Category: Courses

  • American Slang: 15 Words and Phrases You’ll Definitely Use in Real Life

    American Slang: 15 Words and Phrases You’ll Definitely Use in Real Life

    Learning grammar and expanding your vocabulary is only half the battle to speaking English fluently. To really understand movies, TV shows, social media, and everyday conversations with Americans, you need to know slang – informal expressions that don’t often appear in textbooks but are everywhere in casual speech.

    We’ve put together 15 popular American slang words and phrases that will help you sound more natural and better understand native speakers. Save this list – it’ll come in handy!

    1. Ace (verb)

    Meaning: to do something really well (an exam, interview, task)
    Example: “I totally aced the interview!”
    (I nailed the interview!)

    2. Buck (noun)

    Meaning: informal word for a dollar
    Example: “It costs five bucks.”
    (It costs five dollars.)

    3. Couch Potato (noun)

    Meaning: a person who spends a lot of time lying on the couch watching TV
    Example: “Stop being a couch potato and go for a walk!”
    (Stop lying around and go for a walk!)

    4. Flake (noun/verb)

    Meaning: an unreliable person who often cancels plans; or to cancel at the last minute
    Example: “She flaked on me again!”
    (She let me down again!)

    5. Give the Cold Shoulder (idiom)

    Meaning: to intentionally ignore someone, usually because you’re upset with them
    Example: “Ever since our fight, he’s been giving me the cold shoulder.”
    (He’s been ignoring me since our fight.)

    6. Jacked (adjective)

    Meaning: very muscular and strong
    Example: “He got seriously jacked at the gym.”
    (He really bulked up at the gym.)

    7. Jonesing (verb)

    Meaning: craving or strongly wanting something
    Example: “I’m jonesing for some ice cream right now.”
    (I really want some ice cream right now.)

    8. Dead (adjective, about a place)

    Meaning: empty, boring, no activity
    Example: “This club is dead – let’s go somewhere else.”
    (This club is boring, let’s go somewhere else.)

    9. Take a Rain Check (idiom)

    Meaning: politely decline an invitation now but suggest doing it later
    Example: “Can I take a rain check? I’m really tired tonight.”
    (Can we do it another time? I’m very tired tonight.)

    10. Zonked (adjective)

    Meaning: extremely tired or exhausted
    Example: “After that long flight, I was totally zonked.”
    (I was completely wiped out after that long flight.)

    11. Cut It Out (idiom)

    Meaning: stop it, knock it off (often said when someone is annoying)
    Example: “Cut it out, you’re being annoying!”
    (Stop it, you’re annoying me!)

    12. Piece of Cake (idiom)

    Meaning: something very easy
    Example: “The test was a piece of cake.”
    (The test was really easy.)

    13. Screw Up (verb)

    Meaning: to mess something up, make a mistake
    Example: “I really screwed up that meeting.”
    (I totally messed up that meeting.)

    14. Lighten Up (phrasal verb)

    Meaning: relax, don’t take things so seriously
    Example: “Come on, lighten up! It’s not a big deal.”
    (Come on, relax! It’s no big deal.)

    15. In the Loop (idiom)

    Meaning: to be informed, up to date on something
    Example: “Please keep me in the loop on this project.”
    (Please keep me updated on this project.)

    Want to Sound Like a Native? Start Small

    Adding these expressions to your speech will make you sound more natural and confident. Not only will you understand Americans better, but you’ll also feel more comfortable communicating.

    Keep practicing, and soon English won’t just be a language – it’ll be your tool for real conversation.

  • Registration is Now Open for 5 Online MOOC Courses for Professional and Language Development

    Registration is Now Open for 5 Online MOOC Courses for Professional and Language Development

    From July to September 2025, a new series of free online courses (MOOCs) will be available, focused on enhancing professional competencies and English language skills. Teachers, students, professionals from various fields, and anyone interested in career growth and skill development are welcome to join.

