Pictured here are students from Howard Community College’s Theatre Department during a rehearsal for 'Wonder of the World.'

A major benefit of studying in the U.S. is the opportunity to enroll in general education courses. These courses contribute toward the credits needed to complete your degree, while also allowing you to explore topics outside of your major area of study. If you’re enrolled in an intensive English program that offers the opportunity to enroll in a bridge class at the host institution, you, too, can take advantage of these courses to enrich your experience of studying in the U.S.

General education courses can range from dance to psychology, so how do you choose? An often overlooked but valuable class is … acting! An acting class can help you succeed whether your goal is to be an engineer or go into business. Improve your pronunciation and practice your public speaking skills, as well as:

• Learn to project (speak louder) so that you are easier to understand and appear more confident
• Learn American vocabulary 
• Observe and practice body language 
• Interact with students in a different way than in any of your other classes 
• Make friends

Give an acting class a chance! And, who knows, maybe you will be the next Zac Efron or Selena Gomez!

Visit the English Language Center at Howard Community College website to learn more about an intensive English program that provides you with the opportunity to take an acting class while learning the English language.