Testimonials - Excerpts



What students and tutors/mentors have to say about the program...

This program is a great chance to meet Americans, get to know their culture, learn English and discover San Diego! It really helped me upon arrival to get settled in San Diego and made my year a fun experience. If you want to go to potlucks, dinner parties or have a huge turkey on Thanksgiving, just join the program, meet San Diegans and tons of students from all over the world.

Jochen Bercker (Germany), Student

I've enjoyed the program a lot. My mentor has showed me a lot about the American way of life and holidays. I have also very much enjoyed doing things with other students in the program, like the trips to WAP and the Zoo, the Potluck and the Pre-Christmas dinner at the Price’s.

Maria Bjorkstrom (Sweden), Student

Our tutor/mentor is great. She is always aware of our needs and tries her best to help us as much as possible. With her help, we have the opportunity to improve our oral English skills significantly. We are able to talk about current events and discuss social issues. We are learning more about American culture while she is learning about our country, our culture and us. It's great that people like her find time to volunteer to programs like this for which Marcel and I are able to learn from and benefit the most. Thank you!

Pamela Canepa & Marcel Boerner (Chile), Students

My experience as a mentor has been enriching and fulfilling. My strong friendship with my students has developed from exchanging of our cultural differences and our common enthusiasm for learning about each other as individuals. I am extremely pleased with the program.

Ivy Chen, Tutor/Mentor

Thanks to the Tutor-Mentor program! It gives me lots of joy as well as valuable experiences. My tutor Bill is a very nice person. He helped me a lot on improving my spoken English. And, he also helped me to know more about American society. We always enjoy the time we spent together. We traveled many places of interest in San Diego, and we also hike together sometimes. As long as you stay in this program, you won’t feel lonely anymore!

Xiaofei Chen (China), Student

Special greetings and the best of wishes to you and your family! Although my stay in San Diego was limited, my tutor/mentor Tom Warner and his wife Sherry have been instrumental in providing me with various cultural experiences from family dinners to Holiday parties. They also helped me improve my English communication skills as well as making me feel at home away from home. I’ve met students in the program who have been wonderfully nice to me like Bo Kwon. I’ve had terrific time here.

Thank you Tom and Sherry for all your help and kindness and thank you Gigie and Larry for giving me the opportunity to learn and enjoy the program. Thank you all for your kindness and everything you did for me. Please accept my sincere appreciation for all your contribution to much of the pleasure of my stay in San Diego. I hope something will bring you to China soon so that I can reciprocate your kindness. May Happiness follow wherever you go.

Yushu Chen (China), Visiting Scholar

Thank you for helping me learn English and American culture. I am back in Korea and I miss San Diego.

Heyran Cho (Korea), Student

I just want to thank you for all that you do for us. You are a very great person. This tutoring program provided me specific help that I wanted here in California. With my very nice tutors/mentors, I was able to improve my English skills and learned how and when to use American idioms and slang.

This program gave me exactly what I was looking for because I'm only here for one semester to participate in a student volunteer project so I don’t have enough time to enroll in English courses. In addition, learning academic English would not have been as much fun! Thank you again.

Thierry Ciszewski (France), Staff Volunteer for Challenge X Competition-Hybrid Cars

I am not sure who benefits more from the tutor-mentor program, the student or the mentor. By meeting someone from another culture who is striving to speak and understand the English language, I find myself questioning not only what I say, but why I say the things I do. I have looked at our expressions with humor and confusion. When I struggle to explain what an idiom or euphemism means, I am struck by how little we understand our own language. More than just the language help is the invaluable experience of getting to know a person from another culture one-on-one.

I wish every American could have such an experience, to share ideas and stories. Our world would not be in such turmoil if more people had these opportunities for understanding. Thank you for your awesome work in creating these wonderful experiences!

Cheryl Converse-Rath, Tutor/Mentor

Just like last semester, I am very happy to have Frank Morkunas (and occasionally his wife, Lynn Morkunas) as Mentors. They have taken me on very interesting city tours and I have thereby come more in touch with San Diego and its culture. Frank has also taught me a lot about essential bits and pieces of American culture: baseball, slang and dialects, history and so forth. When my parents came from Germany to visit me here in San Diego, we all went out for dinner together and had a very nice evening at the Bali Hai Restaurant. Thanks for assigning me to Frank.

Jan Doering (Germany), Student

I am having such a good time with Silver, my student. She is just great. I don't know where to start with the adjectives. Warm, smart, engaged engaging, fun, kind, just a tremendous person.

We are spending many hours when we get together. We both do end up tired and silly and laughing---each of us getting tired around the same time, it seems. But we continue to laugh and talk and enjoy each other and San Diego.

