Your Best Tool for Abroad & Learning English

When learning a new skill or subject, it’s pretty customary to start in the classroom. Finding out the history of a discipline is a typical introduction to your area of study so that you can get a grand idea of the evolution of your focus. From there, however, as you advance in your studies, it’s also customary to branch out into the real world to better understand real-world implementation and integration.

This is easily applicable for learning a new or foreign language. When you’re in the beginning stages of learning the basics, classroom application is the best avenue for logistics and application. As you advance in your studies, you’ll want to practice your real-world application for a better idea of where your strengths lie and how you can improve in other areas. This means it’s a great idea to immerse yourself in the real world to put your skills to use and interact with other people.

If you’re considering a career in TESOL to not only enhance and perfect your English-speaking skills but also elevate your teaching abilities, there’s truly no better place than New York City to get your training. The New York English Academy is located in the heart of the Big Apple, meaning you can be exposed to expert native English speakers but be immersed in one of the largest cultural hubs in the world.

Value of the TESOL Program

If you plan on pursuing the academic track of gaining your TESOL certification, the New York English Academy organizes the program so that courses are instructed by English-speaking teachers, guaranteeing that you’ll get an organic learning experience. Plus, the program is set up so that there are different learning methods incorporated so that you can practice your skills in a variety of sets, from group work to role playing to even scavenger hunts. Everyone learns differently, so the TESOL program is designed to cater to all of those varying learning methods.

New York City is a culturally diverse place to be, with individuals from all over the world coming to experience the greatest city in the world. This means that there are hundreds of languages being poured into the neighborhood on a regular basis. When you’re out and about in the city, no matter how strong your English language skills are, it’s the perfect opportunity to put your learnings to use. You’ll likely run into others that speak a language other than English, which will also help you understand how you can communicate with your body language – which is helpful no matter where you are or what language you speak!

New York City: The World’s Melting Pot

Even if you’re still trying to perfect and polish your English skills as a member of the TESOL program, you’ll have the opportunity for PLENTY of real-world experience and application right here in New York City. Because the city itself is a huge cultural melting pot, you’ll be exposed to so many different people with endless backgrounds. Given your ability to speak at least two languages, you might be able to help others that have no English experience at all, putting your own personal English skills to use. In the process, you’ll learn about other cultures, which will help you bring those learned experiences back to your classroom both as a student and as a future educator yourself.

New York City is always different and is constantly changing. You’ll experience things that you love and things that aren’t necessarily your favorite. This aligns with the TESOL program at the New York English Academy. Because everyone learns differently and absorbs information in various ways, the program is designed to cater to all these different teaching and learning methods so that not one student is in the dark. Aligning with these experiences in New York City means that you will easily approach your eventual teaching abilities with the same flexibility and patience, allowing your students to find their own best personal method.

Why New York English Academy

American English is now the standard English dialect, moving away from UK English. With that said, learning this dialect in the heart of not only American culture but international culture means that you can take your learned skills and apply them to the biggest cultural melting pot in the world: New York City. Not only will you love your experience in the Big Apple, but your learned skills will be best put to use and you’ll thrive!

Listen, I know I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it every year. Summer is NOT my favorite season. I like the emotional feeling of summer – feeling free, having the longer days, taking vacations, and all that good stuff. But weather wise? NOT my favorite time of the year. I’m fair-skinned, and I’ll admit, I do in fact have a low tolerance for extreme heat. So with that, I tend to get sick of the summer season pretty quickly and start looking forward to fall by the middle of July. But even then, August is the epitome of the dog days of summer. The hottest days of the season tend to fall in this month, so my biggest recommendation for you this month is to enjoy the outdoors, but also prepare for activities that will be indoors to take advantage of the air conditioning and relief from the sun.

Because of this heat, many people tend to take their summer vacations during this month and flock to areas with beach access. The city tends to quiet down because of this, which means it’s a great opportunity for you to explore and grab your friends for ways you can practice your English skills. This month, I’m including things to do that are indoors, so if you’re anything like me, you can get through this last round of summer without feeling like you’re going to pass out.

1. The Rolling Stones, August 1, 2019, MetLife Stadium

No matter where you call home or what language is your first, you know that The Rolling Stones are one of the most iconic musical acts of our time. Around since the 1960s, this group has evolved throughout the decades to be one of the most legendary faces of rock and roll. As these group members age through time, it might be a great idea to see them now, as we’ll never really know when their next tour will be their last. Catch them while you still can! If you can’t make the show, you can do the next best thing and listen to their full portfolio – it’s a great way to get familiar with their music AND give your English skills a true through song!

