Rebecca Hawk

Director Academic English Language Programs
Framingham State University

What inspired you to work in this field? 
For several years, I was working internationally on environmental and policy problems and at the same time teaching English language skills to people from around the world. This dual perspective helped me see how critical good communication skills are for involving people from everywhere to solve the global problems that now face the world. English provides the common language for promoting this communication. 

What are the challenges you've faced? 
I have worked for more than 10 years at a wonderful university with a rich history in educating students to achieve great things. We have highly qualified instructors who have traveled the world and contribute unique qualifications for teaching international communication skills. The challenge is making sure that people who would like to improve their English language skills hear about our Academic English Language Programs and come to our campus for learning.  

What do you hope to achieve in the future? 
I would like to continue expanding our program of language instruction so that more students will benefit from gaining language skills, confidence, and knowing how to engage in further international education. My goal is to help every student who comes to us to contribute more to their families, their communities, their countries, and the world. 

If you can give 1 or 2 pieces of advice to our prospective international students, what would it be? 

• If you have a dream of studying in the USA, don’t let anything obstruct you. Do not give up. It is not easy, but accepting the challenge of study abroad will be worthwhile during the experience and throughout the rest of your life! I have personally seen this dream being realized by thousands of students who have overcome difficulties to get to the USA and to complete their degrees or improve their careers.   
• Students should know they are not alone in this experience. At Framingham State University, we have staff and instructors who really care and help students succeed.