Thank you for this great gift of time with Silver.

Karyn Driessen, Tutor/Mentor

Interacting with International students has been a wonderful personal experience. And the subject matter of the papers I have reviewed has been a form of continuing education.

Douglas Du Brul, Tutor/Mentor

I think it has been a lot of fun. Unfortunately I haven't had the time to see my mentor that often as our schedules have been very different. But I have enjoyed the mentor program and the chance to make new friends.

Jessica Edstorp (Sweden), Student

The Tutor/Mentor program shows us the different sides of U.S. life. We communicate with classmates all the time; they have almost the same interests and topics as we do because they are in the same department. But we need more than our classmates for social interaction.

It is difficult to find a friend outside the school environment. However, this program helps you in resolve that situation. For example, in my case, my mentor is 70 years old. He has a lot of interests that I share and know about. He gave me a good chance to learn about American culture and U.S. history, especially that he experienced history itself. He helped me a lot and gave me the confidence to live comfortably in the U.S. Thank you Mr. Mitchell and thank you directors for having a program such as this for international students.

Masashi Eguchi (Student), Japan

I just wanted to tell you how happy “I am happy to have joined the Tutor/Mentor Program for International students at SDSU. I am fairly new as a tutor/mentor but I have thoroughly enjoyed the experiences I have had so far. Last semester was so very rewarding to my husband and me, as we both liked helping Eric with his speech and language, but we also had so much fun doing things together.

All of us learned from each other about mutual customs hobbies, and families. Eric has since stayed in touch with us from Singapore and we are so happy that he wants to stay in touch with us. We really feel as though we have made a friend.

Martha Florin, Tutor/Mentor

I've forged a very close bond with my student, Huijie. I have a real stake in her accomplishments and I'm glad that I've influenced the way she sees America and Americans.

Coleen Geraghty, Tutor/Mentor

Thank you very much for all the work. I like the program. I like my tutor Stan. He is my friend now. He teaches me not only English but also a lot of stuff. He took me to Point Loma. He invited me to his house for Thanksgiving Dinner. ...I am so glad I attend the tutor program. Thank you!

Song Han (China), Student

A lot has been written about the "flat earth" and the "global society" of our new millennium, but the bonds holding it together are not just mega-corporations or international organizations. The essential links are person-to-person. Our student-mentoring program is a great example. These young people who come here are demonstrating their leadership potential and their interest in what Americans are really like. We mentors don't just help with their term papers or language skills. We show them things that they would never see and do things with them that they would not have a chance to experience. It works both ways, too. I recently had a Chinese student in my home for dinner and was amazed at her sense of discovery as I loaded the dishwasher.

To me, working with these students from other countries is a learning experience - the kind that we usually must get by traveling to their countries. I went to the Chinese New Year's Fair with the Chinese student I'm mentoring, and it was great to have her translating and telling me about the foods and customs displayed. Anyone could have attended, but this became a special event for me.

At the summer concerts in a La Mesa park, the freedom of children to leave their parents and go for a game of kick-ball on the adjacent playground was even more interesting to her than the music on stage. Through the years, I have learned to view my own life with a different perspective after sharing it with these students.

Dorothy Hewes, Ph.D., Tutor/Mentor

The tutor-mentor program at San Diego State University is immensely helpful to International students. Not only your mentors' help you better understand the American way of living but also help you improve your language/communication skills. You learn so many things which are not taught in school, and which you otherwise might learn in a hard way. When you are in a country unknown to you, it is a feeling of home away from home that you miss most.

This program allows me to feel like I am indeed home but away from home. Big thanks to Gigie and Larry, ISC and all the mentors for carrying out this program over the years.

Nandan Hodavdekar (India), Student

I really enjoy having Cesar as my tutor/mentor, although we're more like friends. He teaches me not only English, but also American and Mexican cultures and everything. I learned a lot of things while I spend time with him than in my actual classes. That is awesome!

I want to thank to Cesar and you for giving me this opportunity and priceless experience. I was really really lucky. Thank you.

Yuki Ide (Japan), Student

I wasn't expecting much from the program when I first signed up for it. I looked at it as an opportunity to go on some interesting trips and maybe meet more international students.However, what the tutor/mentor program turned out to be was a lot more than I expected. It gave me a 'home away from home' and a family far away from my own.

I found that one of the best things that this program offered was its directors: Gigie and Larry. They have just been amazing! They are very involved with their students' activities and did their best matching students with tutors/mentors. I still wonder where so much time, efforts, motivation and force come from in order to keep us students that interested. To tell the truth, they have been my dedicated mentors - I have seen them more times than both of my assigned tutors/mentors combined. Even though I recently transferred to University of San Diego and no longer in the program, we have remained in touch and spend quality time together whenever possible. I hope our relationship will always remain close because I truly enjoy "my family" in San Diego. I would like to express my immense gratitude and appreciation for the many things that they have done and continue to do for me. Thank you very much Gigie and Larry for always being there for me.

