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One June 1, the ̽����ѡ in Missoula launched a brand new program called Vocational English as a Second Language, or simply, VESL. VESL is an innovative program for English language learners, regardless of immigration status, to explore employment related themes and gain practical skills, while improving their English proficiency. The VESL program is designed to prepare refugees and immigrants with limited English proficiency to pursue a new job, job upgrade, or education credential through an intensive and short-term bilingual class format.   

The inaugural cohort of VESL recently wrapped up the 8-week intensive program. This cohort was comprised of ten individuals, each with their own experiences and goals driving them to participate in this unique opportunity.  

Meet some VESL graduates:  

Ibrahim

Photo: Antonio Ibarra - ̽����ѡ in Missoula

Ibrahim was resettled in Missoula, MT five months ago after having to leave his home country of Syria.  Since his arrival, Ibrahim has been learning and adjusting to life in his new home in Missoula. One of the things he has done to make that adjustment is enrolling in the ̽����ѡ in Missoula's VESL program.

For Ibrahim, the program has allowed him to increase his English language skills and be prepared to secure his first job opportunity in the United States. 

Before moving to Missoula, Ibrahim enjoyed his work in Syria as a driver and bank security officer. His future goals include seeking employment in Missoula in a similar field to his previous work and to improve his English abilities to seek better employment opportunities. 

“It is very important to me to learn how to speak English and to learn how to read and write it,” Ibrahim said. “When I started VESL I found that I have improved my understanding of English.” 

Ibrahim said the class has been very helpful and has allowed him to continue working on his English-speaking skills. Throughout his time in VESL, Ibrahim said he has enjoyed the class and found the programs, lessons and teaching techniques to be very helpful and useful. Ibrahim hopes that he will soon be fluent English since the language is, “In my head now.”   

Ibrahim hopes to continue to learn English and apply it to his job search and said he is extremely grateful for the VESL program as it has not only taught him English, but also given him knowledge on how to buy a house and use credit cards. Ibrahim found a lot of joy in the work he was doing in Syria, and he hopes he can find the same happiness in Missoula. 

Sondos

Sondos, who did not wish to be photographed, arrived from Syria and has been in Missoula for almost two years now.  Throughout that time, Sondos has settled into life in Missoula and has been actively working.  She is learning English through the ̽����ѡ’s VESL program and hopes her learnings will help her seek other employment opportunities in the future. 

During Sondos’ time adjusting to her new life in the United States, she was able to land a job in Missoula working at Huckleberry People as a chocolate maker. Huckleberry People is a local company that makes an assortment of huckleberry sweet treats. 

Although Sondos has not had to rely much on English at her job, she has been able to work daily on her English listening skills. The English she learned in the VESL program has helped her to listen and follow conversations in English at her workplace and learn more about workforce environments in the U.S. 

Sondos said the class has been helpful in advancing her ability to understand English and begin to speak it.  After VESL, Sondos wants to continue her English education through opportunities offered at the Lifelong Learning Center in Missoula and continue to hone her language skills in preparation for future employment opportunities. 

It takes a community

We would like to take a moment to recognize a few local businesses that made generous in-kind donations to enhance the vocational and experiential learning components of the VESL classes. 

Thank you for your contributions and for enriching our VESL courses! 

The second VESL cohort started in late August. If you or someone you know might be interested in participating in an upcoming VESL cohort, please fill out this to let us know.