Long-time language instructor prepares students for their future

The LEAP program provides students with the skills and knowledge to succeed when they advance to a top-rated undergraduate university like Mount Royal University.

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In the summer of 1995 Sheri Marendiuk was hired to teach a six-week contract in the Languages Institute at Mount Royal. In 2020 she celebrated her 25th work anniversary at MRU.

For a quarter of a century, she has enjoyed teaching English to thousands of local new Canadians as well as students from all over the world. Marendiuk has also instructed students from MRU partner universities around the globe.

She has worked with professors from Mongolia to Mexico, engineers from Venezuela, Olympic planning groups from South Korea and internationally-trained nurses who want to be certified in Canada.

“In a sense this is the longest short-term teaching gig I have had in my life!” says Marendiuk.

The English Language Program (ELP) in International Education at MRU is a remarkable program based on what research proves is the best way to teach English as an Additional Language. The instructors and people who support the ELP have been delivering this program for more than 40 years. The University believes a strong global community of learners is good for individuals and the world.

“Students in our academic English program typically have a goal to enter credit studies at MRU — either as first time university students or to add a Canadian diploma or degree to enhance their post-secondary credentials. Students can develop the English language skills they need to continue on their academic paths and reach their future career goals.”

MRU LEAP students receive easy to understand instruction in reading, writing, listening and speaking. They also get support for vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation. When these learners complete LEAP 4, they are ready to move ahead in university credit studies.

“These students bring a richness of experience and perspectives, as well as cultural diversity to the larger Mount Royal community.”

Students who are interested in pursuing credit studies, but who do not meet the prerequisites of the English Language Proficiency often need some time to study and improve their written and spoken accuracy and fluency in English. At the same time, they can become more familiar with Canadian undergraduate academic standards and options.

The LEAP program at MRU has four classes that focus on different areas so students develop their academic language skills. The LEAP program provides students with the skills and knowledge to succeed when they advance to a top-rated undergraduate university like Mount Royal University.

“My experience at Mount Royal has taught me how important it is to have a community of people support each other’s learning goals. Over the years I have watched lifelong friendships form that unite people who want to get a higher level of education so they can adapt to a changing world and contribute to society in a meaningful and inclusive way.”

July 8, 2020