Sveta Istrati (Moldova), Student

My student from Vietnam and I went to a restaurant for lunch. He called it the ‘whole day’ buffet, because it was such an enjoyable and enriching experience. He was especially thoughtful when he wrote a message in a card for a special holiday.

My student form China emailed me her assignments for language and grammar editing. It was a tribute to read such outstanding work. The weekly two hours together have focused on culture and things that happen in America.

When my Japanese student was puzzled about jokes, we used these to learn the meanings and uses of English words. Jokes are tricks with words and challenge thinking skills in a fun way. We discussed articles and interesting stories.

The program field trips and International Student Center activities give opportunities for all of us to meet and enjoy other students as well.

How exciting that a student from France invited me to a French restaurant.

What a compliment that a student from China asked if I would tutor his wife when she comes here next semester for the first time.

We all have become friends and we accept the uniqueness of one another. It is a privilege and an honor to be a tutor and mentor. Tutors and students together are leaving this world a better place.

DrMar James, Tutor/Mentor

Being a part of the SDSU Tutor-Mentor program for the past several years has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I have had the opportunity to meet some of the nicest, brightest, most motivated young people from all parts of the world and ... as much as I have put into the program ... I feel that I have gotten at least as much out of my association with these wonderful young people.

One of the things I enjoy most is helping them to learn about America and also helping to dispel some of the inaccurate impressions they may have formed about Americans in general. They enjoy learning about and sharing holidays with our family...particularly Thanksgiving, which is so uniquely American.

Working with these delightful and very bright young people has been an exciting and rewarding experience. It has enabled me not only to assist them in working through the complexities of the English language...but perhaps, more importantly, to help them get a clearer, unbiased picture of American life and value.

Moreover, as a parent I understand how difficult it must be to have one's 19 or 20 year old son or daughter some 4,000 to 6,000 miles from home...and one of the most important services we provide is to reassure their families that someone is here to help their child through the difficulties they might encounter in a unfamiliar environment. I look forward to many more rewarding, enjoyable years as a mentor.

Allen Jay, M.D., Tutor/Mentor

My experience with my English tutor/mentor, Mr. Curtis Long, has been wonderful. In every weekly meeting, we have the chance to explore or speak about, through the English language, several different things, such as History, Art, Politics, American Culture, Latin American Culture, Music, and the particular features of the English language. He knows a lot of things which means for me like having an open book to read and learn from.

So, thank you very much for this excellent program that let us know interesting and invaluable people, and I wish you the best in order that you and the program continue giving this incredible support to every international student who needs to improve his/her communication skills in English.

Rosa Jiménez (Venezuela), Student

I can only make very positive comments about being a tutor/mentor to and for the lovely Korean students with whom I have worked. They have not only been very bright, enthusiastic and hard-working students, but delightful, warm and interesting young women. My family and friends have also enjoyed meeting and being with them and our lives have been very enriched by knowing them. I personally have become very fond of them and have always looked forward to being with them socially, as well as working with them. We have never had any problems whatsoever in communication or in general interaction. It has been a wonderfully delightful and stimulating interaction at all times.

I will welcome working with other international students in the future. I have totally appreciated being part of this program and would encourage others to do the same. It is a win/win situation for everyone.

Beda Johnson, Tutor/Mentor

My first tutor/mentor, Mr. Long, is very energetic and kind. I learned how to pronounce American words as precisely as I possibly could which was quite challenging being that I am from Korea. We talked about several academic topics and found him to be wonderful and intellectual.

Mr. Martyn, my current tutor/mentor, is also kind and friendly. He engages me with topical discussions that help me improve my English speaking ability. He tries not only to show me how Americans live but also makes time for me for practical lessons such as cooking together.

In addition, I would like to express my appreciation of yours and your husband's great efforts and energy in putting together a very impressive program and program potlucks. I really appreciate all that you do for us, international students. Thank you.

Jae-Min Jun (Korea), Student

I am Masaki and I'm doing good with Minta Ricard. She is really great and her husband Gene and grandson Paul are also awesome. We are meeting on Thursday regularly. Thank you so much for organizing, Gigie and Larry.

Masaki Kemmochi (Japan), Student

I work with them in all areas of English writing and language development: usage, grammar, syntax, idioms, etc. Through conversations and current events, the student learns about our culture and I learn of theirs.

