Technology advancements and innovations have allowed us to work more effectively and efficiently together than ever before – and COVID propelled us even further with our virtual capabilities and all the ways in which we can collaborate, even if we’re in different time zones. The tools we use to adapt to these changes help us work better together, which means ultimately, arriving at stronger final products, more strategic thinking, and a more optimistic outlook towards the future.

With cloud-based technology in our back pocket, this kind of collaboration is easy for educational organizations as well. While being together in one classroom certainly has its advantages, there are far more benefits from learning remotely, thanks to this technology. We can remove commuting time, stay physically safe from risk, and we ultimately save money and energy to then redirect our attention to the things that matter the most to us in our lives.

Small businesses and education organizations alike are adapting to these software systems that bring teams together to brainstorm, ideate, plan, and activate – all with ease. Here are a few that increase productivity, allow for creativity, and boast collaboration.

• Miro

This software allows for the optimum space for students to bring all their ideas together in one place. With the same characteristics of a physical whiteboard in a classroom, Miro steps it up with easier design features, clean functionality, and supportive options that allow for positive reinforcement and encouragement. It beats its competitors when it comes to adaptability across devices, which is a crucial tool since we’re all accustomed to working essentially wherever we are, at any time. And Miro isn’t just great for collaborative projects, but it’s also helpful to keep all the appropriate stakeholders on track, as Miro aids in task management, organizational mapping, and even time management.

• Lucidspark

This platform is a similar structure but wins in other categories against its competitors. It’s the easiest to onboard, which might be helpful if your students are younger or adapting to technology for the first time. This ease of use will make adjustment easier and encourage a softer transition into a new way of thinking. If your students are visual learners, Lucidspark is known for its innovative drawing functionality, which will help if you’re discipline is in the arts or communication fields. As your students adjust to the new platform, they’ll also realize the benefits of working in a cloud-based system and will want to expand to other cloud-based capabilities, which is something that Lucidspark excels at – your students will be able to practice their organizational skills by learning how to store information on the cloud that will translate to higher efficiencies and ease of use in the long-run.

• Mural

Newer to the space is Mural, if you’re looking for a platform that is also probably the most cost-efficient model in the category, as they have custom packages for educational systems that are built per case, which is also ideal if you’re just getting started with this kind of technology. Mural has almost all the features that Miro and Lucidpsark have, so you’ll benefit from all the collaborative features and capabilities, but there are some elements that users are particularly fond of. The ability to create custom icons can make the experience more personalized for your students, which can aid in their engagement if they’re new to the topic. Users also really love the voting feature, which can make your students feel more connected with one another if they’re all working remotely. Mural is also compatible with in-browser, desktop, or mobile so your students can be a part of the conversation wherever they are.

Cloud-based software systems have completely changed the way in which we work and learn – it saves time, money, and efficiencies, and your workers and students can still feel connected and collaborative with their team members. We’re working faster than ever before, so ensuring that our efficiencies match that speed is imperative, and systems like Miro, Lucidspark, and Mural all help to ensure that final product is successful. Learning this technology will also keep minds active, collaboration skills refined, and excitement rejuvenated.

Productivity and efficiency are two tactics that any business or school organization needs to deliver on missions. Your employees and students must feel challenged yet supported, and they have to be seen and heard – these software systems can provide all of that while simultaneously moving forward in innovation, critical thinking, and bettering our future.

The saying for March weather is “In like a lion, out like a lamb” – at the start of the month, the weather is completely unpredictable as spring tries to make its way into our lives. One day it could be windy, wet, and blustery, and the next day, we could be taking walks with our sunnies on without a care in the world. But by the time we reach the final week in March, we can feel pretty confident that we can hang up our winter coats for good. This can make the month of March feel a bit goofy when trying to make plans, but luckily, if you’re in New York City this month, you’ll have plenty of options!

