What is your work experience in the field of international education?
I’ve been in the international education industry since 2016.
What brought you to the field of education?
OHLA Schools, one of the leading English institutions in the US, is a family-run business. I’ve been raised by educators; my grandfather owned schools in Colombia and my mother started the business in 1998. However, education, curiosity and growth are what drive me in life. We are here to constantly evolve as humans and what a reward to be a part of that for people.
How long have you worked in this establishment and how would you describe your experience in this position?
I’ve been at OHLA Schools for 7 years and it has been a gratifying experience to see the positive impact we’ve had in students’ lives. Giving people the opportunity to change their lives for the better by coming to study in the US. It’s also been rewarding in that you get to connect with people from across the world with all cultural backgrounds and beliefs.
What makes English so special for families from all over the world?
In 2023, statistics show there are about 1.5 billion people around the world who speak English both natively and as a second language. English is the global language for business, tourism, aviation, sciences, and media (to name a few).
It is most essential for families in that this will allow for the younger generations to have innumerable employment opportunities within and outside their birth country.
What are the most important factors parents should consider when choosing a school?
That the school views their students as individuals instead of cash flow. Unfortunately, there are institutions whose main priority is to sell their programs and lose sight that this is a big step for the students and their families. Embarking on a new journey in a new country can be frightening, so having the support of the staff members and students will be vital to a successful studying-abroad experience.
What is the best time to apply to English schools? What should students prepare for?
At the age of 18, after graduating high school, students are naturally transitioning towards adulthood. The best time to study English abroad is before starting university, as this will give them the needed time to reflect on what career path they wish to commence.
Students should prepare for independence when studying abroad. They will be the ones in charge of studying, attending classes, cooking, cleaning, bills and laundry. Stepping out of their comfort zones is the quintessential way to discovering who they are.
Do all schools strive to be ranked among the best?
I would hope so! Delivering quality should be every school's objective.
How has the number of students been affected by COVID-19?
The number of students decreases for 2020, however, our then active students remained in the US on our online program for the entirety of the pandemic.
Fortunately, international students want to travel now more than ever. Florida being a popular destination due to the diversity and weather, we are now back to pre-pandemic numbers.
At what age do foreign students usually enter English schools?
Our programs are for ages 16+. Nonetheless, the average age of our student population is between the ages of 18-35.
What expenses await parents during the year, apart from accommodation and tuition fees?
Parents will need to budget for:
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Passport and visa expenses
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Airfare
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Meals
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Local transportation
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Essential hygiene supplies
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Entrance cost to local sights
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Guilt-free spending money
Can your graduates apply for universities in other countries? What support do students receive?
Students that complete our Advanced 2 (Bachelor’s) or Elite (Master’s) levels can move on to American universities without the need to take the TOEFL/IELTS examinations. Through our partnerships with over 200 institutions our students are assisted by our Higher Education Advisors entering top-ranked universities. We also support students in obtaining the F-1 student visa.
