Moldovan Access Summer Camp: An “English Only” Zone

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Representing nine regions of Moldova, 110 students (including 60 from orphanages and three with special education needs) recently gathered for five weeks for the English Access Microscholarship (Access), a summer camp program.

The English intensive learning summer camp provided Moldovan students the opportunity to improve their English language skills and learn about American society and values through movies, songs, and traditional games. The camp was led by seven qualified EFL instructors and nine teacher assistants who provided interactive instructive and educative activities to develop both the English and personal skills of the Access program students.

While at camp, Access students were trained in Media Education, organized by the Independent Journalism Center from Moldova as part of the Promoting Media Literacy Among Moldovan Citizens project. During the training, students were encouraged to "correctly consume information, be vigilant, and read journalists' materials between the lines." Students were then able to sit down with a group of journalists from Radio Free Europe and engage in discussions about media literacy.

Students also participated in career education workshops led by the coordinator of Career for Me, Tatiana Sevcenco, who spoke about professional development opportunities and activities. The sessions invited students to reflect upon their life priorities, personal preferences, and possibilities as sources to achieve their future vocational goals.

Established in 2010, the Moldovan Access program aims to provide a foundation of English language skills to talented 14- to 18-year-olds from economically disadvantaged sectors through afterschool classes and intensive sessions. Access students gain an appreciation for American culture and democratic values, increase their ability to participate in the socio-economic development of Moldova, and improve their chances to compete for, and participate in, future US exchange and study programs.