One of the other benefits to living in the Big Apple is that you’re never short of diversity or being surrounded by people speaking various languages – this means if you’re trying to hone in on your English skills, you’re in the best place to put your skills to use. Not only are people patient with language barriers, but they’ll also be willing to help you if you need a little push. That said, I wanted to highlight activities that will be supportive of your English skills AND keep you entertained! Happy Lion Month, everyone!

1. New York Travel & Adventure Show, Hell’s Kitchen

This is actually an activity that I’m bookmarking for myself as well. As we near the two-year anniversary of COVID, it’s amazing to think how much we may have put on hold. I haven’t seen many of my loved ones, I’ve had to cancel trips and activities, and traveling now just seems like a luxury that’s far from reality now. Not only will tons of experts be there to share tips and tricks, but you’ll learn about the new age of travel thanks to the pandemic. If you’re like me, you’re both eager and anxious to get back on planes and trains, so if you need a bit more information before making any big decisions, I recommend checking this event out. Plus, you’ll walk away with plenty of swag (in English and tons of other languages), so this is the place to connect with others that are just as well-traveled and skilled in multiple languages as you are.

2. Sherlock Holmes in 221 Objects, Upper East Side

Calling all book lovers! This brand new exhibition will be a dream come true for anyone that grew up reading Sherlock Holmes and all the adventures that came along with it. Curated from Sir Conan Doyle’s belongings, you’ll become immersed in all things Sherlock Holmes, making you feel like you’ve been transported back into time. This will be running until April, so you have some time, but be sure to add this site to your list so you can check off all the amazing things related to this literary icon. With so many writings, you’ll easily brush up on your English reading skills, some of which is actually handwritten from the author himself! Don’t forget your pipe!

3. Free museum nights at MoMA

Um, hello? Did you know about this? Starting March 4^th, every first Friday of every month, this iconic destination is offering free admission to NYC residents from 4 to 8pm. If you’re a bit tight on funds or just looking to take advantage of an activity without breaking the bank, this is the activity for you. As you can bet, word about this awesome event will get out, so be sure to hit up the first month’s opening before too many people hear about this. I know COVID feels like it’s on its way out, but just be mindful about how many people are there and bring your mask just in case. Grab your friends, collect your pamphlets, and enjoy the second-floor café when you’re ready to give your feet a break.

It’s been a long two years since we started adjusting to a completely new way of life. Sometimes it’s hard to believe we’re still in this reality. As we start to look ahead at a possible “normal” life in the coming months, don’t forget to cater to your mental health. Keep checking in on yourself and your loved ones because adjustment anxiety is real. Let’s come out of this whole experience as better versions of ourselves and better people to the ones around us. Let’s use COVID as a lesson to be better!

The premise of a new year always entails a fresh start, a new perspective, a new you. This can be a lot of pressure! What if you’re exhausted and can’t possibly fit another thing on your list? What if you’re pretty content with how things are? What if there’s still an ongoing pandemic that makes your planning a bit complicated?

I recently discovered a list of things that I wanted to accomplish in 2020. This was, of course, prior to COVID being in our vocabulary, so I had things like “go on a real vacation” and “meet 10 new people” on my list. I couldn’t help but laugh when I read some of those ideas, as there was no way I could have accomplished those goals, thanks to the pandemic. On one hand, it felt like I was relieved from the pressure to do all those things, and on the other hand, it made me kind of bummed out. How are we supposed to better ourselves, improve ourselves, if we’re being limited of our own capabilities?

I sat down the other day to make a list similar to the one above, as I was thinking about the year ahead and imagining what I might encounter in 2022. Since we’re all somewhat used to the pandemic and this “new normal,” I know now that my list will have to consider the impact of COVID. While I’m not back in the office on a full-time basis, I know that I can go in a few days a week if I want to. While I know that riding a plane or going on a cruise is not ideal, I know that as long as I’m safe and maintain my vaccinations and testing, I can still live my life.

