It’s an important step in their post-secondary education.

On Friday, April 20, dozens of graduating students attended the closing ceremony for the Winter Term of the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) in Sean O’Sullivan Theatre.

Students were recognized for their completion of the program run by Brock ESL Services, with 63 moving on to undergraduate degree programs at Brock University this fall.

“These students have demonstrated significant commitment to learning and improving their English, and we wish our graduating IELP students the very best as they advance in their academic careers,” said Barry Lush, Associate Director, ESL Services.

By completing the IELP program, students strengthened their English skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking and grammar. Students also improved their ability to read academic materials, write essays, take notes and give presentations.

Completion of the program’s highest level (Level 5) requires students to meet certain English proficiency test scores.

Among those graduating from Level 5 was Yousra Benradi, who came to Niagara as a result of a scholarship opportunity from Brock through Daughters for Life. The scholarship provides women who face socio-economic hardship in challenging regions in the Middle East with an opportunity for higher education.

A native of Morocco, a diverse country in North Africa with coastline on both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, Benradi is already fluent in Arabic, Amazigh and French.

Benradi, who was also the valedictorian at Friday’s ceremony, now has her sights set on becoming a doctor and will attend Brock this fall in pursuit an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences.

“The key to success in life is to be proud of yourself, believe in what you’re doing, and never give up” said Benradi as she addressed fellow classmates and teachers.

Students interested in learning more about Brock’s ESL Services are encouraged to visit the department website here.