From the perspective of a student
The ELC is an English language school at BYU for international students seeking to enhance their English skills and gain admission to an English-speaking college. ELC is a place of love and learning, where students can forge friendships that endure for a lifetime while they improve their English proficiency. The program fosters both temporal and spiritual growth, adhering to BYU's honor code, which upholds high values and expects excellence.
Despite students hailing from various countries, cultures, and ideologies, they find a welcoming community at ELC that feels like home, even when they are far away from it. ELC functions as a supportive family that strives for excellence in English language development while also guiding students to emulate the values of Jesus Christ. Teachers consistently encourage students to communicate in English during class and expect them to do the same outside of class. By integrating English into their daily lives, students can significantly improve their language skills. At ELC, excellence is not just expected; it is strived for by providing students with the necessary tools to achieve their goals and become leaders in the world.
The building housing The English Language Center was constructed to accommodate two LDS student stakes and BYU's English Language Center. Construction of the three-story Parkway Center began in November 1997 and was completed in August 1998. The building serves as a prototype for dual-purpose facilities, hosting school activities on weekdays and worship services or church activities on Sundays and evenings. Elder Eyring, who delivered the dedicatory prayer, hinted at the building's broader significance beyond BYU's campus, emphasizing its potential impact on education and religious outreach worldwide.
President Bateman emphasized the seamless integration of secular and sacred aspects within the educational and ecclesiastical arms of the Church. This perspective was exemplified in the collaborative efforts of church leaders and university officials during the Parkway Center's construction. Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander likened the building's construction to a person's life, highlighting the importance of planning, a solid foundation, quality materials, and skilled builders.
At ELC, each class offers opportunities for learning and growth. Students enjoy studying, laughing, and even shedding tears over the topics covered. The supportive environment encourages sharing among classmates, fostering motivation and progress. The dedicated staff at ELC spare no effort in helping students achieve their goals, and their commitment is evident in the progress students make. ELC's diverse community, comprising students and staff from various backgrounds, exemplifies the principles of empathy, understanding, and love.
Much of ELC's success can be attributed to the dedication, time, and effort invested by the staff in supporting teaching and learning. Staff members like Arwen Wyatt and Sandy Hatchett play vital roles in ensuring the smooth functioning of the center and providing assistance to students and teachers. The bilingual and multicultural nature of the staff and teachers creates a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Prospective students from diverse cultural backgrounds, seeking admission to English-speaking universities, choose ELC at BYU for its quality teaching, trained staff, and unique methodology. ELC not only focuses on professional development but also on personal growth, addressing students' questions, concerns, and progress.
For these reasons, ELC is an excellent place to study English, offering inspiration for both temporal and spiritual growth. Studying at ELC marks the first step toward achieving academic and personal goals. ELC's commitment to excellence, coupled with BYU's vision, culture, and approach, ensures that students are well-prepared not only for language proficiency exams like TOEFL or IELTS but also for success in college and beyond.
Resources:
https://elc.byu.edu/mission-statement
https://elc.byu.edu/00000179-6b9c-d973-abfd-6bfd23a80000/attachment-dedication-deseret-news-article