It’s almost as if I made my list for 2022 with built-in buffers. I added in “travel,” but kept it vague because no one really knows what that sector will look like in 2022. I included “more socialization” – understandably, I won’t be attending any parties soon, but I want to deepen the relationships that I already have and make them more meaningful. Through ongoing therapy and processes that improve my own soul, I strive to use this increased alone time to work on myself, to be a better family member, friend, and person within my community.

COVID took a lot from us. But it’s also important to remember that COVID taught us a lot, too. I’m thankful and lucky that I didn’t lose a loved one to COVID, and I’m lucky that I was able to receive all 3 doses of the vaccine. I’ve learned to be in the moment more, and I’ve learned to cherish the relationships that I have. I’ve also listened to myself more, which has helped me understand what makes me, me. With all this in mind, I was able to create the most personalized list of goals that I’ve ever created. Each person’s will be unique, but I wanted to share a few of my own bullets and how I plan on achieving them this next year.

• Get savings account to x amount

A good rule of thumb is to have 3x the amount of one month’s living expenses in your savings. This can be challenging for anyone, but I’m up for the challenge. A few quick mathematical notes, and I know what I need to do to reach that goal. It also helped to break it down monthly so it’s easier to grasp the logistics.

• Treat myself to one solo vacation

My family lives all over the country, so I’ve found that the past couple of years, I use my vacation days for those family trips. Those trips are wonderful, don’t get me wrong, but I promised myself that I would take myself on one trip by myself this year. It could be somewhere as close to an hour away for a weekend or to another country for a week. No matter what I decide, I want to treat MYSELF for all the hard work I’ve put in.

• Pick up journaling again

This is an interesting one, as I used to be an avid journal-er. I’d write almost every single night, and it was part of my routine. It’s been at least ten years since I had a journal, and I miss the alone moments when I would reflect, vent, cry, celebrate, and collect all in one sitting. Thanks to therapy and all the alone time the past two years, I want to rebirth this habit and find some time in each day for reflection and self-learning.

New year, new you, right? There’s something about the beginning of January that gives me a jolt of inspiration, a moment of reflection to admire how far I’ve come and where I’d still like to go. I’m not big on New Year’s Resolutions, but I do try to make a list of things I want to accomplish in the near year. Sometimes they’re big (one year I had a goal of reading 20 books), and sometimes they’re small (one year I strived to build a new habit of working on my posture). No matter what you have set in store for 2022, chances are you’re a little uneasy given the uncertainty of the next year, thanks to this ongoing pandemic.

Whether you’re looking to work on your resolution list or simply hoping to make the most of the first month of 2022 while in the Big Apple, I’m confident that you’ll find a way to make it all happen. New York City is certainly not the same place it was two years ago, but my love for the city is unwavering. I feel we’re through the worst of it (I’m really hoping), so I’ve been testing the waters here and there to get back into the swing of things – I’ve been taking the subway more often, trying to get used to larger gatherings while still practicing social distancing, and I’ve also been working on my in-person social skills (as an awkward person to begin with, this is an area that really needs my attention in the new year!).

Either way, here are a few things you can do this January in New York City, whether you have resolutions, an interest in becoming more active, or just simply hoping to use your English skills in real life. Don’t forget your winter jacket, your mask, and as always, some hand sanitizer!

1. Winter Market, Bryant Park

I may have written about this experience in the past, but I want to ensure that this falls on your list because it’s one of the coolest winter experiences in the city. All sorts of shops and eateries gather their best inventory for window shoppers as they sip their hot chocolate and unwind from a hectic holiday season. With so many unique products and services available at this market, you’ll find out about some of the coolest independent shops in the area and support small businesses at the same time. Since you’ll be interacting with dozens of people as you shop around, you’ll be putting your conversational skills to use, and if you choose to follow and support these businesses on your social media feeds, you’ll also put your reading and writing English skills to use at the same time! You can also rest easy since this market is held outdoors, as COVID continues to remind us of its ongoing presence.

