PROGRAM OVERVIEW
America Plus is an immersive English and cultural learning program where students develop practical communication skills while experiencing Portland as a living classroom. Through daily English Communication classes, experiential Pop Culture or Sustainable Living content courses, and the exploration of the Pacific Northwest, students build confidence using English in academic, social, and everyday settings.
PARTICIPANT LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the America Plus Program, participants will be able to:
- Communicate more confidently in English in academic, social, and everyday situations through classroom learning and authentic interactions.
- Develop intercultural awareness and global perspectives by exploring Portland and the Pacific Northwest’s diverse communities and examining American society within a multicultural context.
- Connect classroom learning with real-world experiences by exploring Portland Popular Culture or Sustainable Living through site visits, community experiences, and practical activities.
- Reflect on cultural similarities and differences by connecting experiences in Portland with their own cultural backgrounds and perspectives.
- Demonstrate intercultural adaptability through the homestay experience by communicating with a local host family, navigating everyday life in an American household, and developing the interpersonal and cultural skills needed to engage effectively across cultures.
HOW PARTICIPANTS LEARN
Students combine daily English Communication classes with experiential content courses and an immersive homestay experience which extend learning beyond the classroom. Depending on the course, students may participate in popular culture or sustainable living related site visits which include tours, engaging dialogues with professionals, research activities, and guided reflections.
PORTLAND AS A LIVING CLASSROOM
Located in the heart of Portland, Portland State University gives students direct access to diverse neighborhoods, local businesses, organizations, and cultural spaces that make the city distinctive. Students use English for a purpose—asking questions, gathering information, sharing ideas, navigating new environments, and learning from the community.
SAFETY
Recent program feedback from Winter 2026 participants highlighted the following stats:
- 100% of surveyed participants reported feeling safe or mostly safe on campus and in the city.
- Zero unsafe experiences on campus or in the city were reported during the program.
- 91% of surveyed participants said they would return to Portland if given the opportunity.
PARTICIPANT TAKE AWAY
Students leave the America Plus program with greater confidence communicating in English and a deeper understanding of American culture and intercultural communication. These skills can support future university study, study abroad, international travel, making presentations, and bolstering their resumes.