Your Friend On Campus or What Do I Say?

 Gen had been on his USA college campus for two terms. Gen arrived in August and attended the Interntional Student Orientation. He got setteled into the International House on campus with another international student roomate and began attending classes.

During the school year Gen did well in his subjects.  He attended school functions especially the basketball games at home which he really enjoyed. Gen's school is a small private college which takes great pride in their basketball team.

With his English improving Gen was able to volunteer to tutor at the math center and made a few friends there.

Now, however,  summer has arrived and the new friends Gen has made have left campus. Gen has remained on campus to take summer school courses which will enable him to graduate according to his plan.  Still with his friends gone Gen felt particularly lonely.

One morning while Gen was on his way to class a family, touring the campus, asked him for directions. Despite feeling a little awkward Gen provided the family with the directions they were seeking.  They thanked him and went on to their destination on campus.

Gen was privately surprised that he could be appreciated for the help he provided in English.  Then he hit on a plan.  After class he went back to his room and got one of his basic English guide books. It was a simple conversational lesson book.  The guide contains simple conversations like "Hello."How are you?  What is your name? is intended to provide basic English excercise.

Gen took his English guide book and walk around campus looking for some one who might help him with his English. His technique was simple. He walked up to another student, one he did not know and said, Do you have time to help me with my English?  When he found some one, which he did, he showed them his book and asked them to read through it with him.

It worked. Since he began using this method Gen has made several friends who are willing to get together with him to practice his English further.

If you are an International student who feels alone on your campus you might consider using Gen 's method. It worked for him. It may work for your.  Remember asking for help can be really helpful.

If you are wondering , " What do I say?" , it's simple.  Just say, " Could you help me with my English? " 

Good Luck!