    The courses are offered in a convenient online format with flexible learning schedules, suitable for learners with different levels of English proficiency.

    Professional Development for Teacher Trainers (Instructor-Led Course)

    This course is designed for teachers who want to learn how to design and deliver effective training sessions for colleagues. Participants will gain skills in planning, conducting, and evaluating training events, and will receive practical tools for use in educational settings.
    Format: Instructor-led
    Registration: June 23 – August 25, 2025
    Course dates: July 28 – September 1, 2025
    Register 

    English as a Medium of Instruction (Self-Paced Course)

    This course is for those who teach or plan to teach academic subjects in English. Participants will explore the theory and practice of EMI (English as a Medium of Instruction) and learn how to adapt curricula and create materials that support student learning in English.
    Format: Self-paced
    Registration: July 14 – September 29, 2025
    Course dates: July 14 – October 6, 2025
    Register

    English for Career Development (Self-Paced Course)

    A practical course designed to build both language and professional skills. Participants will learn how to write strong resumes and cover letters, prepare for interviews, and navigate the global job market with confidence.
    Format: Self-paced
    Structure: 5 modules, 3–5 hours each
    Registration: July 7 – September 22, 2025
    Course dates: July 7 – September 29, 2025
    Register

    English for Business and Entrepreneurship (Self-Paced Course)

    This course is ideal for those looking to improve their business English and gain foundational knowledge of business and entrepreneurship. Participants will learn key vocabulary, develop communication skills, and explore how to start and manage a business.
    Format: Self-paced
    Structure: 5 modules, 3–5 hours each
    Registration: July 7 – September 22, 2025
    Course dates: July 7 – September 29, 2025
    Register

    English for Tourism Professionals (Self-Paced Course)

    Designed for professionals and students in the tourism industry, this course focuses on developing relevant vocabulary and communication skills for real-life work situations in English.
    Format: Self-paced
    Structure: 5 modules, 3–5 hours each
    Registration: July 14 – September 29, 2025
    Course dates: July 14 – October 6, 2025
    Register

    Benefits of Participation
    – Free access to all course materials
    – Flexible learning schedule
    – Certificate upon successful completion
    – Practical and relevant course content
    – Suitable for all English proficiency levels

    If you’re aiming for professional growth and want to improve your English, these courses are a great place to start.

  • Education in the USA – It’s Possible: Free Opportunities for Belarusians

    Education in the USA – It’s Possible: Free Opportunities for Belarusians

    Are you dreaming of studying, growing professionally, or building an international career? The United States offers a wide range of educational and professional programs for high school students, university students, specialists, and entrepreneurs from Belarus.

    Join our online presentation, where U.S. education expert Viktor Khotim will explain how you can go to the United States through fully funded programs.

    During the session, you will learn about:

    • An overview of exchange programs, scholarships, and internships
    • How to apply to U.S. universities: undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs
    • Resources and advising services provided by EducationUSA to help you prepare
    • Real success stories of Belarusians who are already studying and working in the U.S.
    • Answers to your questions

    Important: Many programs cover all expenses, including tuition, airfare, housing, and health insurance.

    Who should attend:

    • High school students and their parents
    • University students and graduates
    • Young professionals and experienced specialists
    • NGO representatives, entrepreneurs, activists
    • Anyone interested in education or gaining professional experience in the U.S.

    Date: July 30
    Time: 5:00 PM (Minsk time)
    Format: Online, via Zoom

    Registration link

    Join the session to learn how you can start your journey toward studying or interning in the United States. Feel free to share this event with others who may be interested!

  • Webinar: How to Adapt to an American University

    Webinar: How to Adapt to an American University

    We continue the Alumni Series – a series of meetings with graduates of U.S. educational programs who share their experiences, approaches, and practical tools.

    This time, our guest speaker will be Henadz Matskevich, a participant of the UGRAD 2024 program, who studied Business Administration at West Liberty University (USA). He currently works in the real estate sector in Europe and the UAE and is continuing his studies in Austria.

