English for Work
English for Work is a free, quarter-long program for immigrants and refugees to improve their English language skills and prepare for employment in the United States.
About English for Work
Students practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing while learning about topics such as skills and strengths, job search, resumes, and interviewing. Students participate in mock interviews conducted by local employers.
Summer English for Work
- In-Person Orientation starts July 10. Program: August 6-August 30
- Free 4-week program for intermediate level students to prepare for the full English for Work program in fall quarter
- Attend in-person classes two times per week offered at different locations: Rainier Beach Branch, Hopelink Redmond, Hopelink Shoreline, morning and afternoon options available
- Participate in conversation classes one day a week on Zoom
- Learn vocabulary and grammar related to identifying skills and strengths, job trends, and career planning
- Program highlights: Students receive individualized support, gain confidence speaking in English, and learn language skills, vocabulary, and technology skills essential for success in the fall program
Fall English for Work
- Online Orientation starts September 17. Program: September 30-December 13
- Free 10-week program for intermediate and advanced level students
- Attend classes two times per week on Zoom; morning and evening options available
- Participate in supplemental in-person classes on Fridays at Rainier Beach Branch, Hopelink Redmond, Hopelink Shoreline
- Learning topics include resumes, job search, interviewing, and U.S. workplace
- Program highlights: Students receive 1-on-1 career advising, write resumes, and do practice job interviews with local employers
Eligibility
To participate in the English for Work program, students must:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Plan to get a job in the U.S. or enroll in job training/college to prepare to get a job within the next 6 months.
- Not have a B-1, B-2, F-1, J-1, or M-1 visa.
- Live in north and east King County (for example, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Shoreline) or in the city of Seattle. Newly arrived refugees living in surrounding areas are welcome to apply for the program.
Apply to English to Work program
To apply to join the summer or fall English for Work class you can fill out the online contact form, contact Hopelink by phone at 425-250-3007, or email englishforwork@hopelink.org.
Ready to Work
Ready to Work is a class for adult ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students who want to improve their English and job skills, and who are currently looking for a job. Low-income adults who live in Seattle and are eligible to work can register for this class. This program is funded by the City of Seattle.