“This program has ignited my confidence...The skills I’ve learned will help me write persuasively, speak in court, and negotiate effectively. Today, I feel ready to step into the next chapter of my life.” - Edinair Damasio Barbosa, ELP student
When Edinair Damasio Barbosa came to Canada from Brazil five years ago, she was eager to continue her career as a lawyer. However, on top of the challenges associated with moving to a new country, Edi faced professional barriers. “I had been a lawyer for ten years when I immigrated to Canada, and wanted to practice law in Toronto. As a step towards earning my Ontario license, I decided to pursue the Global Professional Master of Laws (GPLLM) at U of T, which required obtaining a top mark in a program that satisfies the university’s language proficiency requirement (Academic English-Advanced Level 60),” recalls Edi. “I tried a couple English classes, and felt really frustrated. I was learning the basics of language, but nothing about culture or true communication. It was a means to pass a test, not a real immersion into the English language.”
When Edi found the Academic English Program in our School of Continuing Studies’ English Language Program (ELP), she immediately felt at ease. “From the very first day, it was clear we were learning how to communicate effectively, not just speak English. The online learning experience was great; our instructor used various teaching tools such as videos, slides, and podcasts to help us learn. She encouraged classroom discussions, group work, and online socializing, which allowed us to practice our social and speaking skills,” reflects Edi. “My classmates were from all over the globe, which enhanced the learning experience as we bonded and grew from one another’s experiences. We learned about effective English communication, such as how to write persuasively and clearly, summarize information, and even write effective and concise emails. My husband—who is Canadian and a native English speaker—was amazed at the skills I was gaining. He even said ‘oh my gosh, I can’t even write this way!’”
Edi felt supported both by her instructor, and the administrative team at ELP. “My instructor was so supportive, like a mother almost. She was professional, knowledgeable, and all learners got 1-1 time with her each week to work on specific skills,” says Edi. “The ELP team also contributed to the learning process by providing support and encouragement throughout the program. I am grateful; they played an integral role in my successful completion of the class. This experience wasn’t about passing a test; it was about learning how to thrive in an English-speaking setting. These are skills I will use daily in my educational and work experiences.”
Having completed the Academic English Program in April 2021, Edi has been accepted into the GPLLM program, and is excited to move her career forward. “This program has ignited my confidence. Now, I am so excited to write in English, I can’t stop! The skills I’ve learned will help me write persuasively, speak in court, and negotiate effectively,” smiles Edi. “Today, I feel ready to step into the next chapter of my life.”