    Date: July 24
    Time: 6:30 PM (Minsk time)
    Format: Online meeting via Zoom

    During the webinar, Henadz will share his personal story of adapting to life and study in an American university:

    • What it’s like to be an international student in the U.S.
    • Common challenges newcomers face – from language barriers to everyday habits
    • What culture shock is and how to overcome it
    • Strategies for coping with stress, making friends, and feeling confident in a new environment
    • What surprises, inspires, and shifts your mindset during studies in the U.S.

    Who is this for:
    Students, educators, future participants of international programs, and anyone interested in the U.S. education system and how to prepare for studying abroad.

    Real stories, honest insights, and practical advice – everything you need to successfully adapt to a new educational environment.

    Registration link
    Join the webinar!

  • Conversation Club with Tyler Mergen: Favorite Summer Reads in the U.S.

    Conversation Club with Tyler Mergen: Favorite Summer Reads in the U.S.

    Date: July 23 (Tuesday)
    Time: 18:30 (Minsk time)
    Format: Online (Zoom)
    Language: English

    We invite you to the summer edition of our Conversation Club with Tyler Mergen. This session will be dedicated to books that are especially enjoyable to read during the summer—whether you’re on vacation, in the park, or relaxing on a porch.

    Tyler will share her favorite reads and talk about books that are particularly popular among American readers during the summer. The list will include romantic stories, gripping mysteries, and classics such as My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult, The Time Traveler’s Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

    We’d also love to hear your recommendations—share what you’re reading this summer and which books have made an impression on you.

    Speaker: Tyler Mergen is a student at an American university and an intern with the U.S. Department of State at the Belarus Affairs Unit (BAU).

    This is a great opportunity to practice English in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, while also discovering new reading ideas.

    Registration

  • Top 5 Online Resources to Improve Your English Pronunciation

    Top 5 Online Resources to Improve Your English Pronunciation

    Pronunciation plays a key role in mastering the English language. The way we produce sounds affects not only how well we are understood but also how confident we feel when speaking. Fortunately, there are many online tools available today that help learners develop their pronunciation, improve listening comprehension, and become familiar with different accents.

    We’ve compiled a list of 5 reliable and effective resources that are useful both for independent learners and for teachers looking to diversify their lessons.

    1. YouGlish

    🌐 youglish.com 

    What it is:

    A tool that finds real-life examples of word and phrase pronunciation in context. YouGlish uses video content from YouTube, TED, and other platforms to show how English is spoken in natural settings.

    How it works:

    Type in any word or phrase, and you’ll get dozens of video clips where native speakers use it in context.

    Benefits:

    • Supports American, British, and Australian accents 
    • Slow playback and repetition options
    • Great for learning rhythm, intonation, and real-world usage

    2. Forvo

    🌐 forvo.com 

    What it is:

    The world’s largest pronunciation database, created by native speakers. You can find audio for words, names, places, and more — in a variety of regional accents.

    How it works:

    Type a word and listen to how it’s pronounced by speakers from different countries and regions.

    Benefits:

    • Wide range of dialects and rare words
    • Option to upload your own pronunciation
    • Useful for studying regional variations and accents

    3. Elllo.org

    🌐 elllo.org 

    What it is:

    A free platform offering hundreds of audio and video lessons recorded by native English speakers from around the world.

    How it works:

    You listen to short dialogues, read transcripts, and complete listening and pronunciation exercises.

    Benefits:

    • Variety of accents and topics
    • Focus on listening comprehension and speaking
    • Full access to all materials for free

    4. BBC Learning English: Pronunciation

    🌐 bbc.co.uk/learningenglish 

    What it is:

    A section of the BBC Learning English site focused on British English pronunciation. Ideal for those aiming to master British phonetics.

    How it works:

    Each sound is introduced with a video lesson, transcript, and practice exercises, with a focus on articulation and intonation.

