Support For International Students

If English is not your first language, read on...

It is a major challenge to undertake a degree course in a second language. Even though you will already have achieved a reasonable standard in English as an entry requirement, you may still experience problems when it comes to academic writing and participation in classes etc. You may also find that the academic culture and expectations in Britain differ from your home country. In recognition of this, the Sociology Department seeks to support its international students in a number of ways:

In addition, the university has a well-developed support programme for students experiencing language difficulties:

You are not alone! (some facts)

Overseas students currently make up 43% of the total student population at Essex (27% from outside the EU), with 130 different countries represented.

Academic and Writing Support for international Students

(these classes are also open to students in Human Rights)

A series of subject-specific academic and language support classes over the autumn term, run jointly by the English language Teaching Centre (ELTC) and Sociology. The classes provide an informal introduction to the academic culture of the department and university: learning environments, expectations and conventions, in addition to extensive, practical language and writing support.

For more information, click here

International Student Pairing Scheme  (ISPS)

What is ISPS?

ISPS is relatively new initiative in the Resource Room (established summer 2003); a 'pairing' scheme which aims to link international students with English speaking students (and other international students) on a voluntary basis. The scheme has been established in response to the difficulties that international students commonly identify in their studies, for example in following the content of lectures or contributing in class, due to language problems or for cultural reasons. 

ISPS is a database of volunteer students who are willing to offer their time in a variety of ways e.g. by going over assignments/class notes, sitting with international students in class, practising English conversation etc. The database can be searched by the type of help wanted, by course or by name etc.

This is a great opportunity for international students and home students alike to make new friends, and for international students to improve their English, and their confidence in using it - both socially and academically.

How can I access ISPS?

The ISPS database is accessible (as desktop icon) via all of the Resource Centre computers. If you have any difficulty locating or accessing it ask a Resource Centre volunteer, or see Rowena (5A.315)

How can I get involved as an ISPS volunteer?

There is no minimum time commitment expected of volunteers - this is a matter of individual preference and availability. The help offered may be on a one-off basis or longer-term.

If you think you may have time to offer (even if only the occasional hour each term), you can register as a volunteer by emailing Rowena (rowena@...)

We look forward to hearing from you!

Proof reading

A limited, free, essay proof reading service is available to all sociology students (generally one essay per student per term, subject to availability of volunteer readers).
More information on proof reading.

Last modified on 17 December 2008