2. New York Cocktail Expo, August 18, 2019, Long Island City, NY

As I mentioned above, there’s a spirit about summer that just means taking a load off and enjoying your time away, either from school or work. And truly, what better way to enjoy the summer than attend an event that’s all about mixed drinks?? Gather your friends for the day and arrange a ride home beforehand so you won’t have to worry about after a day of tasting and sampling new spirits and cocktails. As the most attended cocktail event in New York, you can interact with hundreds of other people from all over the city to find out what their favorite drinks are, what they learned, and their advice for making the most of your day. Be sure to hydrate and drink plenty of water this day!

3. Color Factory, SoHo

Originally created and celebrated in San Francisco, this collaborative experience has now migrated to New York City. It’s a huge celebration of color, which will make you feel alive and excited with all of the visions. If you’re serious about your Instagram, this is a great destination for you, as you’ll have plenty of opportunities to show your followers what you’re up to in New York City. A great way to not only meet more people is to include English language hashtags in your posts so you can interact with others that experienced the exhibit and learn how they appreciated the event.

New York City is the city that never sleeps or calms down. It’s also a heat box in August, so I of course recommend always having a plan for staying indoors to escape the heat. Just as there are endless things to do outside, there are also plenty of opportunities to stay cool indoors. From museums and restaurants to expos and pop-up events, you really won’t have to worry about running out of things to do. Worst case scenario, you can also just save your money and stay indoors and catch up on your Netflix queue – what better way to get your English listening skills in! Get your friends together, and come up with a plan for the hottest month in New York City – and be sure to hydrate this month!

I’m sure that I’ve mentioned this before, but one of the reasons I love summers in New York City is that everyone seems to be in constant relaxation mode. The subways are lighter since more people are spending more time outside, and the mood always seems happier when the weather is warm and inviting. Don’t get me wrong – July can be an intense month when it comes to the heat and the power of the sun, so I have to stress how important it is to be safe and protect your skin. Hydrate often, and be prepared with sunscreen.

With that sad, there are always a ton of activities available in New York City in the summer, and July is no exception. With the 4^th of July holiday early in the month, you might notice that traffic and general population is quite light this week, as most people disappear to other pockets of the country to celebrate the holiday. (This is another reason why I love this month in the city – it feels like I have the entire place to myself!)

Given the friendly vibe that this weather gives to people, this is a great time to put your English-speaking skills to use with those around you, whether they’re your friends or even strangers. The summer is also a time that attracts tourists from all over the world, so keep an open mind because you never know who you might meet!

1. Waterfront Day, July 13^th

Honestly, what better way to enjoy the sun AND the water than spending some time in Manhattan’s Seaport District? With tons of activities to participate in and plenty of scenic views to remind you that you live in the greatest city in the world, you can easily spend all day in this area. Due to the increase of tropical storms and rising seas, you’ll also be able to learn about how you and your community can help to preserve the area. Pick up brochures to practice your English reading skills, check out social to see what everyone else is saying and help with the written conversation, and engage with other event-goers to find out what other activities they participated in so you can use your English-speaking skills!

2. Ozy Fest, July 20^th and 21^st, Central Park

If you plan enough ahead for this one, this is a can’t-miss event. Dubbed as the most interactive New York City festival, you’ll be able to watch cooking demonstrations from well-known TV personalities, listen to some of the most popular musical acts, and be a part of many live discussions with many other famous personalities. With tons of international food options and the ability to meet tons of people, this is an opportune moment for you to practice your English skills with the hundreds of attendees around you. It’s the best of both worlds, so gather your friends and gear up for an exciting summer weekend in Central Park!

3. Restaurant Week, July 22^nd – August 16^th

I’ve written about this event before, but it’s too good to not repeat. If the summer heat is dragging you down and you need some relief, this is a great opportunity for you to try out some eateries that you haven’t gotten around to trying at discounted prices. The menus will offer you options that you may not have otherwise been able to try due to your budget, so this timing is a great time to try something new. And as always, this is a great opportunity for you to practice your English skills – from reading the menu to communicating with your waiter, you’ll be able to walk away from dinner happy that you tried something new and with a sense of relief from the summer heat.