Carol Kesner, Tutor/Mentor

My mentor Deborah corrects my papers whenever I ask for it. Also she takes me to her church every Sunday with her family. She has a very very big heart!!!

Jae Eun (Jane) Kim (Korea), Student

I would say without hesitation, "joining the Tutor/Mentor Program" at SDSU. The program was able to help me with my English studies, improve my knowledge of American culture, provided me with “family atmosphere away from home”, opportunity to enjoy field trips and entertainment parks, but most of all, it gave me great new friends from all over the world. I was able to experience all of these and more in this program.

I have several tutors/mentors during my stay in San Diego. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts really helped me improve my English skills and took care of me like a family member. Ms. Mille McCoo did not only help me with my English writing skills but also became my best friend. Millie shared with me her vast professional experience and knowledge with great enthusiasm. She continues to give me precious advice even now that I am back home in my own country. I really appreciate her continued support.

Last but not least, I would never forget the unbelievable cuisine of Gigie Price and the big hug of her husband, Larry .... and their love. They have opened their hearts and home to make me feel welcomed and appreciated. Thank you Larry and Gigie for the wonderful experience.

I miss all of my friends and acquaintances. I truly recommend the Tutor/Mentor Program and hope that when you join, you will fully enjoy it as much as I did.

Jangwon (James) Kim (S. Korea), Student

The Tutor/Mentor Program is really helpful. My tutor, Don Anderson, has helped me a lot with my English language skills. He is very nice. I have learned not only to enhance my English language speaking ability but also a lot about Americans and their culture. I really appreciate the program and happy that I joined when I did. Thank you very much Don, Gigie and Larry.

Kongkieat Kokanutaporn (Thailand), Student

Dr. Jay and Ricky are like our American family. We have had a very good time with them and have learned much from them. We really appreciate that we have such good mentors.

Yun-Chu Lai & Chi-Yao Kao (Taiwan), Students

I had a very nice experience being part of the TM program. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity. I am really thankful to you and my tutor/mentor, Mr. Morkunas.

While in the program, I learned a lot both about American culture and the English language. I have improved my English vocabulary and feel comfortable about life here in the U.S.

Puskpak Kulkarni (Student), India

Since 1992, I have been with many students over the years. I have learned a lot from them about their country and culture and have visited a few of them at their homes in their own country. I am sure that this contact sends a very good message about America to the people of other countries.

In 14 years, I have found it to be interesting and rewarding. I am still in touch with many of them either by email or personally as some of them have remained here and even been married here. They have all been nice to work with and thanks to you and Larry the program is very much expanded which gives many more students from other countries more opportunity to connect with Americans and their culture.

Ken Larcombe, Tutor/Mentor

I think we/the mentor/tutors are the lucky ones. We have the honor to meet and learn from extraordinary students who have reached out to us to provide a "home away from home" experience. This is a wonderful opportunity on both sides.

Nancy Lawson, Tutor/Mentor

Tutoring since 1990 has introduced to my wife and I many great foreign students from all parts of the world. We always enjoy meeting new students at the beginning of the school year and welcoming back those who are here for another year. It's a great program.

Stan Libberton, Tutor/Mentor

I am very glad and thankful that I joined the program. Not only did it help me get to know a lot of funny and interesting people from all over the world, but also, my mentors became a very important part of my life here in San Diego. I feel that, despite a certain difference in age, background, and experience, I was able to establish not only a mentor-mentee relationship with my mentors, but more of a real friendship.

They have been supporting, helping, entertaining, advising, and spoiling me in countless ways!, and I feel I cannot pay back for all that enough by just saying thank you all over again.

I truly hope that they have enjoyed being my mentors just as much as I have enjoyed being their mentee, and that we will stay in touch for a long time after my return to Germany. Maybe, we will be able to meet again in the future.

I also want to express my deep thankfulness and admiration for you, Gigie and Larry. You are sparkling stars for all of "your" international students, making us feel welcome in this country by offering this great opportunity... putting in so much hard work, time and money, and never letting us down!

Thank you so much for everything! Hope to stay in touch with you! With love.

Julia Limbacher (Germany), Student

What better way to justify one's existence than to pass on to grateful others that which one has been privileged enough to acquire? My association with international students is in keeping with my awareness of the interdependence of all of us who occupy this tiny speck in a void beyond comprehension.

Curtis Long, Tutor/Mentor

I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with my student these last two years. More than a mentee, she has become a good friend to me and my family.

Elaine Lopez, Tutor/Mentor

This program has helped me a lot in improving my conversational and writing skills among other things. I also learned more about American culture. It's a great program because when you come here for the first time, the tutor/ mentor makes you feel warm and not so alone. Thanks to my tutor/mentor and you Gigie and Larry for creating this program to help international students.

