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Welcome to the American Language Institute's uSC/ITA Program

The uSC/ITA program allows undergraduate students to help refine international Ph.D. students prepare for the responsibilities of being a teaching assistant, with the added benefit of facilitating a cultural exchange between both parties. 

How the Program Works

A significant part of participation in ALI Classes involves weekly meetings between Undergraduate Student Consultant (uSC) and their respective International Teaching Assistant (ITA). Starting week 4 of the semester, ITAs are expected to meet with their uSC for 2 hours every week for 10 weeks. 
​These two hours will offer ITAs an invaluable opportunity to hone their teaching skills, practice the English language (pronunciation, conversation, slang, idioms, grammar, etc.), and gain a broader understanding of American culture.  These words will often be summarized as “TLC.”

“I learned about Chinese culture which was very valuable, but I think what was most valuable was specifically learning how similar people are across cultures. Mengya and I had so much in common in terms of ideas and interests, and it was really cool to hang out with somebody who is from an entirely different background and upbringing but can still relate to you.” - Brooke Weiner

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