Whether summer is your favorite season or one that you prefer to spend indoors, New York City has endless options for you to take advantage of everything that the city has to offer. With tons of outdoor activities and plenty of indoor things to do to escape the heat, you’ll never be bored during the month of June. With so many people being out of town this month, you’ll definitely want to explore pockets that you haven’t seen before. Plus, you’re surrounded with plenty of opportunities to give your English skills some practice and real-world use, so keep an open mind and don’t be afraid to ask for help from those around you. Happy Summer!

There are many reasons to love New York City in the start of the summer. For me, the start of summer seems to just put everyone in a great mood, which makes my daily commutes more tolerable, the interactions with my coworkers more pleasant, and the Vitamin D from all the sunshine just generally lifts my spirits overall. The temperatures aren’t super high just yet in June, so it’s still bearable to be outside. With kids being out of school, there’s also just a level of excitement in the air, all over the city. My advice for June: get outside as much as you can while the weather is still tolerable (before it gets too hot), and enjoy the sunshine!

While you’re out and about this month, the first official month of summer, be sure to think about ways you can put your English skills to use. Luckily, since this month tends to bring everyone out of their apartments and in the fresh air, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of opportunities to engage with other people. Here are a few things going on during the month of June for ideas on how you can not only have fun and take advantage of this amazing city but also put your English speaking skills to use.

1. Governors Ball, Friday, May 31st – Sunday, June 2^nd, Randalls Island Park

This is a pretty huge event that takes place every year, and it’s a pretty deal in New York City. As a three-day music festival, it can draw in thousands of people, so really think ahead if this is something you want to attend! While you’re there though, it’s a great experience to be around so many iconic musicians and all the other huge fans. For some unique English practice, look up some of the artists on the lineup for the event, and start learning their music. It’s a great way to not only learn more music and genres, but it’s a great way to learn some new English words and maybe you’ll even connect with other fellow fans while you’re there.

2. Gay Pride, all of June (Gay Pride March is Sunday, June 30^th)

If you haven’t noticed by now, New York City is one of the gay pride capitals of the world. Many people come to New York City just to experience the culture of openness and acceptance that the city has to offer for those that do not identify as heterosexual. Events all over the city will be held for the entire month of June to commemorate this movement, so you’ll be sure to see tons of rainbow symbols during this month. You can get involved by attending one of the many comedy shows, art exhibits, marches, and even the music festival held at Pier 97. So gather all of your supportive friends and take part in this really crucial, social movement. You can practice your English by sharing your support with members of the LGBTQ community and praising their bravery and pride.

3. Shakespeare in the Park, through June 23^rd, Central Park

This is another one of those New York City staples. Since the 1960s, this series produces free performances at the outdoor Delacorte Theater in Central Park. For the month of June, Much Ado About Nothing runs Tuesdays through Sundays at 8 pm. These events are wildly popular because not only are they outside in the summer night, but they’re free! On top of that, many noteworthy and iconic actors have taken part in these productions, so there’s almost always a great chance that you might experience a legendary performance! If you’re new to Shakespeare, this is a great chance for you to be exposed to the greatest playwright of our time. Or, you could read the play before watching it so you’ll get your English reading in as well as your English listening practice in. It’s a double win! P.S. Bring a blanket – the nights can still be pretty chilly in June!

Whether you’re looking for something low-key or something intense, you should know by now that New York City has everything to offer, no matter what you’re seeking. Also, don’t forget that the Big Apple is a huge melting pot, meaning that people from all over the world live in this great city, so there’s always an opportunity for you to put your English classroom skills to practice in the real world – and there’s no better teacher than the streets of one of the greatest cities in the world!

By now, you’re probably enjoying the warmer weather, the sunnier days, and the ability to move around without layers of scarves and heavy jackets. I know May is definitely one of my favorite months in New York City because people tend to be happier now that the weather is just a bit more pleasant. In addition to that, people want to spend as much time as they can outdoors to enjoy the fresh air and the feel of the warm sun on their skin, so you might notice that the sidewalks are more congested and the parks just have more people there.

One of the best ways to practice your English is to completely immerse yourself in the real world around others that speak the language. There are so many great opportunities to do that in New York City, as so many more people are out and about this month. So I’ve compiled some of the best activities that you can take advantage of and still be able to put your learned English skills to use – all while being in the greatest city in the world!