Ying-Li (Irene) Luo (Taiwan), Student

Well, I am too new to the program to have a track record, but so far I've found my two students, from China and India, absolutely delightful, amazingly bright, mature and ... well, just lovely.

John Marberry, Tutor/Mentor

Discussing our American culture with foreign students and at the same time hearing thoughts abuot their own country's differences and similarities, has been a rewarding experience.

Manny Mariscal, Tutor/Mentor

I have been tutoring for several years with students from many parts of the world. What I do has depended on the needs and desire of the student. They have stayed at our home for short periods, picked them up and taken them to the airport, taken them to dinner, Costco, Frys, etc. I believe I have been helpful, particularly with their writing.

However, I think I have learned at least as much from them about their cultures. For instance, my current student, Neo, and his wife Jini took us to a Chinese restaurant on the Chinese New Year's eve, and I think my wife and I were the only Caucasians there. Neo did the ordering which featured dishes common in his native Cheng Du.

Richard Martin, Tutor/Mentor

My two students Kevin Kim and Leo Chang are continuing to meet with me and they are such a joy. Both are very courteous, responsible students who keep their scheduled meetings and eagerly schedule the next time together. Thank you for the opportunity to learn with these two young men. It will be hard to see them leave at the end of the semester.

Harold Martyn, Tutor/Mentor

Most of all, I would like to demonstrate my great appreciation for your helping my son. I am sure that Kevin is the luckiest guy, not only because he has a chance to meet you and your family, but also because he can learn many valuable lessons about life from you.

If you have any opportunity to visit Korea, please let us know. My family will welcome you and your family with open arms.

I and my family express our heartfelt thanks to you and your family. Thank you.

(Excerpts from a message from the father of a student from South Korea. T/M: H. Martyn)

I am Leo's 2nd elder brother and my name is Ivan. My parents asked me to express their appreciation for your kindness.

I think Leo should be so lucky that he can know your family and get great help from you. It's not easy to experience a foreign culture without immediate support and helpful instruction. Many thanks for your kindness in helping Leo while he lived in San Diego. Not everyone has this wonderful chance to meet such a nice family as yours. As Leo's family, we sincerely thank you for taking good care of him this past year. But we believe because of your help, life in United State became much easier and less strange for Leo.

Recalling last summer, we worried about how Leo would adapt to a different culture, language, etc. Thank God that he met your family. And a most treasured thing is that Leo, a stranger from the other side of the earth, was given your unselfish support.

Thank you again for letting him accomplish his dream.

(Paraphrased from the family of a student from Taiwan. T/M: H. Martyn)

When I signed on with the SDSU Tutor/Mentor Program for International Students, I thought the program would predominantly be a unilateral experience. Much to my delight, the learning and information exchange has consistently been a bilateral experience. Become a participant and enjoy the reward.

Robert Mitchell, Tutor/Mentor

Ms. Trudy Verdick, my mentor, is pretty nice. She invites me for lovely dinner with her family every Thursday, and I could get a chance to hang out with her son and his friends who are same age as me. We continually meet each other at least once a week, and I'm sure we enjoy the time we have. Thanks you for providing this wonderful chance.

Moon, Youngho (Korea), Student

The tutor/mentoring program has provided me with a family away from home experience. Traveling to a new country can be scary and a bit of a culture shock. My mentor made me feel like no question was too silly and really included me in all family events. From NFL superbowl parties to Jewish Passover celebrations, I was always being exposed to new things. I couldn't recommend this program enough. My experience at SDSU would not have been the same had I not signed up for a mentor.

Antonia Morrow (Australia), Student

I do like to do social/cultural activities beside tutoring. When I talked with Hong the other day she mentioned how much she had enjoyed going to my nephew's football game (He was the quarterback and she got to have her picture taken with him).

There are tons of other things to do. Hong and I went many places together and I would certainly like to continue that tradition. Of course I will help them academically as much as is possible with my schedule.

Ellen Ona, Tutor/Mentor

I have to say that helping Noriko has been a very bright spot in a difficult year! It has been very fulfilling and I look forward to doing it again in the future.

Wendy Morton, Tutor/Mentor

Finding students who can add information, laughs and stories have truly made this program an enrichment to my life. It is so touching to be part of someone's memory of a place that they will remember for years to come. Finding things in common with students that come from areas and lifestyles that are so different from mine is a special experience that I recommend to anyone!

Danielle Palmas, Tutor/Mentor

My mentor, Diana Johnson, is a very nice person to be with. Although I initially preferred a younger mentor, I would say that the time I have spent with her and her husband have become most enjoyable. It was interesting to learn that Americans also share certain common family values and thoughts as we, Asians, do. I was surprised when Diana told me "the guy who treats his mother well enough will treat you well as a husband". That was just exactly what my mother said. Thank you for matching me with my mentor.

