Brigham Young University–Hawaii supports international students’ academic success through its English as an International Language Program (EIL), which works in coordination with the university’s Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Program (TESOL). While the two are closely connected, they serve distinct purposes within language education and student support.
The TESOL program at BYU–Hawaii includes a TESOL major, a TESOL education major, and a TESOL certificate. Professors teach TESOL courses and prepare students for professional work in English language teaching. The EIL program focuses on supporting international students as they develop academic English proficiency and adjust to university life. EIL classes are taught by full-time and adjunct faculty and supported by peer education initiatives that assist students both academically and socially.
EIL Peer Educators
Central to the EIL program are its peer educators, which include EIL peer tutors and EIL peer mentors. EIL peer tutors are employed to support students primarily with academic English language development and coursework in their EIL classes. Their work includes helping students strengthen vocabulary, improve reading and writing skills, and gain confidence using English in academic settings, as well as assisting with listening and speaking skills.
EIL peer mentors primarily support first-semester EIL students as they transition to university life. Mentors assist students in learning about campus resources, understanding academic expectations, and developing a sense of belonging. While the roles are distinct, tutors and mentors work closely together, referring students to one another based on individual needs.
National Recognition Through CRLA
EIL peer educators at BYU–Hawaii have been featured in the official newsletter of the Peer Assistance Programs Special Interest Group of the College Reading and Learning Association. The newsletter is not a TESOL publication, but it highlights effective peer-assistance programs nationwide.
EIL peer tutor Faivai Ah Chookoon was featured in the September 2025 newsletter, and EIL peer mentor Charlene Ram was featured in the September 2024 issue. Both articles highlighted the impact of peer-led academic language support and mentoring on international students' success. Students who participate in the EIL peer educator programs may earn up to three CRLA certificates.
Reflecting on the recognition, Ram said the work of EIL peer educators demonstrates the university’s broader approach to student support. “I’ve seen how our involvement and efforts reflect BYU–Hawaii’s innovative approach to combining language education, tutoring, and mentoring,” she said. “It’s inspiring to watch multilingual students succeed both in school and in life while preparing for meaningful careers around the world after graduation.”
Learning Through Peer Connection
As a teacher who has worked with EIL peer education for several years, Professor Amanda Wallace had this to share, “I value the ways students learn from one another. Peer educators create learning environments where students feel comfortable asking questions, practicing academic English, and engaging more fully in class.” These peer-to-peer interactions complement classroom instruction and contribute to student confidence and persistence.
Wallace emphasized the importance of peer educators in supporting international students. “Teachers in peer education say they value how students learn from each other,” Wallace said. “Students often connect in ways teachers cannot. EIL peer educators support classes, help international students adjust to campus life, and build confidence, community, and a sense of belonging for future international students.”
Sharing Impact Beyond Campus
In October 2025, Ah Chookoon and Ram presented “The Impact of Peer Leadership on International Student Success” at the Church Educational System Collaborative Conference in Provo, Utah. Drawing on research and personal experience, they shared how peer leadership helps EIL students participate more actively in class, seek support when needed, and continue their studies through graduation.
As international students themselves, both presenters discussed the challenges of adjusting to academic expectations in the United States and how peer support helps address language, cultural, and participation barriers. Their presentation drew interest from other education programs, including BYU–Pathway Worldwide.
“I felt that what we do resonates with others who are trying to bridge the gap between students and teachers,” Ah Chookoon said. “We must remember that the majority of these international students come from countries where they hardly speak English, and our work has shown that getting guidance and help from their peers makes learning a more effective and enriching experience.”
Helping Students Develop Their Academic Voice
In addition to academic support, the EIL program emphasizes helping students maintain their identities while developing confidence in academic English. EIL peer educators encourage students to practice English through participation and growth, recognizing English as an international language used by diverse speakers.
“We help hundreds of students progress in their academic journey, and seeing their growth has been one of the greatest rewards,” Ah Chookoon said.
With BYU–Hawaii’s multicultural student population, EIL peer tutors and mentors play an essential role in supporting international students’ academic success and overall university experience. Their work continues to contribute to student learning, connection, and persistence on campus.
