Research Interview
1) What is your name?
Mr. Luis Sanchez
2) What is your title?
I am the Director of English Language at Florida International Universities ELI Program.
I am also the Professor of English Grammar and University Bridge Course.
3) How long have you been working with the program?
Director of the program since 1991, has been teaching at the program since 1978
4) Have you seen an apprehensive behavior with students that have entered the program?
Yes, some students begin at the program with an apprehensive attitude. But this is very
temporary. In all of the courses, professors help the students become more vocal and adjust to
the university student life.
5) Would you say that their attitude has changed over the time period of the program?
Yes, students become more vocal and adjust to the culture of speaking out in class.
6) Do many students decide to enter FIU as a student?
15 to 20 percent of the students do transfer to FIU after completing the program.
7) Is this program funded by the state through FIU? Where does the funding come from?
Non credit program, no state funding, it is a program for students who have support
8) Are there any bridging programs that allow international students to be guided into FIU
that you know of?
Yes, it is called the Bridge Program. Students take level 7 and 8 courses (from a 1-8 scale), which
includes courses on how to construct PowerPoint presentations, use advanced vocabulary and
grammar, use critical thinking methods, and essay writing techniques.
9) Of the entrants in the program, have you ever experienced difficulties with students
who are from Asia in respect to cultural adjustment and communication issues?
The students who are initially accepted in the program have a 500 or higher on the TOFEL exam.
Generally, these students have enough capabilities to communicate moderately to attend
courses and understand content.
10) What programs are available to student for a complete transition?
There is an Acculturation, language exchange program that includes parties, camping, bowling
an other social activities for our ENL students only. Admissions, graduate admissions, and
application process assistance are all offered to our students. There is also a local student
language exchange program for students who are studying modern languages at FIU. Most of
these students become friend with the international student and helps the student become
more acclimated to the University environment.
11) Does your program assist with general acclimation to the program as far as paperwork,
housing, and acquisition of books and supplies?
Yes, in the beginning of the program we walk the students through all procedures. We
acquaint them with all of the departments that they will need to be in touch with, we arrange
their housing, and we arrange a schedule in which the student can be accompanied by a
member of the International English staff to help them acquire anything they may need. Also,
we bring staff from the undergraduate admissions and graduate admissions department to give
lectures on what is needed to enter these divisions of the university and what they will be able
to utilize upon entrance to the university.