    Benefits:

    • High-quality educational content
    • Clear visual demonstrations of articulation
    • Exercises on sound reduction and intonation

    5. Speechling

    🌐 speechling.com 

    What it is:

    An online platform for personalized pronunciation training with feedback from native-speaking coaches.

    How it works:

    You listen to model recordings, submit your own voice recordings, and receive detailed feedback from professional teachers.

    Benefits:

    • One-on-one feedback
    • Practice with both individual words and full sentences
    • Supports various English accents: American, British, and others

    These resources will help you make your English speech clearer, more confident, and more natural. They’re great for self-study and can also serve as valuable tools for English teachers.

    Save this list, share it with your colleagues and students — and keep working on your pronunciation every day!

  • Belarus Under a Different Sky: In Search of Native Art in New York Museums

    Belarus Under a Different Sky: In Search of Native Art in New York Museums

    Online talk with Viktar Martinovich
    July 10, 6:30 PM (Belarus time)
    Language of the event – Belarusian

    What does Belarusian art look like through the lens of the American museum scene? Is it possible to find something familiar in the halls of the Met, MoMA, or the Guggenheim? And what does an art historian do when they find themselves in the heart of one of the world’s most culturally rich cities?

    Viktar Martinovich — writer, art historian, and Fulbright visiting scholar at Hunter College — invites you on a presentation-tour through New York’s museums in search of unexpected connections with Belarusian art. This is not just a lecture, but a personal story of someone who doesn’t simply live in Manhattan or Brooklyn, but in a museum — through daily presence and a deep passion for art.

    During the talk, you’ll learn:

    • how European art museums differ fundamentally from their American counterparts;
    • what the famous New York focus on collectors and temporary exhibitions means;
    • why every Belarusian in New York should eventually make their way to The Cloisters, even though it may seem like there’s nothing Belarusian in its collection;
    • and how to find a shaded statue of a Vitebsk prince hidden in Central Park.

    Participation is free. Registration is required:
    Register here

  • Join the Webinar: “Career in the U.S.: What You Need to Know”

    Join the Webinar: “Career in the U.S.: What You Need to Know”

    How is a career built in the United States, and what should you keep in mind if you want to grow professionally in an international environment?

    The professional culture in the U.S. is quite different from what we are used to. It affects everything – from the format of a resume and communication style during interviews to approaches to career advancement and professional development within a company.

    To feel confident and succeed in this environment, it’s important to understand these differences and know how to present yourself effectively.At our upcoming online session, we’ll explore how the American career system works together with Anelly Arana – an English instructor and university professor from Florida.

    What to expect during the session:

    • Learn how Americans build careers and what the expression “climbing the corporate ladder” really means;
    • Explore the professional skills and personal qualities that U.S. employers value most today;
    • Practice your spoken English with real-life expressions and useful career-related vocabulary;
    • Find out how to prepare for interviews and what a modern resume should include;
    • Discuss the role of networking and how to use it effectively to grow your career in the U.S.

    Why join:
    This is a great opportunity to practice English with a native speaker, gain insights into American business culture, and get practical career tips from an expert who lives and works in the U.S. The session will be useful both for those planning an international career and for anyone looking to improve their English through an engaging, relevant topic.

    Date and time: June 26 at 8:00 PM (Minsk time)
    Format: Online
    Language: English

    Registration link

  • Webinar: Secrets to a Successful Interview

    Webinar: Secrets to a Successful Interview

    Are you preparing for an important interview – whether it’s for university admission or a job interview? Want to learn how to prepare effectively, what to pay attention to, and which mistakes to avoid? Join our webinar “Secrets to a Successful Interview” with Viktar Khotsim, a staff member at EducationUSA Belarus and an expert in American education since 1999.

    In this webinar, you will learn:

    • Why preparation for an interview is crucial and which methods really work;
    • How academic interviews differ from job interviews;
    • How to confidently present yourself in various interview formats;
    • What actions after the interview can strengthen your chances of success.