Anh Pham (Vietnam), Student

I have really enjoyed being part of the tutoring program, it not only has been fun, but also interesting and has made me make the most out of my stay here in San Diego. A special thanks to Gigie and Larry for providing me the opportunity to learn and meet other people from other countries.

Elisa Pineda (Mexico), Student

Would you like to make friends from all over the world and at the same time experience what the real American culture is about? If yes, you should definitely join the Tutor-Mentor-Program at SDSU. The program offers everything it takes to create an unforgettable experience during your time abroad.

In August 2004, I went to San Diego to study at SDSU for the fall semester. As soon as I arrived and took part in all the gatherings the ISC offers I already knew that it was going to be a fun time. However, my semester got so much more exciting when I joined the Tutor/Mentor Program. Gigie and Larry found a tutor for me who totally fit my personality. Dr. Tony Tran helped me experience San Diego and the culture that goes with it, in a special way. He took me to all places everyone should visit when coming to America’s finest city. Between Point Loma, Balboa Park and even eating some traditional American pancakes for breakfast at Denny’s (just to name some highlights), I learned a lot about different cultures and what makes San Diego so unique.

Another advantage that the Program offers is the opportunity to meet people to share your interests with. Nothing will make you remember your semester(s) more than events you spend together with people you have something in common with. One of my greatest memories is the Potluck Party, which was the biggest multicultural food court I have ever seen. Everyone prepares an appetizer, a dish, or dessert typical for the country he/she is from and brings it to the party to share. By playing games you share your culture and at the same time get to know so many other ones. It’s such a great chance to meet people and you shouldn’t miss it. If you’ve ever been curious about how it feels to be under the spotlight and perform in front of a bunch of people, you would’ve definitely enjoyed the fun time we had when we tried out the Karaoke machine. This was a real highlight of the potluck party. First there were hardly any volunteers, but later that night we were all into it. I remember when we got to the lyrics ?”nothing can stop us now” and I felt that - wow! this really describes the atmosphere the party ended with.

Coming to San Diego, I felt that there was so much to do. I had just seven months to figure out why the city keeps attracting so many people and at the same time to make friends to hang out with. It was an overwhelming task, but thanks to the Tutor/Mentor Program, I feel that no question has remained unanswered.

Franziska Poppe (Germany), Student

I have really enjoyed working with the three students I have had. I find I learn so much about the home country of the student besides giving them something about San Diego and the US. In many ways there are similarities between the culture of the foreign country and our country but the language is so much fun to discuss and translate for them, especially the idioms.

I have really enjoyed mentoring Marcel and Pamela. They seem to enjoy my company as well. They have joined my family for a BBQ at our home and have met our children and grandchildren. We are going to the county fair so that they can experience it. They are visiting a lot of local and LA places on their own but we see each other as much as possible. They have become friends of our family. This has been a pleasant experience for me.

JoAnn Rossi, Tutor/Mentor

My experience with the mentoring program has been terrific. Besides the weekly pronunciation class, my student and I have also been to several outside events and I feel I have made a new friend.

Peter Saldamando, Tutor/Mentor

I think this program is great, because I've got a good mentor, Ms. Minta Ricard, who has been always nice to me, cheers me up, tells me some American culture, and serves me with delicious home made meals. It's been my pleasure to see her, and I'd like to thank you for that.

One thing that I could have done better is to join this program a bit earlier so that I wouldn't have missed a trip to Wild Animal Park!” Thank you very much.

Kosuke Sasaki (Japan), Student

I am extremely pleased to have served as tutor these past two years. Not only have I had the positive experience of helping and receiving the thanks of foreign language students, but I have also learned a great deal about a wide variety of subjects and experience. Thanks for allowing me to participate.

Steve Schanes, Ph.D., Tutor/Mentor

One important thing I've learned is that good friends are a very big value in life. To meet interesting people, to hear different attitudes and just to have a good time together - make life a pleasure.

Meini Schraner (Switzerland), Student

I have garnered great friendships in this program. There was always somebody to answer all the questions I have had about America, even the questions that nobody else have been able to answer for me. I’ve felt more like my tutors/mentors are guest parents. They have made Christmas a great experience for me despite the fact that I wasn’t at my native home. This program is one reason why I never felt really homesick. I’ve truly enjoyed my tutors/mentors.

