Behind the scenes of EF Academy’s Preparation Program

The Preparation Program helps students experience real-life learning while preparing their academic skills for the US classroom. To learn more, we spoke with Emile Gable, Director of EF Academy Preparation Program at our New York campus.

Q: What can a student expect if they enroll in the Preparation Program?

Our focus is helping students build the skills to be academically successful in a rigorous setting like EF Academy. So that means study skills, English language skills, and adjusting to an experiential learning culture.

For instance, our Preparation Program students recently completed an etymology research project in partnership with the Teen Center at The New York Public Library. At the end, students presented their work—including a two-page paper and a 90-second oral presentation in English—to 30 faculty and staff. Considering that these students had only been in the program for two months, it was a huge achievement.

Q: Can you tell me more about the differences between the seasonal pathways that are offered?

The summer pathway is a great fit for students who are new to American classroom culture, studying in the US, or living away from home for the first time. It gives them an extra edge when they enter school in the fall.

The other pathways (spring, fall, and winter) are longer, so they benefit students who need additional time in the program. Students also get academic credit for the courses they take during these pathways. Our goal is to build students’ skills and confidence to the point where they can successfully transition to our other academic programs.

Q: Can you give more examples of experiential learning in the curriculum?

Recently our students visited the New Jersey School of Woodwork to learn hands-on math skills as they planned, measured, cut, and built their own birdhouses. And when school is back in session, the science department will help students place the birdhouses around campus to see which species gather there. Last year, we did a weeklong boat expedition, participated in the Billion Oyster Project, and even had a whale-watching trip.

We’re excited to plan more hands-on learning experiences that don’t just stand alone but instead unfold throughout the year across multiple subjects. It gives students a chance to apply in the classroom what they learned in the field and vice versa.

Q: What else should families know about the Preparation Program?

This program works so well because first, we invest time into students; second, it’s a strategically built program. We have fantastic teachers, really dedicated staff, and we pay close attention to our students and families. For example, I offer one-on-one parent calls every four to six weeks, and I meet every family personally when they start the program, either in person or via Zoom. Families are eager for that connection, and I think they feel more comfortable knowing that their child is here with trustworthy people.

Learn more about EF Academy's Preparation Program →