    Viktar will share practical advice based on over 20 years of experience working with students and applicants who have gone through interviews at international universities and companies.

    Date and time: June 25, 17:00 (Minsk time)
    Language: Russian
    Format: Online via Zoom
    Duration: 1 hour

    Register now


    Don’t miss the opportunity to get valuable tips and increase your chances of admission or successful employment!

  • Webinar: Interactive Methods and Automation of Online Classes

    Webinar: Interactive Methods and Automation of Online Classes

    The Alumni Series continues – webinars featuring graduates of American educational programs who share their experience, approaches, and useful tools.

    We invite teachers and online tutors to a free webinar with Vadim Kryuchkov – a methodologist, math and programming teacher, and EdTech expert. Over more than 10 years, Vadim has taught hundreds of students, created his own educational programs, and helps educators worldwide integrate technology into teaching.

    In this webinar, you will learn:

    • How to effectively use platforms like Wordwall, Zoom, Quizizz, and Canva to increase interactivity in lessons;
    • Which math websites help engage students and organize practice;
    • How to quickly create quizzes from PDFs using artificial intelligence;
    • How to set up a free student registration system using Google Calendar;
    • You will receive an exclusive attendance tracking and automatic payment calculation spreadsheet (a gift for participants).

    Before the webinar (after registration), you will receive a collection of the best interactive platforms with brief descriptions grouped by type (games, quizzes, visualization, collaboration).

    Date and time: June 23, 18:00 (Minsk time)
    Format: Online via Zoom
    Participation: Free


    Registration

    If you want to make your online classes more engaging and preparation easier and faster, join us for the webinar!

  • Enrollment is now open for a free course on Business and Intercultural Communication in English

    Enrollment is now open for a free course on Business and Intercultural Communication in English

    If you want to feel confident in an international professional environment, communicate effectively with colleagues from different countries, improve your public speaking skills in English, and build a strong personal brand – this course is for you!

    We invite professionals from various fields with English proficiency level B1 and above who want to:

    • enhance their business communication skills in English;
    • learn how to negotiate, speak in public, and communicate effectively online;
    • understand the nuances of intercultural communication and improve their cultural competence;
    • develop leadership and presentation skills;
    • build a career and professional network in an international setting.

    The “Business and Intercultural Communication” course is a series of interactive workshops with live discussions, practical tasks, and the opportunity to tailor topics to participants’ interests. Topics will include leadership, digital etiquette, personal branding, remote work, conflict resolution, and more.

    The course will be led by Catherine Fowler, an experienced English instructor with over 10 years of teaching experience. Catherine has worked in the USA, Japan, and Spain, developed business communication courses, and holds two Master’s degrees (including one in Applied Linguistics), as well as a Google Project Management Certificate.

    Classes will be held once a week on Tuesdays via Zoom, starting at 18:30 (Minsk time) and lasting 1.5 hours.

    The course will start on June 24 and run for 10 weeks.
    Application deadline: June 18 (inclusive).

    Apply now

    Spots are limited, and selection will be based on a competitive process (applicants’ motivation is key).

    Expand your professional horizons and speak confidently in the international language of business!

  • Presentation: «Native and Non-Native Americans: What Do They Have in Common with Belarusians?»

    Presentation: «Native and Non-Native Americans: What Do They Have in Common with Belarusians?»

    Date: June 17
    Time: 19:00 (Minsk time)

    Is it possible to preserve your identity in a multicultural society? Why are some Indigenous people ashamed of their language? Why do children of immigrants often turn away from their roots? And what do Indigenous languages in the U.S. have in common with the Belarusian language?

    In this session with Palina Masliankova – a philologist, educator, and participant of the Open World 2025 program – we will reflect on language, culture, and identity in both the U.S. and Belarus.