Quirin Seitenberger (Germany), Student

I am thankful to you and the Tutor/Mentor program which gave me an opportunity to come closer to the American culture and meet new people around. My mentor, Mr. Harold Martyn is a remarkable man. He is always ready to help me out with whatever may be the case. We have been meeting for two months now and all the meetings with him were productive and memorable, he taught me about the basic ethics of American culture, slang used here, beliefs and practices of people, lifestyle, human values and a lot many things for which I am thankful to him. We went to different places together from Starbucks to Lake Murray. I enjoyed each and every moment I spent with Mr. Martin. He is a noble person by thoughts and actions. I am indebted by his help. I hope that we would continue this relationship and I would be able to receive his guidance in the future also. Thanks to the mentor program and the people behind it for opening a new door for international students.

Amit Sharma (India), Student

Although I didn’t see my tutor/mentor that much, I called her when I needed to have her check/edit my paper. She really helped me a lot. Not only in studies but we were also able to go out for shopping together. She also occasionally invited me for dinner. I had really good time with her. I hope she continues to teach me, if she’s able to. Also, I really appreciate that you have offered me such a good program. Thanks a lot.

Mami Shibata (Japan), Student

I've enjoyed the times that I've spent with my tutor, Tom Warner. We went to several places for visits that helped me better understand Americans and American culture. We went to the beach, Wild Animal Park, celebrated Easter Day together; all of which have given me good memories that I will treasure for a long time. Tom is a really nice man! He has been willing to help me in various ways. He corrects my emails so that I can improve my English writing skills, shares his experiences with me on how to study in a much better and effective way, which have contributed to my academic improvement thus far. More importantly, Tom has an excellent wife, Sherry, who is very interesting and gregarious. Whenever we get together, she always has a camera with her and takes a lot of nice pictures of us. I want to say: I love them!!! Thank you Gigie and Larry for the program.

Kelsey Si (China), Student

I find I learn more every year from my students and I hope to teach as much. It is one of the most rewarding experience I've done.

I guess it's been four years for me in the Tutor/Mentor Program. I love working with all the students you have given me. Their thirst for knowledge is wonderful and just recently I was told how wonderful it was to be able to give one's opinion on a topic and even put it in writing. Reminds me once again that we are indeed living in a free country. Think we need to be reminded of this occasionally. Again I say, I have learned as much as I have taught.

Evelyn Simmons, Tutor/Mentor

Working with the Tutor/Mentor Program at the International Student Center has been a rewarding experience. I have worked with the same student for over a year now, and it has been both challenging and rewarding to provide the guidance she needs in her educational career (and hopefully will carry beyond this). It's not always easy, but this program is a great way to meet wonderful people and reach out and help someone who can benefit from what we have to share -- and often, to learn from those we are teaching.

Carol Spychalski, Tutor/Mentor

I joined the program to help educate the students and found it really is a two way street. It's wonderful how much they can teach me. I love this program, I learn about other cultures while I explain my own. Also, I have been very fortunate in that I have made new friends, not only my students but also their friends.

Deanna Stewart, Tutor/Mentor

I think it's a great program... I especially like it because when I visit with the students from other countries I'm learning all the different things about their homes, the country, the schools and about their culture. I've had students from Japan, China, Thailand, Korea, and the current one is from Indonesia and all are very interesting and nice students.

Audrey Stutler, Tutor/Mentor

My tutor, Richard Martin, told me that I should practice more on English writing. I know he is definitely right. English writing is my weak point. I will choose writing thesis for my graduate plan, so it is time for me to improve my writing skill. Thanks a lot for the ISTMP! Spring ‘06

Xiaomeng (Neo) Su (China,) Student

It is a wonderful experience to meet and learn from these interesting students from other countries. I've discovered many new things about their lives and countries. This experience has great return on the investment for me. I only hope the students benefit as much as I do.

Kent Swedell, Tutor/Mentor

My mentor, Kent, is quite a dynamic, smart and a devoted mentor. He is always ready to get together and go out for a social drink or invite me to share a meal with his friends. Thank you very much for this valuable program and to Kent for allowing me to have an insight into American culture so conveniently.

Laurent Tevenart (France), Student

I cannot survive without a tutor. I really enjoy talking to Americans. My Tutor, Barbara Emdur is awesome. Now she is traveling in Japan, my native country, with her husband Larry. While there, they will be meeting with my family, which makes me feel happy. They have treated me like family and I always hung out with them. I invited them over for my birthday celebration and we had a very pleasant memorable experience. Anyway, thank you for introducing me to such good people. I appreciate your efforts and the opportunity to join the program.

Tomo Uesugi (Japan), Student

It has been a rewarding experience to become friends with my students, in some cases to meet their family, and to learn about their culture. They are very appreciative of the time spent helping them.