1. Billy Joel at Madison Square Garden, May 9

If you don’t know who Billy Joel is, I suggest you look him up. Chances are, you’ve heard of his music, as he’s been around for decades now and has made a tremendous impact on the world of rock and roll. Since 2014, Billy Joel has been a franchise of Madison Square Garden, meaning that he has agreed to perform at this venue once a month indefinitely. While this means that you can actually catch this living legend any month that you want, I decided to include it in this month’s round simply because it was time! I suggest downloading a few of his albums and practice your English by the way of music! You won’t regret it, I promise you!

2. International Food Fest, 9^th Avenue, May 18 – 19

For fifteen blocks stretching up 9^th Avenue is this amazing two-day event to give you plenty to see and try. Entry into this festival is free, but I recommend bringing along some spending money because you’ll absolutely want to try all the foods available here since the tastes and bites come from all over the world. In addition to food, there’s tons of entertainment, like music, dancing, and of course, vendors. I included this event since most of you reading this come from all areas all over the world, so this is a great opportunity to get a little taste of home while you’re also learning more about other cultures – in the span of just a mile in New York City! Plus, with all these various cultures in this area, you’ll be immersed in many other languages as well, so this is your chance to not only put your English skills to use but to perhaps learn phrases from other parts of the world, too!

3. BrunchCon, Brooklyn Expo Center, May 20

So, if you’re anything like me, you love a good, hearty brunch on an early weekend afternoon. After a few Bloody Mary’s and an excellent Eggs Benedict, my Sunday Scaries seem to just go away. So, I’m particularly excited about this event, as this is your chance to try out all the great restaurants that specialize in this in-between meal, and you can finally get the chance to try out all the dishes and drinks that you weren’t sure of before. Plus, interacting with these restaurateurs and other event-goers will give your English-speaking skills some exercise. So, put on your stretchy pants and get to this brunch event!

I really do love the month of May – it reminds me of my childhood when the end of the school year was near, and that excited feeling comes back to me every single year since. Plus, the end of May is the unofficial kick-off to summer, so there’s so much to do in this great city and plenty to see. And the best part is that so many new things continue to pop up month after month, so you’ll never be bored. Grab a group of friends and start thinking of all the things you want to do and see in the next couple of months because time will go by quickly! Don’t forget to put your English skills to use with everyone you interact with – before you know it, you’ll be speaking English without even thinking about it!

April is one of my favorite months in New York City. I’ve put my winter coats and scarves into storage, I open my windows for fresh spring air, and I tend to take more walks outside to enjoy the warmer temperatures and longer days. It just generally heightens my mood. With that said, I also tend to be more socially active once these spring days roll around, meaning I’m exploring the city more and enjoying life outside my apartment more often.

If you’re new to the English language and looking to gain some real-world NYC experience with it, these activities will provide you the opportunities to practice with your friends and other New Yorkers. After all, the Big Apple is a giant cultural melting pot, meaning there are thousands in this city that speak other languages themselves, looking to enhance their own English skills. Here are a few things to do this month in New York City that will keep you entertained while you fine-tune your English.

1. Pillow Fight, Washington Square Park, April 6^th

This is a bit of a different one, and this is the first I’m hearing of this event myself, so I’m interested in finding out more about it, as I think I’ll be attending this year! Whether you choose to participate or simply watch the comedy show in front of you, it’ll surely give you plenty of entertainment for the day. Bring your own pillow or stuffed animal for some innocent fun, and you never know who you may meet while reliving your childhood, so come prepared with your best getting-to-know-you English phrases, and get ready to have some fun. What’s really cool is that this is actually an international event as well, so cities from all over the world will be participating in this on the same day, meaning you can be a part of this on an international level, too! Be sure to follow whatever hashtag they create for social media to follow all the other global events!

2. Earth Day, April 22^nd

Every year on this day, the nation comes together to pay attention to how we’re treating our environment and give back a bit to Mother Earth. Since the weather on this day is typically pleasant and warm enough to enjoy the outdoors, this is a great opportunity for you to spend some time in the many amazing parks that New York City has to offer. If you wanted to take it one step further, you can look into ways that you can volunteer to make the city a greener place by planting blooms or cleaning up your neighborhood. Many people also choose to completely turn off their devices, lowering their carbon footprint for the day. For some English practice, turn off your phone and have a picnic in the park and have some good old-fashioned conversation. You’d be surprised at how cleansing it can feel!