    We will discuss:
    – life and self-governance of Native American communities;
    – reservations, councils of elders, rituals, and modern-day challenges;
    – language loss and revitalization: what hinders and what helps;
    – language shame, internal criticism, and fear of making mistakes;
    – challenges in education: lack of schools, textbooks, and media in native languages;
    – what Indigenous languages and Belarusian have in common;
    – attitudes toward code-switching and mixed language («trasianka»), the role of elites, and social mobility;
    – experiences of non-Native Americans: children and parents of immigrants;
    – language loss and feelings of guilt;
    – why children with Mexican roots often don’t want to return to their homeland – and what that might reveal about our own society.

    Palina will also share personal stories and impressions from her encounters with members of the Tohono O’odham Nation, conversations in museums, and observations of how integration into American life happens for members of vulnerable communities.

    We welcome everyone interested in language, cultural identity, and life in the United States.

    Registration link

  • How to Overcome Awkward Pauses and Start a Conversation in English: The Art of Small Talk with Jennifer Uhler

    How to Overcome Awkward Pauses and Start a Conversation in English: The Art of Small Talk with Jennifer Uhler

    Polite conversation with strangers in English can be challenging—especially if small talk is not a common part of communication in your culture. However, in the English-speaking world, it’s more than just “chitchat”; it’s a vital part of social, professional, and everyday interactions.

    We invite you to join an open online session with Jennifer Uhler, Regional English Language Officer at the U.S. Department of State (based in Riga), to explore why small talk matters, how to use it effectively, and how to feel confident in any casual conversation.

    During the session, you will:

    • learn the role small talk plays in English-speaking cultures;
    • understand which topics are appropriate—and which are best avoided;
    • prepare useful phrases and questions for various situations;
    • receive practical tips and have the chance to practice your speaking and listening skills in real-time interaction.

    The session will be interactive — we’ll not only listen, but also engage in dialogues with fellow participants.

    Online event – June 5 at 19:00 (Minsk time)

    Registration

  • Free English Course for Creative Industry Professionals

    Free English Course for Creative Industry Professionals

    Enrollment is open for the second round. The course starts on June 5.

    The first round of our course has successfully concluded, and we are excited to open enrollment for the second. Applications are accepted until June 3 (11:59 PM Minsk time). Participation is free, and spaces are limited.

    About the Course
    This course is designed specifically for professionals in the creative industries: artists, photographers, filmmakers, theater makers, performers, writers, and others working in the arts.

    The program is aimed at participants with an English level of A2–B1 or higher.

    During the course, you will learn how to:

    • use professional vocabulary related to art and creative industries;
    • present yourself and your work on the international stage;
    • write artistic biographies and motivation letters;
    • promote your projects on social media in English;
    • prepare grant applications and portfolios;
    • communicate professionally within the art world.

    The course will be held in an interactive format, with a strong focus on both speaking and writing practice. Each participant will receive personalized feedback from the instructor and will prepare a final presentation of their creative work using the language and tools studied during the course.

    Instructor
    The course will be taught by Lori Cabrera, an experienced English teacher from Florida. Lori has over 20 years of experience teaching English as a foreign language and holds a Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics.

    Apply


    Applications will be reviewed on a competitive basis. Special attention will be given to each applicant’s motivation.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to improve your English and prepare for an international career in the arts!

  • How to Start a Conversation in English: 10 Phrases for Successful Small Talk

    How to Start a Conversation in English: 10 Phrases for Successful Small Talk

    If you’re learning English and want to feel more confident in everyday communication, it’s important to master the art of small talk – light, casual conversation on neutral topics. In the U.S., this is an essential part of the culture: such conversations help establish a connection, show friendliness, and even lay the groundwork for future friendships or professional relationships.

    What is small talk?

    It’s a short, friendly conversation – for example, in a line, in an elevator, or during a meeting with colleagues or new acquaintances. The main rule: no controversial or overly personal topics. You’re simply creating a positive atmosphere and showing interest in the person you’re speaking with.

    Why does it matter?

    Being able to engage in small talk helps you adapt to English-speaking environments and feel more confident in school, at work, and in everyday life. It’s the first step to building relationships based on trust and mutual understanding.