Laurabell Urick, Tutor/Mentor

I really appreciate this program. I applied to Ph.D. Programs during last December. I believe that I couldn't complete this process without my mentors' help.

Dr. Schanes helped me a lot with CV, SOP, other application process. I must have been overwhelmed by worries that I could make mistake with grammar and written English without Dr. Schanes' help. Maybe I might have given up some part. But I successfully completed this process. Actually I did not like the idea that Dr. Schanes give feedback on my writings by email because I want to have some face-to-face learning session. But I found that email communication was really efficient for me this time.

Also Beda came to SDSU to help my application process. At that time, She had some pain in her knee, so she went to school with a cane. That was so touching to me even though I was feeling so sorry about. She really wanted to help me with everything. At some point, I was confused by her enthusiasm to help me. I mean she worked as if she applied to the program and that was so touching to my heart. I appreciate my mentors' kind and generous helps. Also I appreciate your great hearts, Gigie and Larry.

Mi Ran Wang (Korea), Student

Thank you very much for all the work. I like the program. I like my tutor Stan. He is my friend now. He teaches me not only English but also a lot of stuff. He took me to Point Loma. He invited me to his house for Thanksgiving Dinner. ...I am so glad I attend the tutor program. Thank you!

Weitao (Walter) Wu (China), Student

Mr. Maury Rapkin, my tutor/mentor is an individual with a really big heart. He helps me not only with my English but also with my attitude towards life. I cannot forget how hard he has worked on my papers every semester, focusing on every word, sentences, and punctuations. Thanks to Maury, most of them turned out to be “A” papers. He also helped me buy my first car here and repaired it like it’s brand new despite his age of 90 years. He is participating in various volunteer work and would occasionally take me with him. I am learning a lot about U.S. culture and other people’s lifestyles from our meetings. Also, because of him, I became more passionate about life and a little more kind to people around me. My boyfriend and I are now living with him. We are really like family!

Yes, this program works to bring people together from different countries. I had a lot of joyful events last year like going to Wild Animal Park and San Diego Zoo, having potlucks, enjoying Thanksgiving and X’mas parties. I got to know a lot of friends from these activities. Being with all these kinds of people really helped me a lot in adapting to life here in America. Thanks to Gigie and Larry, and all the other people who are working and participating in this program.

Susu Yang (China), Student

My tutor is Dr. Steve Schanes. Although we do not see each other, we regularly communicate through the Internet. He helps me revise my term papers carefully. I really want to thank Dr. Schanes for helping me.

Lu (Sophy) Yao (China), Student

We are like a family! My tutor John Lee and his wife Anne are the best people I have ever met. They are not only great teachers, great friends, but also have become my family. I can't image how I would be without their help. I may still be taking a bus to school, etc., live in other people's living rooms, or I may still not be knowledgeable enough to write a good paper. They have helped me tremendously. Thank you John and Anne, thank you Gigie and Larry, and for the great tutoring/mentoring program.

Ouyang Yi (China), Student

My mentor helped me get used to American Culture as easily as possible, and with interesting activities. We have become friends and will continue to remain friends even after I go back to my own country. This opportunity I would have never had experienced without this program. I urge international students to give this program a chance as it has given me. There are no reasons not to join this program.

Jinoh Yoon (Korea), Student

There are so many great things about this tutoring/mentoring program. Improving one's English writing and speaking skills, understanding American culture, preparing and editing of class papers and thesis, and so on. But the most important thing for me is wishing and learning how to be a better person. Through this program, I have learned that there are so many good-hearted people who are so generous and kind. My tutors have always wanted the best for me. They have helped me with my assignments with much enthusiasm than I can muster for myself. They have opened their homes, families and friends to us foreign students; strangers to this country. I believe that this is not easy for anybody to do. But, the people involved in this program are so willing to welcome us into their lives and help us feel like we are home. My tutors/mentors have served as my role models and I want to be just like them. I will try to have an open mind to different people, to be more generous to other people, and to want the best for other people just like my tutors desires for me. I am so lucky to meet and become friends with these tutors for which I have must respect and admiration. They are indeed good people. Thank you Gigie and Larry for giving me the opportunity to feel at home in this strange country with strange good people. I no longer feel strange nor do I feel that I am in a strange country. This country has been good to me and the people in it, especially my tutors, have made me a better person.

Mi Ran Wang (Korea), Student

My experience with my tutor was really helpful. I believe that it's a great opportunity for international students to have the chance to improve their background and their ability to speak and write English properly. My tutor is highly educated and extremely nice. She gave me priceless advice for my presentation of my Ph.D. project. I hope to continue to have the opportunity to learn from her. Thank you for this program.

Donatella Zona (Italy), Student