2. Brooklyn Bridge

So this is a New York City staple, obviously, but I want to ensure that my guiding includes destinations that will keep you outside yet warm enough to enjoy it. Since you’ll be walking a ton while visiting this spot, you’ll stay warm but also safe. The view on this bridge never gets old – I’ve been a few times, as I bring visitors to this spot so they can see the bridge in person and experience the incredible views themselves. Not only will you get your new year exercise in, but you’ll be getting fresh air and views that are indescribable. You can put your English social speaking skills to use when you ask strangers to take your photo – don’t forget to offer the favor back to them in English!

3. Restaurant Week, January 18 – February 13

This is another rotating event, as restaurant week happens twice a year (and obviously lasts for more than a week). This is the perfect opportunity to give that new restaurant a try or explore something outside of your traditional visits. Not only will you benefit from reduced prices, but you’ll expand your palette and add more unique cuisines to your list. The added benefit is that outdoor dining seems to continue to be popular amongst us New Yorkers, so if you prefer to eat your meals outside instead of inside (thanks, COVID), you’ll be able to still benefit from this lasting feature. With written menus, spoken orders, and ongoing conversations, your English skills will be tested and easily used throughout your evening, so check out the participation list in your borough, and start making those reservations!

New York City in December is one of my favorite times here. There’s something in the air that feels (and even smells) magical, and maybe that’s my inner child, but either way, I love taking the long way home in December. I’ll walk wherever I can as often as I can so I can take in all the holiday decorations, smell the early winter air, and appreciate the jovial feelings in the air from both locals and tourists alike. Sure, I’ll avoid heavily trafficked areas this month, like the Rockefeller Tree or Bryant Park, but the whole city is ready for the holiday season, so even if you want to avoid the denser areas, you’ll still feel like you’re in the most magical place on earth.

Whether you’ve been here for a while or pretty new to the Big Apple, there are quite a few ways to enjoy New York City in December, even if you’re trying to put your English skills to use. As I’ve said before, one of the major things that makes New York City so special is that this area is a gigantic melting pot – people from all over the world live here, and you’ll be surprised to hear all the various languages that are spoken all over the five major boroughs. Because of this, if you ever need any help or guidance, you’re bound to find someone that can help you.

So, if you’re looking to keep your English skills sharp this December while you’re walking in the New York City winter wonderland, check these options out below.

• New York Botanical Garden Glow

If you can manage getting up to the Bronx this month, it’ll be worth your travels to check out this outdoor event. Only in its second year, this light festival will not only keep you safe since you’re outdoors, but it’ll put you into the holiday mood. With plenty of photo opportunities, you and your friends will have memories to last years to come. If you need help navigating or with translation, be sure to check in with your friends to see if they can help OR be sure your translation app on your phone is ready to go so you can get the answers you need right away. Don’t forget to dress for the chilly night temperatures!

• Urbanspace Union Square Holiday Market

I’m personally really excited for this one because it didn’t operate last year due to COVID, so you can bet that this year, the activation is going to be better than ever before. Keep this in mind as you’re planning your day here, as you can be sure to expect lots of people eager to get their market shopping done since last year was a bust. I recommend checking out the map and vendor list so you can set up an action plan, including specific “routes” to take while you’re at the market so you can hit the stands you want to hit first and then leisurely stroll once you have your targets done. This is a GREAT opportunity to practice your English back-and-forth with various vendors, so get ready to chat with some locals!

• The Greens Winter Cabins at Pier 17

I might have written about this installation over the summer, but I never got around to trying this myself! When COVID hit, places like this tried their hand at catering to the guidelines but not alienating peoples’ need to socialize, and it worked! So now they’re converting their summer pods into winter “globes” so that you and your pals can stay warm but still socially distanced from others around you. This is super trendy, so I highly recommend you contact the organizers so you can reserve your spot with enough time and without breaking the bank. Pack your activities, extra socks, and don’t forget the games – this is the perfect opportunity to practice your English social skills with one another! You’ll definitely want to Instagram your experience too, so start brainstorming those hashtags!

