Brown University Student Teaches Practical English to Teens at Providence Library

Brown University rising sophomore Justin Dunn spent the summer teaching a four-week intermediate English course for teenagers at the Providence Public Library. The class was created through the university's SPRINT-iProv fellowship, which places undergraduates in full-time summer positions with nonprofit organizations throughout the Rhode Island capital. Dunn was one of 40 Brown students participating in the fellowship program.

Dunn designed the curriculum around practical language skills the students could use immediately. Lessons covered topics including food, shopping, art, employment, and outer space, with vocabulary games and journal writing to encourage expression. The approach emphasized moving beyond worksheets to build confidence using English in everyday situations.

When the class studied food and shopping vocabulary, Dunn took students to a nearby Maruichi market to practice speaking with a cashier. Students also began building their own résumés, learning English terminology to describe their education, activities, work experience, and abilities. Dunn said this language preparation could help teens who may soon be looking for jobs.

Dunn noted that several of his co-workers at the library had originally come to the United States as immigrants and first accessed the library through its English-language programs before later becoming employees. He described a strong sense of community at the library and said he learned as much from the experience as the students did, gaining a deeper understanding of Providence and its residents.

The program reflects a model where community institutions serve as both entry points for newcomers and pathways to employment. Dunn's fellowship placement allowed him to contribute to that cycle while developing his own teaching skills and community connections during the summer term.