Workshops on Academic Writing, Speaking and Interaction

The SpeakUP [speaking group] lessons gave me a new point of view to learn English. In some sense, I was taught to learn English for tests or examinations for many years. I seldom have the opportunity to focus on "real communication" and most of my energy has been spent on understanding literacy itself. I didn't know much about the meaning of "usage" in different situations and needs. Your lessons and other lessons from EPPIC let me start to know it, such as "small talk" and "extending conversation." It is not just a matter of literacy but quite communicative and interactive. I believe that this is an important aspect of so-called "authentic English."

Liling Guo, Visiting Scholar

EPPIC provides valuable support for my writing projects in so many aspects (e.g, brainstorming, outlining, organizing, revising). It not only helps me improve my writing, but also empowers me to develop skill and confidence in writing.

Graduate Student

I prepared a conference presentation with EPPIC. Bob is so friendly in teaching exact pronunciation and intonation. It was so helpful and I did a great job in my presentation!

Sojung Jung, Graduate Student

Let's Talk [speaking group] helps me better adapt to life in State College. It provides expressions for effective communication in the everyday scenarios that we may encounter. For example, the instructor added an informative session for coping with COVID-19 when we are in the midst of the pandemic. In addition, the classes are facilitated in an interactive manner, so that we are able to practice the learned phrases with partners, gain confidence in speaking English, and even develop cross-disciplinary networks.

Graduate Student, WFED

I have received great help from the EICs [individual consultations] provided by Jacob. During the semester, I brought various tasks to him including assignments, presentation slides, my professional CV, research articles, and whatever utilized English for academic purposes. He has been always patient and supportive with my problems in writing, speaking, and presentations. I especially received great support from him while I was preparing for my qualifying exam. As a novice scholar in the very first year of studying in the US, I feel that EPPIC helps me along the way of my professional growth.

Graduate Student

As a regular user of EPPIC, I am familiar with almost every writing tutor. I appreciate your warm greetings and helpful suggestions every time.

Yu Sun, Graduate Student

EPPIC has greatly helped me. I loved consultation services for both writing and presentations. I have recommended EPPIC to many of my friends. Thank you!

Graduate Student, CAS

EPPIC is soooo helpful!!! It benefits me a lot in terms of both writing and presentation skills. I 100% believe this [support] will substantially contribute to my future research career.

Graduate Student, Economics

EPPIC has been a place where I can experience a different atmosphere than that of daily classes. Having been equipped with skills and knowledge that most international students need, I'm so positive that EPPIC's program will eventually lead students to easily get adjusted to the Penn State community.

Ratna Aryanti Uar, Graduate Student

EPPIC leads a variety of workshops on academic writing, speaking, and interaction in English in a U.S. university setting each semester. Topics include these and more:

- Emailing your Professors: How to do it Better
- Strategies for Reading Academic Articles
- Participating in Group Work: Getting Involved
- Preparing Academic Slide Presentations: Tips for Clear Delivery
- Preparing for Job Interviews in the U.S.: What to Expect and How to Respond
- Focus on Pronunciation: The Sounds of American English
- Focus on Interaction’ Workshop Series

EPPIC workshops will resume in fall 2021.

Click here to view the spring 2021 workshop calendar.

Click here to view the spring 2021 ‘Focus on Interaction’ session list.

Registration for fall 2021 workshops will be available here starting in August 2021.

In fall 2021, EPPIC workshops will be offered both in-person and on-line via Zoom. Please register at least 24 hours in advance to receive a Zoom meeting link.

Earn EPPIC Workshop Certificates!

Attend a series of workshops in a specific topic area (e.g., academic writing, research presentations, pronunciation in the U.S., etc.) and earn an EPPIC workshop certificate! Certificates can be listed on your CV, shared with your supervisor, and added to your professional development dossier.

Not sure which workshop series and certificates are right for you? Talk with an EPPIC Adviser for personalized recommendations.

Did you attend a full workshop series? Write to eppic@psu.edu to request a formal certificate of completion.

Workshops on Academic Writing, Speaking and Interaction

*Earn EPPIC Workshop Certificates!*

Earn EPPIC Workshop Certificates!