December is not a month with a shortage of things to do in New York City. All you’ll need to do is keep an open mind, dress with layers, and always be conscientious about staying safe and protected since we’re still trying to get through this pandemic. You’ll have so many options to stay entertained and to put what you’ve learned in your English classes to use in real life that you won’t even have to think about what you’re going to say next!

The Halloween holiday is one of the most celebrated days of the whole year – people of all ages dress up at all lengths, watch scary movies, and make memories with their loved ones for years to come. While the holiday itself is entirely for fun, it’s important to keep a few things in mind this particular season, as we’re still navigating a world with COVID. Halloween can also be a time of increased crime, due to the literal disguises that people wear and many people leaving their homes to celebrate at different locations.

Even though we all celebrate Halloween a little differently, I rounded up some best practices for this year so that you and your friends can have as much fun as possible while also staying safe and secure.

1. A Halloween mask does not count as an actual facemask

We’ve seen it: many people are against the mask mandate. But I’m thankful that I live in a city that doesn’t seem to have much of a problem with the rules in place. And even though I’m vaccinated and still follow mask protocols, I’m choosing to still keep my Halloween celebration small. I anticipate that a lot of people will treat the Halloween weekend as a “free pass” from wearing a mask, and not only do I NOT want to take the risk of being around those people, I also just don’t want to be around for the inevitable arguments that will come about as a result. So I recommend keeping your celebrations small and with people that you know.

2. Keep your wits

Halloween is another notorious night for partying. Whether you partake in alcohol consumption or not, it’s inevitable that people get a little loose for the special day. Because of this knowledge, if I decide to go out to celebrate Halloween, I keep a close eye on how much I’m drinking (as well as my friends) – as I mentioned above, this holiday brings out all kinds of walks of life, and I don’t want to take any chances this year. I highly recommend that you and your friends agree on a drink limit or a designated end time so that you all stay safe.

3. Make plans and stick with them

With Halloween, it’s very easy to lose track of time or even your friends. Because it’s one of those “anything goes” kinds of holidays, it can be very easy to make mistakes. I recommend huddling with your friends before the big night out and agreeing on the places you go to, a communication plan if you happen to “lose” a member of your party, and even how to get home. This is a great strategy to follow on ANY night out, but again, expect larger crowds this Halloween weekend – that can make losing track of your friends a bigger reality. There’s nothing wrong with being as prepared as possible!

4. Have fun!

Here’s the thing: as New Yorkers, we’ve really been through it the past two years. From the pandemic forcing us into lockdown, to a contentious election season, to several natural disasters, and to multiple social changes – it’s safe to say that we’ve been feeling a little tense lately. It’s only natural that you and your friends look forward to a night out of having fun, making memories, and doing something a little out of the ordinary. It’s crucial that you have fun – not just for your mental health but for the mental health of your friends, as well. The bonus is…whether you decide to keep it light with a small gathering at your apartment or if you’re planning on bar hopping, you’ll be supporting the economy, when it needs it the most. So have your friends bring snacks, décor, or even party favors to bring the party to life, and don’t forget to tip the bartenders if you decide to have a night out in the city!

Halloween is a fun time for all ages – not just for the little kids in our lives! If you plan on celebrating the holiday in one way or another this year, I just urge you to be smart, careful, and considerate. Don’t forget your ID and your vaccine card – depending on your costume, you might be difficult to recognize so you’ll need all forms of backup ID as possible! Bring a portable phone charger, your mask, maybe some hand sanitizer, and you should be good to go. Don’t forget to have fun!

We are in a very sensitive time right now. All over the globe, people are being quarantined, laid off, and tested for the coronavirus. It can be incredibly easy to let the fear take over you as you operate your day-to-day schedules. The unknown is a terrifying thought, and taking the proper and necessary measures to stay informed, safe, and calm will help alleviate that uneasy feeling.

If you’re like me and spending each day in isolation in New York City, you might feel a sense of stir crazy as well as frustration. Luckily, my job allows me to fulfill my responsibilities remotely, so I’m one of the lucky ones that hasn’t had to worry about income. I recognize how fortunate I am in this scenario, and if your job has been affected by this crisis, I hope you’re doing everything you can to stay calm.

