Mario D.

Mario D.
Home Country:
Colombia

What did you like most about the ELP?

The people. Everybody at ELP is always kind and willing to help you, not only with the language, but also with the city, academics and culture issues. Instructors are so professional and I could feel the passion they have for teaching. Campus is also one of the most interesting aspects, including the old and historical buildings, modern facilities for the community, not just for students -- this last part was one of the best things I took from Penn.

What did you like most about Philadelphia?

Openness of people to diversity. I found so much variety in cultures, religions, lifestyles, etc. Also I was able to do different activities in my free time, like visiting the museums and historical places, practicing different sports like kayaking in the Schuylkill River, and partying at exciting clubs. Moreover, it is very easy to take a trip to Atlantic City, NYC, Washington and Boston.

What do you tell friends in your home country about the ELP?

That it was one of my best experiences in life, and also that I improved my English.

How did your program at the ELP help you?

It gave me confidence and plenty of new reasons to love the language even more.

What have you been doing since you left the ELP?

I completed my master's degree in Business, and I am working for a financial company helping small and medium enterprises to raise money for working capital.

What advice would you give to students currently at ELP?

To enjoy every minute with classes, people and other activities, and to have many groups of friends from all over the world, including Americans.

Anything else you want to share about your experience?

I really admire the way Penn is committed to the community, and offers so many programs and ways to develop skills for students in different fields besides academics, like social, environmental and self-development.