ELI Volunteer Program

The volunteer program at the English Language Institute was established in 1985. Volunteers bring a fresh outlook and voice to the international students and support the language and cultural activities of the ELI and Syracuse University as a whole. Sign up at the ELI office, Room 207, 700 University Ave.

Benefits of Volunteering at the ELI

• Volunteer work improves your résumé.
• Working with people enhances your communication and leadership skills.
• You are exposed to different cultures, value systems, and methods of communication.
• You learn about international students and their countries.
  

Positions Available

• Conversation group leaders
• Guides (show students around the Syracuse area)
  
• Translators (brochures and flyers)

General Requirements

• You should be reliable and punctual. Students depend on volunteers to show up as scheduled for each of the planned activities.
• You should have a keen interest in international students and different cultures.
  

For Conversation Groups

• Native American English speakers are preferred because they act as language and cultural models for ELI students.

For all Other Social Activities

• A good knowledge of Syracuse and surrounding areas is helpful.

What Makes the ELI Volunteer Program Unique?

• You are exposed to people from different parts of the world.
• You get to see the role you play in helping international students practice English and witness their improvements.
• You are constantly working with ELI students in a social context (So it's FUN!).