    What are good small talk topics? And how do you start?

    Here are our tips.

    Weather
    A classic topic, especially in the U.S. A great way to break the ice. Phrases:

    • «Beautiful day, isn’t it?»
    • «Can you believe how cold it is today?»
    • «Looks like it’s going to rain all weekend.»

    Sports
    If you know the person is a sports fan, use that! Phrases:

    • «Did you watch the game last night?»
    • «What’s your favorite team?»
    • «That final was intense, wasn’t it?»

    Food and Restaurants
    Everyone loves food. It’s a great neutral topic. Phrases:

    • «Have you tried that new Italian place on Main Street?»
    • «What’s your go-to comfort food?»
    • «I’m looking for a good sushi spot – any tips?»

    Movies and TV Shows
    A shared interest in film can quickly bring people closer. Phrases:

    • «Seen anything good on Netflix lately?»
    • «I just finished “[show name]”, and I’m obsessed!»
    • «Any movie recommendations?»

    Music
    Music is a universal language. Phrases:

    • «What kind of music are you into?»
    • «I’ve been listening to a lot of indie lately – any artists you like?»
    • «Have you ever been to a live concert?»

    Travel
    Past trips or dream destinations are a great topic. Phrases:

    • «Have you done any traveling recently?»
    • «What’s your dream vacation destination?»
    • «I’ve always wanted to visit Japan – have you been?»

    Books and Podcasts
    Great for conversations with colleagues, teachers, or intellectuals. Phrases:

    • «Read anything good lately?»
    • «I’m into true crime podcasts – what about you?»
    • «I’m looking for a new book – any suggestions?»

    Pets
    Pets are a great source of stories and emotion. Phrases:

    • «Do you have any pets?»
    • «I saw the cutest dog at the park today!»
    • «I’ve been thinking of getting a cat – any advice?»

    Weekends and Free Time
    You can talk about plans or recent experiences. Phrases:

    • «Any plans for the weekend?»
    • «What did you get up to last Saturday?»
    • «I like hiking on weekends – how do you usually relax?»

    Work and Studies
    A safe topic if you already know each other a little. Phrases:

    • «What do you do for work?»
    • «How did you get into that field?»
    • «Are you enjoying your studies?»

    Tip: Start with a simple question – and be ready to keep the conversation going. Even a short dialogue in English is already a step toward confidence.

    Want to speak more freely?
    Try improving your pronunciation and vocabulary with specialized apps like BoldVoice.

  • Speaking Club – Learn English Through Pop Songs: From Elvis to Beyoncé

    Speaking Club – Learn English Through Pop Songs: From Elvis to Beyoncé

    Music is one of the most engaging and effective ways to learn a language.


    At our upcoming conversation club meeting, we’ll dive into the lyrics of iconic pop songs – from Elvis Presley to Beyoncé – and learn how to understand natural English in context.

    We’ll focus on phrasal verbs, slang, idioms, and common expressions that frequently appear in songs and are widely used in everyday speech. Everything will be presented in an accessible way, with plenty of opportunities to practice speaking English.

    Together with Anelly Arana – a teacher and university professor from Florida – we will:

    • Explore how songs convey emotions and meaning through conversational language and expressive phrases;
    • Practice listening comprehension, paying attention to pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation;
    • Work with vocabulary: learn how to use expressions from songs in everyday communication;
    • Understand how context affects the meaning of words and why the same phrases can sound completely different in different songs.

    Our conversation club is a great opportunity to:

    • Expand your vocabulary;
    • Improve your listening skills in English;
    • Practice conversational English with a native-speaking teacher.

    Join us!

    May 29 at 8:00 PM (Minsk time)

    Register now

  • Career Growth Through LinkedIn – Practical Webinar

    Career Growth Through LinkedIn – Practical Webinar

    Do you want your profile to get noticed by employers, start receiving interview invitations, and open up real career opportunities? Then this webinar is for you.