3. Tribeca Film Festival, April 24th – May 5th

Every year, this festival takes place to spotlight and honor local film projects. The neighborhood during this weeklong event completely transforms to cater to those coming to the area to participate in this festival. From screenings of the movies and films to specials in area restaurants and bars, you and your friends can get a taste of current media culture right here in Tribeca. Talking about your favorites can help you practice your speaking skills, and watching the actual films can help you with your listening translation strengths. If April is a bit too rainy for your taste, another way you can honor this event is look at past film participants from prior years and hold a viewing party at your apartment.

No matter how long you’ve been in New York City or how long you’ve been practicing your English, there are endless ways to put your learnings to use. Since April is still kind of a transition month with uncertain weather patterns, it can be a bit tricky when it comes to making plans, but no matter what, you’re still in the greatest city with neverending things to do. And again, you’re surrounded with people from all over the world, so you’ll never be alone when it comes to learning English and adjusting to this great city. That’s what makes New York City one of the best places to learn and live in the world!

Living in New York City means you have access to some of the best food in the world – from global bites at your fingertips to late night guilt-trips to the food trucks, it’s pretty difficult to find food that doesn’t satisfy your tastes. With all these delightful cuisines everywhere you turn, you might be surprised at quickly your body responds to all these new foods. I know when I first got to the Big Apple, I was eating out all the time, desperate to try as many restaurants and cuisines as possible. Not only did this hurt my wallet, but I found that my body wasn’t used to all these different ingredients. Additionally, even though I was walking everywhere and climbing many flights of stairs per day, I also started to notice a change in my body shape (and not for the better).

If you’re practicing your English in New York City right now and you’re experiencing similar circumstances, I’ve come up with a few ways that you can stay in shape even while you’re still testing out all the great food this amazing city has to offer. It’s easier than you think, and all of these options are easy on your wallet. You don’t need to shell out hundreds of dollars on a gym membership – all of these strategies will get you moving with little cost. So pull out your sneakers, because if you’re ready to ditch those extra cuisine pounds, you’ll be putting them to good use.

1. Sign up for a local race

One of the benefits of living in this great city is that are always tons of races to participate in. If you’re a runner (or even if you’re not), this is a great opportunity to get a few miles under your belt. I always find that when I’m running a 5k, it never really feels like 3.2 miles because I’m running alongside so many other people and taking in all the sights around me. Most of these are reasonably priced (depending on how big it is or if you choose to donate to a fund), so do some research, grab some friends, and get some fresh air. Plus, so many of these races are socially-backed, so you’re bound to meet tons of new people and practice your English social skills.

2. Rethink your commute

Believe me, I know I’ve checked out every possible route for walking the least for my daily commute, especially when the weather is unbearable, like the deep cold or the extreme heat. On those days, I want to spend as much time in the heat or AC as possible. But if you’re looking for some free (and frankly, SUPER easy) exercise to burn off those street tacos that are too hard to resist, I highly recommend walking a few extra blocks to take a different subway line to get those extra steps in. Another easy trick I do on a daily basis is skip the escalator coming in and out of my subway stop. Instead, I’ll climb the stairs myself. While this may not make a huge difference overall, I know I’m making a better long-term choice for myself. Plus, if you devote to taking a different route, you might come across new shops or find your favorite new health store – this is a great way to keep your English reading and comprehensive skills intact.

3. Your apartment = your new gym

You might notice that these days, technology has made life way easier in many aspects. For me, I’ve learned that if you do some research on health and wellness apps, you can find your new favorite exercise regimen. If your living space has the room, set up a nice workout spot so you can start with the basics, like practicing your plank or learning some new yoga moves. For me, this was a great way to build my motivation and confidence before I worked my way up to a gym membership. Once I felt more comfortable in my healthy body, I was able to step into the gym and use their professional machines. If you’re dedicated towards your English learning, many of these apps are instructed, so this is a great way to improve your English language listening and comprehension.

Of course, I love living in this great city and trying out all the amazing foods, but I also quickly learned the effect that this lifestyle had on my body. So be sure to try these great tactics out so you can still indulge and feel healthy – all while practicing your En

March in New York City can be a tricky time of the year. In the beginning of the month, it tends to still be pretty cold and blistery, and by this unofficial tail end of winter, it can be hard to be optimistic for the warmer months. By the end of March, typically, you’ll start to notice some whispers of early spring. You might have a really sunny day with the faint sound of birds chirping. You might start to notice the weather slowly creeping towards a comfortable 50 degree benchmark. Either way, March is a transition month, which might make it difficult to decide what to do in your free time. Should you bring your jacket? What shoes should you wear?