I live by myself in a studio. I’ve come to love my personal space that I call “home.” Over the past two weeks, however, I’ve felt suffocated. I only leave my apartment to get groceries or make necessary errands. Often I’ll leave to take a walk just to get some fresh air and a change of scenery. Sometimes I’ll jog just to get my blood flowing. Not commuting every day has certainly made me realize just how much walking I was doing each day.

As I complete my second week in isolation, I wanted to share some tips that I’ve uncovered to help me stay safe but to also make sure that I’m mentally balanced amidst this uncertain time.

• Take advantage of our technology

I have been FaceTiming with my family members all over the country to check in with them, connect with them, and make sure that they’re staying safe. Since my friends and I can no longer go to dinner to bond, we’ll have virtual happy hours together to talk about our days, how we’re coping, and how much we miss one another.

I also see a therapist once a week. Traditionally, these sessions are in person, but as of last week, we’re now holding our sessions virtually. Again, I recognize that I’m lucky enough to have the technology that can support this capability, and if you’re in need of a mental health session, there have been all kinds of alternative methods of therapy popping up amidst this crisis. She’s helped me work through my building anxiety over the unknown, and ultimately, it’s nice to see her face and hear her voice for the familiarity factor.

Of course, isolation means this is the perfect time to catch up on your binge-watching or finally getting around to watching that movie you keep hearing about. I know I’ve often fantasized about a staycation, so I’ve always been looking at this situation in that lens myself. Might as well take advantage!

• Appreciate the solitude

As an introvert, I’ve always felt very comfortable with my own presence. I find I keep the best company! Even if you aren’t an introvert like me, there are many ways you can take advantage of this forced alone time. I’ve found this is a great time to get caught up on some reading I’ve let fall behind. I’ve picked up on my meditation – I’m still awful at it, but this is the perfect time to keep trying. Dust off your old hobbies, like crafts, working on a puzzle, or even painting.

When isolation first kicked off, I did a lot of laying around and being unproductive. This quickly set off some internal guilt – I felt like I should be doing more productive things and taking advantage of this time alone. So I told myself to commit to one project a day – since I’m working from home during the week, my Monday through Friday projects are a bit smaller, but no matter what, I’ve found this to be tremendously helpful. I’ll organize a drawer, go through storage and purge, or even clean.

• Be safe

Your health is the utmost priority right now, which is why no matter what, you have to be as careful as you can. Take walks, but be mindful of the people you may pass. Go for a run, but if the park is crowded, come back a few hours later. WASH YOUR HANDS. Clean your commonly touched pieces often – light switches, handles, doorknobs, and even your phone. In a time like this, there’s no such thing as being too safe.

If you’ve spent some time at New York English Academy, you’re likely used to the classroom dynamic and working with your classmates to enhance your learning skills. The instructor and the resources available have likely aided in your English skills, but you probably also have learned just as much by working with and practicing with your classmates. Since all of you are there for the same reasons, there’s likely a level of connection that others not in the program would not understand.

This sense of community has helped our society shape other programs in the academic field. Even for those that may not be incredibly social-minded, working with your classmates proves to be beneficial for all involved. This kind of work provides a perspective that simply cannot come from your textbooks or your instructor. Additionally, you can help one another out with difficult subjects without judgement, and this kind of collaboration utilizes a more active part of your brain than traditional classroom learning or lectures.

If you’re looking to continue your advanced studies after your time at New York English Academy, it’s highly recommended to check out the programs available at St. Francis College in Brooklyn. Not only do these two institutions have a partnership that allows easier entrance into the college, but there is a built-in community from which you can greatly benefit. If you choose to continue your higher education career at St. Francis College, here are just a few ways you can get involved in the community to enhance your English skills as well as your social skills.