    Why it matters:

    • 70% of recruiters search for candidates on LinkedIn
    • Every minute, 8 people find a job there

    During the webinar, you will learn:

    • What LinkedIn is and how it supports career development
    • How to structure your profile to attract HR professionals
    • Which skills and achievements to highlight
    • What and how to post to get noticed
    • How to build and expand your professional network
    • Best practices for communication and real-life case studies

    Speaker:
    Yuliya Khvatsik – law lecturer with 15 years of experience, expert in professional communication, digital positioning, and clinical legal education.

    Webinar language: Russian

    Who will benefit:

    • Students and early-career professionals
    • Anyone looking to grow their career and expand their business connections

    No unnecessary theory – only practical advice, inspiration, and actionable steps you can apply right away. After the session, you’ll be motivated to improve your profile and start using LinkedIn effectively.

    Date and time: May 27 at 19:00 (Minsk time)



    Registration

  • Recommendation Letters: Writing Guidelines and Common Mistakes

    Recommendation Letters: Writing Guidelines and Common Mistakes

    Applying to a foreign university? Planning an internship or a job abroad?
    In that case, a strong recommendation letter is essential — it can play a decisive role in the selection process.

    During the webinar, you will learn:

    • What requirements foreign universities and employers have
    • What common mistakes are made when preparing recommendation letters
    • How to build an effective strategy for requesting and using recommendation letters

    Don’t miss the chance to understand the key details that may impact your academic or professional future. Prepare confidently for your next step.

    Date and time: May 21, 17:00 (Minsk time)
    Format: online, Zoom platform
    Participation is free

    Register

  • English Speaking Club: AI Revolution – How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Our Lives

    English Speaking Club: AI Revolution – How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Our Lives

    Artificial intelligence has already become an integral part of everyday life. It recommends what to watch on Netflix, helps write emails, translates texts, chooses routes in navigation apps, and can even compose music or create artwork.

    At our next Speaking Club meeting, together with Anelly Arana, an English teacher and university professor from Florida, we will talk about how AI can assist in learning foreign languages, and what the rapid development of AI technology means for our future.

    What to expect:

    • We’ll discuss how AI is transforming daily life – from voice assistants to smart recommendations.
    • Explore how AI is impacting work and education, and what changes lie ahead.
    • Practice discussing technology in English.
    • Talk about the ethics of AI – should we be afraid of it, and what risks are involved?
    • Discuss AI in creativity – can it produce real art?

    Why join?
    Taking part in the Speaking Club is a great way to improve your spoken English with a native speaker, expand your vocabulary, and connect with like-minded people who are also learning English and striving to speak fluently and confidently.

    Date and time: May 21 at 20:00 (Minsk time)


    Registration

  • Business Book Club: Discussing the Book  «Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work, and World» by Ginni Rometty

    Business Book Club: Discussing the Book  «Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work, and World» by Ginni Rometty

    Friends, we are excited to invite you to the next meeting of our Business Book Club with Egor Ryasov – it will take place on May 17! This time, we’ll be discussing the book «Good Power: Leading Positive Change in Our Lives, Work, and World» by Ginni Rometty.

    Ginni Rometty is an American business executive, former president and CEO, and currently the chairman of IBM’s board of directors. She became the first woman to lead the company, rising from a systems engineer to a top executive. For many years, Ginni was included in the lists of the world’s most powerful women by Fortune and Forbes, topping Fortune’s «50 Most Powerful Women in Business» ranking three times.

    During her leadership, IBM underwent a major digital transformation, and Ginni remained committed to the belief that true success is built on trust, respect, and a drive for positive change.

    In her book, she shares her personal and professional challenges, highlights the importance of core values in business and life, and offers practical principles for building strong teams and inspiring those around you.

    This book is not just a story of success – it’s an inspiring guide for next-generation leaders who want to make a positive difference in the world.

    Join us for the discussion on May 17 at 5:00 PM (Minsk time).

    Registration