Studying English at Framingham State University in Massachusetts

Mimi Puig Marti from Barcelona, Spain, is improving her English at FSU’s English Language Programs.

Where are you from and why did you decide to study English in the USA? 

I am from Barcelona, Spain. I have a bachelor’s degree in law before I came to the U.S. I wanted to have the experience of studying English at an American university, improve my English pronunciation, and immerse myself in a new culture. English is essential for my professional future, and it will open many doors.

Why did you choose to study at Framingham State University English Language Programs (ELP)? 

Framingham State University (FSU) was recommended to me as a university that is very focused on teaching English to non-native English speakers. On top of that, it offers a very high-quality and complete English program. It is also very accessible from where I live.

Have you noticed that your English has improved? 

My English has improved a lot. What has also helped me a lot is that I have gained confidence. In this school, the education is very personalized and has helped me to gain confidence in myself and the desire to study. I have to confess that I didn’t like learning English at all. But the teachers at FSU help you, guide you, push you to gain confidence in yourself, and help you when you make mistakes.

How is your success in English helping you to achieve your goals? 

Thanks to the English skills that I have acquired, I have been accepted to study for a master's degree in Europe next school year. I’ll get to spend one semester in France and one semester in Italy!

Have you had any other special experiences at Framingham State University that you’d like to share? 

Thanks to my classmates and their support, my English has improved a lot. It’s been like having a team in my class. They are like my family. They have helped me to get to a comfort zone so that I can be confident with my English. Coming to class has become something I enjoy doing instead of something I have to do.

Would you recommend FSU to other students? 

Yes, I recommend it every time I meet somebody looking for English classes. Coming here is like coming home. It is someplace I feel safe. You receive quality education, there is an awesome student ambience, and great instructors ready to help you not only in class but also outside of class. For example, they wrote recommendation letters for the universities I was applying to for a master’s degree, or even answering my questions on Christmas with some information I needed. I love them so much.

Did you face struggles leaving home, family, and friends? If so, how did you handle it?

I am a very good student and I take my studies very seriously. So, with the help of my instructors, the personalized education, and the fact that the number of students per class is not big helped me to overcome any struggles. In the end, I will recommend the following if you are struggling: acknowledge and identify the problem; allow yourself to be helped by instructors, classmates, and friends and everything will flow smoothly for you. It’s about dedication and being consistent. You’re in good hands when you’re here so everything should work out good for you.

Have you traveled during your time in the U.S.? What are some favorite places you’ve visited?

I have traveled quite a bit. I have been to Miami, the Grand Canyon, Arizona, Utah’s national parks, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, South Carolina, New York, Georgia, Washington, and Punta Cana.

What is one of your favorite memories from your time as a student?

The good vibes with the teachers. I not only talk to them during class, I keep in contact with them on social media. We talk about places to visit and they make good restaurant recommendations. They are like friends to me. They enrich my life and when you study here you see that it isn’t just about opening doors inside, but also outside. When I finish my studies at the FSU English Program, I’m sure we’ll keep in touch.

Could you describe your experiences in three words? 

Sure. A unique opportunity. It’s a privilege. It is fun.

What would you tell students who are considering studying in the USA?

It is a very good experience that will make you grow, become independent, and get to know yourself. It will open your mind, change the way you think, and will enrich you culturally because you will be immersing yourself in a new culture and meeting people from abroad. It is getting out of your comfort zone and helps you become independent. 

Finally, getting to know other people’s backgrounds and objectives gives you a lot of strength. When you know people’s stories and what they have done, you also want to do more. Don’t hesitate to come here. You can have a beautiful experience, too!