St. Francis College Student Life

The college design is meant to shape young adults not only in their academic studies but in their social lives. The student life programs at St. Francis will help students develop their participation in the community and understand how they can make a difference in their world. With this kind of real-world exposure and experience, you can complete your time at St. Francis with more than just a degree.

• Clubs and organizations

There are many options for you to get involved here. From academic clubs to cultural and special interest clubs to even Greek life, there’s likely a concentration that would suit your specific interests. If you find there’s a club that doesn’t exist that you think others would be interested in, here’s your chance to take action! It’s an easy task to contact representatives at the school to make your case, and before you know it, you might have your very own club!

• Student government

No matter what your area of study is in, many students choose to get involved in this area of student life. Not only does it provide insight into action and advocacy, but it gives students a sense of operational process if change is desired. By looking at steps and elements that are required to achieve change, you may feel inspired to take greater action in your community and elevate your voice.

• Religious options

If you belong to any kind of religious community, you will likely be able to find a group that represents your belief system. Not only will this provide you with the resources you need to worship as you see fit, but you’ll also have a built-in community of others that share your values. Be sure to check out your options here.

• Athletics

If you’re an athlete yourself or just enjoy competitive sports, be sure to check out the schedules for these areas. With sports year-round, you can easily find the entertainment from basketball and soccer to track and field and swimming and diving. This is a great way to show support for the school as well as provide you the opportunity to meet new people and interact with fellow students.

The college experience is designed to provide you skills beyond the academic focus. By giving you the opportunity to interact with your classmates both in the classroom and beyond, you’ll develop enhanced social skills, community responsibility, and an organized mindset on how you want your life to look post-graduation. St. Francis College understands the value of interaction with one another, which is why the Student Life organization is robust and diverse. You’ll be able to have fun while simultaneously learning and designing the next years of your life.

If you’re ready to take the next step after your time at New York English Academy, check out St. Francis College today!

They say March comes in like a lion and ends like a lamb – I’ve always remembered this since I was little, and I have to admit that I tend to cling to this idea to this day. It’s likely because by the time we get to this time of the year, I am so ready for some breaks in the cold, winter days and finally get some sunnier and warmer days. By the time March rolls around, it can sometimes feel like winter will never end, so this is the unofficial month of change in weather!

For me, I’m ready to break my hibernation habits and start socializing more and meeting up with friends. I also find that my mood is just generally better overall!

Luckily, when you’re out and about more often, you’re also probably going to be seeing your friends more often. This gives you the chance to put your English skills to use in real-life beyond your classroom. Not only will you get to see your friends more, but you’ll be able to use one another to give your English skills some practice. No matter how you choose to spend your month of March, you’ll have plenty to do and plenty of opportunities to get some real-world English practice. Here are just a few things to look forward to this month.

1. March 9^th; National Meatball Day in Little Italy

First of all, I didn’t even know this existed myself, so if you find your way down to Little Italy this day, you might just run into me! What better neighborhood to try out some of the best tastes in town! There’s an entire list of restaurants that are participating in this day in some way, so this is a great way to plan your whole day so you can be sure to sample some of the best there is. Bonus: even though this event is designed to get you out of your house and spend some time practicing your English, this is actually a great excuse to try out your skills at Italian!

• March 15^th; The Vessel; Hudson Yards

If you can believe it, it’s now been one whole year since this iconic attraction was unveiled. It’s already made an incredible impression upon the city, and what better way to celebrate its presence than honor its one-year anniversary! If you haven’t made it to the Vessel yet, now’s the time! With incredible architecture and stunning views, you can easily spend an entire day here! So grab a group of friends and put on your most supportive pair of sneakers, and get ready for a great day of site-seeing. Plus, you’ll easily be able to connect with other site-seers, since this destination is wildly popular with people on social media – you’ll get your written English practice here!

