The North Lake Campus Language Center offers tutoring in English as a Second Language (ESL) and English for Students of Other Languages (ESOL). Both programs focus on improving communication skills in English, including listening, speaking, reading and writing.

“Some international students stop by for extra credit, other just get their homework done,” Ann Lee, a student assistant, said.

Students needing to take placement exams can do so at the Language Center. The Future exam is offered for ESL students. The ESL Accuplacer exam is for students who are taking ESOL credit classes. It tests reading, listening and language usage skills and requires a written essay. Both assessments require a referral from the success coach.

The Language Center also offers workshops, language exchange sessions and an international film series.

“I want to encourage everyone to join the Language Center, as there are a lot of activities,” Lee said.

North Lake has many students who speak Spanish, French, Vietnamese and Napoli as their primary language. Lee adds that the Learning Center is a friendly environment where students can share their language and culture.

The Language Exchange takes place in person every Friday during the semester and will move to online during the summer and winter breaks. With an open-door policy, students can walk in at any time to use the computer or practice a conversation in another language. It is located in the library basement in room L-123.