Cultural Enrichment

The Cultural Enrichment program is designed for students seeking to develop and enhance their English language skills while living in the United States. Students engage in a variety of experiences and exercises in which they are given opportunities to learn through conversation, reading, and writing.

Courses provide a fun yet educational way for au pairs, international students and non-native English speakers to practice and improve their English speaking skills, grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension of the English language. Additional courses explore American customs, culture, history, and entertainment.

This unique program offers students the chance to design their own schedules, based on individual educational goals throughout the year. Our program is ideal for au pairs, international students, and non-native English speakers who are interested in new educational experiences in a college environment, allowing them to study a variety of subjects.

All classes are held on the University of Richmond campus and taught by highly qualified instructors who utilize a variety of educational methods to lead effective and rewarding class sessions. The total number of hours for course completion includes in-class instruction, as well as some work and assignments to be completed at home.

Program Details

Weekend Enrichment courses provide opportunities to focus on particular subjects, while our Personal Enrichment and Professional Development courses offer students the flexibility to select from many other topics.

For Au Pairs, recommended schedules may include Weekend Course(s), Advanced English/TOEFL Prep, and First Aid/CPR combined with other Personal Enrichment and Professional Development courses.

No language proficiency exams are required for this program. SCS staff and instructors reserve the opportunity to recommend placement in appropriate levels where necessary, based on student levels of English proficiency and skills. We want to ensure that all students derive the maximum benefit from the course.

Cultural Enrichment Courses
Advanced English TOEFL Prep / Spring
Course Offerings (1)
April 16 through June 6
Mondays and Wednesdays: 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Instructor: Deborah Westin
CRN: CECP312.60
Fee: $365
Description
Are you planning to enter a college or university in the United States or abroad? Are you currently working as an Au Pair in the USA? Join us this semester and enhance your English speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension skills! Our popular 8 week course will allow you to improve your English language skills and will introduce you to educational and fun learning experiences. If you are planning to take the TOEFL exam, this course provides excellent preparation for you. (Au Pairs may earn up to 40 hours for successful completion of all course requirements and participation.)

Cassatt Art Weekend
Course Offerings (1)
May 4 through May 6
Fridays: 4:00 - 8:00 pmSaturdays and Sundays: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Instructors: Donna Allen; Corinne Nguyen
CRN: CECP212.12
Fee: $320
Course CANCELED (4/16)
Description
Well-known for her paintings depicting the intimate bonds existing between mothers and children, Mary Cassatt's work in oil and pastel captures scenes from the domestic and intimate moments of everyday life. Celebrate a devoted life! Students will explore specific drawing and watercolor techniques for painting their own representations of that special bond that forms with children in order to complete two original pieces.

Professional and Social Etiquette Course
Course Offerings (2)
Saturday, June 23
10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Instructor: Patricia Gallagher
CRN: CECP312.20
Fee: $89
Saturday, July 21
10:00 am - 7:00 pm
Instructor: Patricia Gallagher
CRN: CECP312.21
Fee: $89
Description
Join us this summer for our exciting and unique courses introducing professional and social etiquette and customs. These courses are especially designed to introduce important business and communication skills, and to increase cultural awareness while here in the US. Topics include: business manners, interviewing skills, resume and letter writing, dining etiquette, social customs, and other special topics. Our Professional and Social Etiquette Saturday courses are ideal for au pairs and any international student seeking to improve communication skills, and to feel more confident and prepared in social and business settings. Course fee includes books, materials, excursion fees, lunch and dinner during the session. Please register early, as space is limited. (Au pairs may earn up to 12 hours for successful completion of course requirements and attendance.)

Professional and Social Etiquette Mini-Course
Course Offerings (1)
Saturday, May 19
3:00 - 7:00 pm
Instructor: Patricia Gallagher
CRN: CECP212.22
Fee: $55
Course CANCELED (4/24)
Description
Our mini-course is a wonderful opportunity to learn important business and communication skills, and to increase your cultural awareness while here in the US. Topics include: business manners, interviewing skills, resume and letter writing, dining etiquette, social customs, and other special topics. Course fee includes books, materials, and dinner at UR during the session. (Au pairs may earn up to 6 hours for successful completion of course requirements and attendance.)


Cultural Enrichment Program

Mary C. Raymond
Coordinator, Special Programs
School of Continuing Studies
Special Programs Building
University of Richmond, VA 23173

Phone: (804) 287-6302
Fax: (804) 289-8138
mraymond@richmond.edu

Main SCS Desk Hours
Monday–Thursday: 8:30 am–7:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 am–5:00 p.m.
The office is closed for all University holidays unless otherwise noted.

Accommodations

For special hotel promotional rates and discounts contact Mary C. Raymond, Coordinator, at 804-287-6302 or