International Tutoring Center Workshops
Join us for workshops held throughout the semester. Our workshops cover academic and professional topics to support students in their skill building outside of the classroom. We also hold a variety of social events during the semester to help build community among our international student community. Sign in to Penji and click “Join a workshop” to register! We hope you can join us!
Spring 2026 Workshops
| Workshop Title | Date & Time | Location | Description |
| Classroom Culture: How to Navigate the Norms and Expectations of North American Colleges | Tuesday, January 13, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Understanding the norms of U.S. or Canadian college classrooms can help you feel more confident and connected. This session explores common expectations around participation, attendance, academic integrity, and communication with instructors. You’ll also learn how to make the most of office hours and other support opportunities. Presented by Crissy McMartin-Miller, PhD, and Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Professional Emails: How to Communicate with Confidence and Clarity in English | Wednesday, January 14, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Whether you’re reaching out to a professor, supervisor, or colleague, professional emails can open doors and build relationships. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to structure your messages, use appropriate tone, and respond effectively. Gain tools to write emails that are clear, respectful, and action-oriented in both academic and professional settings. Presented by Crissy McMartin-Miller, PhD, and Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Small Talk & Conversation: How to Make Friends and Find Events | Tuesday, January 20, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Bring your curiosity and global perspective to this session on small talk and everyday conversation. You’ll practice ways to connect authentically in academic, professional, and social settings. Learn how to start and sustain conversations with confidence while honoring your communication style and cultural background. Presented by Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Small Talk Part 2 with Sue | To be rescheduled |
In Person (Room TBD) | Would you like the opportunity to practice casual conversation and feel comfortable in initial meetings with colleagues in coops/full-time jobs? Using a play as a jumping-off point, we will discuss strategies and scenarios for small talk. Presented by Sue Brody, MFA (ESL Tutor). |
| Assessment in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Thursday, February 5, 3-4 PM ET | In Person (Room TBD) | Bring your questions and curiosity to this session on assessments in the age of AI. You’ll move through short, hands-on activities that introduce common test formats like oral exams, lockdown browser tests, and handwritten timed writing. Learn what professors are looking for, how AI rules affect your work, and how to show what you know with confidence. Presented by Crissy McMartin-Miller, PhD, and Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| How to Use AI Appropriately | Tuesday, February 10, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Build confidence in your English while learning how to use AI responsibly. In this session, you’ll practice appropriate ways to use AI tools to support language learning, from revising sentences to preparing for assignments. Learn how to follow AI guidelines, protect your academic integrity, and strengthen your own skills at the same time. Presented by Crissy McMartin-Miller, PhD, and Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Reading: How to Analyze Articles, Data, and More | Tuesday, February 17, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Build on your existing reading strategies and learn new ways to engage deeply with texts, visuals, and data. This workshop offers tools to help you read with purpose, ask critical questions, and make meaning from complex material in academic and professional settings. Presented by Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Writing: From Understanding Assignments to Impactful Revision | Tuesday, February 24, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | You already have strong ideas—this workshop helps you bring them to life by first understanding what’s expected and then refining your writing for impact. Learn how to break down prompts, rubrics, and genre conventions so you know exactly what your instructors are asking for. Then, explore strategies for drafting, organizing, and revising to express your thoughts clearly and powerfully across academic and professional contexts. Presented by Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Teamwork & Collaboration: How to Work Effectively in Groups | Tuesday, March 24, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Group projects don’t have to be stressful! This workshop explores strategies for effective teamwork, from setting shared goals to managing group dynamics and planning meetings. Learn how to contribute meaningfully, navigate challenges, and build collaboration skills that will serve you in school and beyond. Presented by Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |
| Study Skills: How to Take Notes, Prepare for Exams, and Manage Anxiety | Tuesday, March 31, 1-2 PM ET (10-11 AM PT) | Zoom | Everyone learns differently—this workshop helps you discover study skills that work for you. Explore effective note-taking strategies, time-saving study techniques, and tips for managing testing anxiety. You’ll leave with personalized tools to support your academic success and well-being. Presented by Cameron Sheehy, MEd. |