If you’re also new to the English language, it might make these decisions even more intimidating. I’ve come up with a few things to do this month so that not only can you take full advantage of this awesome city but so you can also put your English learnings to use in real life. Your weather app will be your loyal friend this month, so before you head out, check the forecast, dress accordingly, and remember: have fun!

1. Women’s History Month; all month

You may have noticed that recently there have been tremendous progress with feminism and women’s progress. This is a crazy exciting time to be involved in all the events around the city to honor all the achievements that women have made over the decades in all walks of life, from Congress and medicine to the entertainment industry and law. Throughout the whole month, there are all sorts of events set up, so depending on where you are and what interests you and your friends, you’re bound to find something that will move and inspire you. By checking out these talks and tours, you’ll expand on your English listening and engagement skills, so there’s no better time to put your learnings to practice.

2. Big Apple Comic Con; Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 10

While this event is smaller than the New York Comic Con, you can easily have a great experience rubbing elbows with some of the most well-known comic book creators of all time. Held at the Pennsylvania Hotel across from Madison Square Garden, you’ll have two full days to check out all the events and exhibits that this event has to offer. With some guests dressed up in costume or cosplay, it can be easy to get caught up in the feeling and reminisce about your favorite comic book superheroes. Check out the itinerary, grab your friends, and start practicing your favorite admiration English phrases, like, “I grew up with your work,” or “It’s such an honor meeting you.”

3. United Airlines Half Marathon; Sunday, March 17

If by chance you were able to check out the NYC Marathon in November, you’ll remember just how invigorating it was to cheer on so many participants as they stretched their physical limits all over the boroughs of New York City. If you’re chasing that same feeling, check out this half marathon will give you that fix. While this tour is obviously half in length as the race in November, the spirit remains. Starting in Brooklyn and ending in Central Park, you have amazing choices when it comes to where you want to take in your sights. Make signs cheering the runners on (great English writing practice) or pick out your favorite English optimism chants.

March is a fickle time of year, pretty much no matter where you go. It can be difficult planning your weekends when you’re not sure what the weather will be like, but keep in mind that you’re living in one of the best cities in the world, with so much to offer when it comes to activities. I always tell my visiting friends that if the weather is too extreme, don’t forget about all the museums New York City has so you can not only escape the harsh weather effects, but you can also be in the presence of incredible art and history. Always keep these options in the back of your mind when you’re making your plans. And as I always say, New York City is a huge melting pot, so if you’re trying to find ways to put your English learning skills to use in real time, don’t forget that you’re surrounded by thousands of other cultural transplants that are happy to help you!

February 14^th of every year is Valentine’s Day, which is a holiday in which people in love will take the day to celebrate their union and loving relationship. Single people will use this day to express their love and appreciation to their friends and family members. No matter your relationship status, Valentine’s Day is a time for everyone to reflect on the value that those in their loves bring to their hearts. You might see that during this time of the year, New York City turns red and pink and covered in hearts and chocolates—it’s hard NOT to feel the love around this holiday!

As a resident of New York City, you have probably noticed that not everyone here is lucky enough to have loved ones or the things that show the appreciation and love of others. From those without homes to others feeling a bit lonely, Valentine’s Day can be a tough time of year for these people. It’s common for donations and giving back behaviors to take place during Thanksgiving, but it’s also important to remember that those in need are in need all year long. So if you’re looking to spread the love this year beyond your immediate circle of friends and family and your significant other, here are a few ways you can do so this Valentine’s Day in New York City. And if you’re looking to practice your English here, I’ve included ways you can do so while giving back.

1. New York Cares

This is an organization that gathers all the ongoing events and initiatives throughout the city in which you can give back. It will help you find specific opportunities that interest you depending on your availability and location. During the month of February, staying warm is one of the primary concerns of those in need, so you can look into donating cold weather necessities, like coats, hats, boots, and gloves. Staying fed and nourished is another ongoing requirement, so you can also look into donating food to kitchens and volunteer centers. So many of these people often feel overlooked or forgotten about, especially during the times of the year when the rest of the world is caught up in their own little bubbles. So this is your chance to open your heart to those in greater need.

