Course Description
Classes will be built around American Business & Entrepreneurship. Each class will focus on developing students’ listening, speaking, reading, writing, and vocabulary skills with a focus on business vocabulary and how to communicate in a business setting, while also increasing their understanding of American culture. Classes are communicative in approach and student-centered in its delivery. Visits to not only big name companies like Intel but also to local non-profit and start-up companies will give students an opportunity to explore different business types. Discussions with local entrepreneurs and touring local businesses will further provide insight into how businesses are structured.
In addition, students will have ample opportunity to explore cultural topics and expand their English language skills through small group activities, projects, weekly small group conversation partner sessions facilitated by a PSU student, and interaction outside the classroom in the Portland State and greater Portland communities.
Students will be in class for 20 hours per week including business-related excursions, totaling 80 hours for the 4-week program and 60 hours for the 3-week program.
Class Activities and Class Excursions (Field Trips)
Classes give students the opportunity to use and practice their English in real-life situations. Students can visit and write about places in Portland; attend cultural events; talk with PSU students; listen to guest speakers; discuss topics related to American Business, Entrepreneurship and American culture; and experience volunteering in the community.
Activities (Tentative Summer 2024 Calendar) and field trips may include:
- Attend weekly international coffee hour to chat with other PSU students
American Business Excursions
- Visit Intel to talk with current employees about work in a multinational company
- Learn about entrepreneurship from immigrants who own their own business in the U.S.
- Visit start-up companies like ADX (Art Design Portland)
- Tour local businesses
Other Excursions
- Visit scenic places like Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge
- Trip to the Oregon Coast
- Go to the outlet mall for tax-free shopping
- Experience Portland Food Culture (Blue Star and Voodoo Donuts, Salt & Straw ice-cream, Stumptown Coffee, and food carts from around the world)
- Visit other popular Portland places like Saturday Market, the Farmer’s Market, Powell's Bookstore, coffee shops, etc.