American accent Training Frequently asked Questions (FAQ’s)
My schedule is very busy, will it be difficult for me to sound like a native English speaker?
With diligent practice, and attending all American accent sessions, clients have been expected to experience at least 50% change in their accent. To modify a foreign accent takes hard work and dedication. It cannot be done in the classroom alone. To achieve the greatest improvement possible, the client must practice outside of class using the accent modification training materials. These materials include a detailed field tested practice workbook and audio CD's.
How much will this program cost?
There are several programs available which are flexible and affordable, please contact our office for a customized quote. Once you have contacted our office, and a speech coach has performed a personal analysis of your speech, we can then determine what type of program would be best for you and how long it will be. For example, we offer 6 and 12, 18, and 24 session programs and self study with individualized coaching. There are also advanced classes that are available. All of our programs have a core structure, but a customized to meet our individual and corporate clients needs.
I am only in Chicago for a short time, what kind of programs do you offer for me?
There are a couple of options. You can take the comprehensive speech analysis and have an initial meeting with your accent coach in our downtown headquarters. Your coach will design a sample program for you while you are in town, and the remaining sessions can be handled through our online meeting center. Click here for a Free Initial Speech Analysis with a Bonus 30 minute Consultation & PDF download of our "English pronunciation guide".
I travel extensively for work, but I like the idea of this program, what if I am sick, or traveling and miss a class?
If cancellations are made with a 24 hour notice, the session will be rescheduled with your instructor. You can reschedule class 3 times throughout the course.
What is the Advanced program?
The Advanced programs are for graduates of our 6-12 session workshops: custom designed to work on more advanced techniques, such as rate of speech, intonation, presentation skills, etc.
How can this program help me with presentations?
Once the speech professional completes your speech analysis, you will have a better understanding on where you are making errors. Your speech professional will then teach you appropriate accent reduction techniques, and you will be critiqued on presentation techniques as you work with your coach. The program is customized to meet the needs of our clients.
How do I sign up for this program and what do I need to get started?
The first step is to visit our Online scheduler page, and sign up for a no-obligation consultation with our staff. During your appointment with our staff, you can get all of your questions answered. If you don't have access to the internet, you can call our office Monday- Friday, from 8am-5pm Central standard time, and speak with our assistant. Payment is due in full at the time the 1st class. If you are taking class via internet, you will need a web-camera. Contact our office and let us demonstrate our convenient virtual classroom system.
Tracey Ingram, M.A, M.S, Accent Coach
The Director of the Institute is Tracey Ingram M.A, M.S. who is a licensed speech and hearing professional.
Well planned for my needs!
"The phonetic study of my speech
was impressive. The lessons
and
audio CD's were well planned for my needs and made it easy to practice.
I still can't believe how much my
speech has changed." Tuoc Huu Do, M.D. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