2. Second Chance Rescue NYC Dogs

Does your living situation allow for a furry friend? If so and if you’ve got the time and dedication to take in a dog, this is another great way to share the love this Valentine’s Day. So many of these poor animals have been abused or abandoned and need a loving home. This is where you or your friends come in! You can easily spread the word via your social channels or tell others in your school about this initiative, and you’re bound to find someone that can help this cause. The greatest thing about taking in one of these animals is the love you receive back from these four-legged pups, so it’s reciprocal! Brush up on your English training terms and before you know it, you’ll have a fully trained dog on your hands. And if you’re living situation doesn’t allow dogs, you can just as easily spread the word – awareness is half the battle!

3. The Samaritans NYC

I saved this one for last because I think this arena of attention is one in which we all need to be more educated. This prevention center focuses on mental health and battling crisis. Now more than ever, we as a society need to be better trained on mental health awareness and simply listening to those struggling and in need. This group provides emotional support for those that are suffering and need additional help, and you can become involved with this by being a volunteer. You’ll have to undergo intensive training, but once it’s complete, you’ll be more articulate about how to communicate, which of course will help your English skills as well. So many of these people that need help don’t feel that they have enough love in their heart, so this is your chance to help them fill that void. You never know just how much you’re capable of, and the same can be said of those that turn to The Samaritans; volunteering can provide mutual wholeness.

Valentine’s Day in New York City doesn’t have to be just about the loved ones in YOUR life. You can spread the love in so many other ways!

I know I’ve told you all before how the winter in New York City can be pretty brutal. The low temperatures and the trying weather conditions can really convince you to stay inside as much as possible and hibernate, and it becomes easy to ignore all the beauty that takes place outside your apartment. The shorter days also tend to make me more tired, which also means it’s harder to convince me to bundle up and head outside. But one of my New Year’s resolutions for 2019 is to appreciate this great city even more than I already do, and that means that I need to get out there more often!

So this post is to not only help keep you occupied for the month of February, but it’s also meant to encourage me to do the same exploring! So we’re in this together!

I’ve come up with a list of things to do this month in New York City that will also test your English speaking skills outside of the classroom. I can’t emphasize enough just how lucky you are to be in the Big Apple as you’re adjusting to a new language because as I’ve said many times before, this place is a melting pot, full of all kinds of other languages, ethnicities, and cultures, meaning that you’re quite literally surrounded by learning opportunities. So without further ado, here’s your list of things to do and see this February in New York City!

1. New York Fashion Week; multiple locations; February 8 – February 16

If you don’t know by now, New York City is one of the most well-known and popular fashion capitols of the world. Think about all your friends that ask you questions about the fashion and style trends in the Big Apple. The biggest style magazines are headquartered in NYC, meaning that the greatest trendsetters and fashion icons are also here during this famed week. While the main event isn’t open to the general public, there are events happening related to Fashion Week all over the city. From salons organizing special events and high-end fashion boutiques holding premiere sales and opportunities, you can surely feel like you’re one of the elite during this week. Be prepared for English speakers to ask you, “Who are you wearing?” or “Where did you get that?” this week, and this is your chance to show off your English!

2. The Westminster Kennel Club 143^rd Annual Dog Show; Piers 92/94, Madison Square Garden, February 9 – February 12

If you’re a pup fan and need a little cheering up this dreary winter season, check out the events during this exciting period of time in New York City. Because this event falls so close in the calendar to the Super Bowl and it’s a “best of the best” competition, you’ll often hear this called “the Super Bowl for dogs.” You can watch on as owners and trainers show off their furry friends for the chance to win the title. Prior to the event, practice your English by doing your research on your favorite pups so you can chat up with other dog fans while you’re there. Plus, this is a great way to meet new people, so come prepared with your best social English skills.

3. On Location Tours; all over New York City; ongoing

The weather in February will surely convince you to find activities indoors to escape the low temperatures and uncomfortable weather conditions. Since this tends to be a slower month for things to do here, I wanted to include an activity that you can take advantage of any time of the year. These tours will take you all over the city to show you where some of the most iconic television shows and movies took place. Do you have a favorite show that filmed in the Big Apple? Chances are, this group will show you spots where that show filmed! From Friends, Sex and the City, SpiderMan, Ghostbusters, and more, you can check out all the iconic spots, making you feel like part of the movie. To brush up on your English before the tour, watch a few episodes of Seinfeld or watch Men in Black to refresh your memory (and your English skills), then hop on the bus!

Listen, February is tough for all of us New Yorkers. The weather and short days keep us inside more often than out, but let’s do our best to get out there and see all that New York City has to offer—just bundle up!