• March 17th; NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade

This holiday is celebrated practically everywhere, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you to find out that New York City goes all out for St. Patrick’s Day. On this day, New York City hosts one of the oldest parades celebrated in the city, and you can catch it if you’re anywhere near Midtown East or the Upper East Side. Be sure to wear your green, and practice some of your English phrases to communicated with other parade-goers. You’d be surprised how many people get into the Irish spirit – just make sure to dress warm enough just in case spring isn’t ready to show itself yet!

New York City is a city that has endless things to do. If the weather is still a bit too bitter for you in the beginning of the month, check out one of the many museums so you can still be active but in the comfort of warmth. If springs starts to show early, take a stroll through one of the parks you haven’t visited yet. No matter what the weather is, March will still give you plenty to do. And since the Big Apple is such a huge cultural and lingual melting pot, you’ll be surrounded by all kind of people that will help you out if you need some help either with communicating or even just navigating through the city. At the end of the day, we’re all here to enjoy the best of what New York City has to offer, so you might as well make the best of it!

The New York English Academy strives to set you up for success when it comes to learning and practicing your English. With the location being right in the heart of New York City, you’re able to experience one of the most cultural melting pots in the world, with access to hundreds of historical sites and landmarks. Given the institute’s prime location, you also have the opportunity to put your learned English skills to use in the real world. Since there are quite literally hundreds of different languages spoken in this area, you can really exercise your language skills.

When your time at New York English Academy is drawing to a close, you also might be wondering what your next step is. If you’re looking to continue your education, you have tremendous options in the New York metro area, no matter what field you’re interested in. Luckily, however, there is now a brand new option that will appeal to anyone enrolled in New York English Academy currently.

Introducing the Partnership of New York English Academy with St. Francis College

One of the main areas of focus for St. Francis College is to educate the ever-growing immigrant population in the US. Located in Brooklyn, it stands to welcome students of all backgrounds and cultures to help diversify the nation and bridge the learning gap between cultures and languages.

Since the student population at New York English Academy is derived of individuals from other countries, the relationship between these two schools is incredibly valuable for those looking to fulfill a four-year degree from a well-known and respected college.

Additionally, St. Francis boasts a tuition that is 1/3 less expensive than other private colleges and institutions in the metro New York City area, meaning that your access to this institution is even more attainable. And one of the biggest bonuses is that if you transfer to St. Francis College from New York English Academy, you’ll automatically receive a $1,000 scholarship, which will surely help your decision-making process.

What this means for you as a New York English Academy student

Traditionally, if a student is attempting to enroll in a US university to study abroad, high scores on TOEFL or IELTS tests are required. As a benefit of being a student at NYEA, you can be exempt from this requirement as long as you complete the standard English level 4. Not only will this save you time and money, but it will also put you into a respected group of individuals that have completed the coursework at NYEA.

As this partnership expands and begins to accumulate attention and attraction amongst current and future students, the value of both schools will continue to be highlighted.

What’s next

Advancing to a four-year college means that you have the opportunity to become a candidate for a bachelor’s degree. Many professional jobs in the United States require a degree at this level for employment, which only improves your chances for a long and successful career in the arts or sciences.

Once you’re a student at St. Francis College, you’ll still be able to take advantage of all the city has to offer, as you’ll only be two subway stops from Manhattan. You’ll be able to communicate and interact with other students within the school, which will only enhance and improve your English skills. The longer you’re a student at the college, the more refined your skills will be as a bilingual (or trilingual!) – the benefits are truly endless.

Since this is a new partnership between the two institutions, be sure to ask your administrators for as much detailed information as possible so you can make the best decisions for yourself. If you’re ready to declare an area of study as soon as you transfer to St. Francis, you can do so. If you need more time to better articulate what you might want to focus on in your studies, you can also do so with the help of the administrative offices at St. Francis. You’ll absolutely want to take advantage of all the informative resources they have at each institution.

It’s no secret that living in New York City offers tremendous exposure to endless cultures, and if you continue your education from New York English Academy to St. Francis College, you’ll also be able to be in the midst of all this culture while expanding your personal and professional qualifications. This a partnership that you should absolutely take advantage of!