international and cross cultural experiences for students in our sister cities," said Karen Hurley, director of IELC. "The students are here to improve their English skills and better understand the American culture. They work daily to achieve those goals."
Some of the lessons have focused on grammar, vocabulary, writing, American idioms and slang, and American and Korean cultural differences. Students have practiced their English skills by learning to give speeches and interviewing university staff and students.
Day trips allow the students to visit local schools, Hearst Castle, the Getty Art Museum, and, of course, Disneyland.
"The students are learning a great deal," Hurley added. "When they are ready for university, we hope they'll come back and attend CSUB."
The students will be at CSUB through Feb. 1. For additional information, contact Hurley at 654-3023.
ACTIVITIES OF NOTE:
- January 17-18, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Students will visit Rosedale Middle School, 12463 Rosedale Highway, and partner with an American student for the day.
- - January 23, 1-3 p.m.: Students will be learning how the Gold Rush influenced California's history and learning to pan for gold at the CSUB campus, Modular East I, room 211.