Pitt’s English Language Institute Hosts Nov. 14 Open House of New Facility

PITTSBURGH—The University of Pittsburgh English Language Institute—which offers international students and members of the community a chance to improve their English for academic, professional, or personal reasons—is hosting a public Open House 5-7 p.m. Nov. 14 at its new location in Room M13 of the Parkvale Building, 200 Meyran Ave., Oakland. 

Previously, the institute’s offices and classrooms were separated by 28 floors in Pitt’s Cathedral of Learning. Now, the new cohesive facility features office space; classrooms equipped with laptops, Blu-ray/DVD playback equipment, and 80-inch display monitors; a 20-seat computer lab for language study, research, and students’ independent use; and a student lounge and kitchenette. Visitors to the Open House can learn about the programs and classes offered, meet the faculty and students, and find out about volunteer opportunities for native speakers of English.

During any Pitt academic term, approximately 130 students from countries around the globe are taking 20 hours of noncredit classwork a week at the institute. Some are students planning to apply to Pitt; others are spouses of international researchers and faculty; and others are community members who wish to improve their English. The institute’s services include a full-time intensive English as a second language program, for-credit English as a second language courses for Pitt students, and classes for the community such as test preparation courses, and conversation courses. 

Students in the intensive program are part of the University of Pittsburgh community and are issued Pitt ID cards, allowing them access to Pitt libraries and athletic facilities and to experience life on an American university campus. 

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