At MedPro International, supporting foreign-educated healthcare professionals goes far beyond job placement. A critical part of the Explorers’ journey to the United States involves mastering the English language, both for licensure exams and for effective communication in a U.S. healthcare setting. MedProU’s English language program is designed to prepare Explorers for exams like IELTS, PTE, or OET, but it also helps build the skills and confidence needed to succeed personally and professionally.
Confidence Through Communication
“These are skills exams, not knowledge exams,” said MedPro International English Instructor Victoria Navarrete, referring to assessments like IELTS and PTE. “It’s about demonstrating proficiency in real-world scenarios.” Explorers are expected to have a solid English foundation, which Victoria and fellow instructor Luci Tyrrell strengthen by teaching exam structure and test-taking strategies.
On average, the instructors spend 6 weeks preparing Explorers for the PTE and two months preparing them for IELTS. Tailored instruction is based on an Explorer’s native language, previous English exposure, and individual strengths and challenges.
“Some cultures are great at writing and reading the language, but when you ask them to speak, they struggle,” said Victoria.
MedPro’s instructors offer targeted support to help each individual strengthen all four key language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
To supplement classroom instruction, Luci encourages Explorers to develop simple, consistent habits:
- Watch English-language TV and YouTube videos
- Listen to podcasts for 15 minutes a day
- Read articles or medical journals
“Any exposure is better than none,” Luci explained. “Even a small amount of daily practice can make a big difference.”
Experienced, Passionate Educators
Luci and Victoria bring a global perspective to their teaching. Luci, who grew up in Switzerland and has taught in Greece, France, England, and the US, emphasized her passion for personal connection. “Even in an online setting, I strive to build strong relationships with my students,” she said.
Victoria, a former analytical chemist who transitioned to teaching after volunteering as an English instructor, added that it’s rewarding to see Explorers grow in confidence and let their personalities shine as they gain fluency. She also brings her own language learning experience—having studied German and Spanish—to her teaching approach.
Their lessons go beyond grammar to address the nuances of pronunciation, word and sentence stress, and even cultural phrases. For example, Kenyan students often need help softening rolled R’s, while others may need guidance distinguishing between similar sounds, like “sit” and “seat.”
“Accents are not penalized in these exams,” said Victoria. “What matters is clarity and understanding.”
A Program Designed for Success
MedPro International’s English training program is an essential part of the Explorer journey. With private lessons, structured test prep, and professional communication support, Explorers receive the tools they need to succeed not just on exams—but in their new lives in the US.
To ensure the curriculum remains relevant and impactful, the team continuously evaluates emerging trends, evolving needs, and new ways to better support and prepare Explorers. Native English speakers often phrase the same question in multiple ways, while non-native speakers may only be familiar with one or two variations. This subtle—but critical—language nuance could be a focus of future instruction, helping Explorers build the flexibility and fluency needed to confidently navigate diverse communication styles in the American workplace.
Luci put it best: “Learning English is like playing a musical instrument—it takes time and practice, but with the right guidance, anyone can succeed.” Bottom of Form