Colombian actor Manuel Sarmiento has a dream to act in a production in an English-speaking role.
When he learned through a close friend that the University of Memphis has a program that would allow him to improve his English language skills, he took that opportunity to temporarily move to Memphis to enroll in the UofM Intensive English for Internationals program.
“Maybe this is my first step to accomplish this goal,” he said.
Prior to his arrival in Memphis, Sarmiento completed a production in a series called One Hundred Years of Solitude for Netflix. The series, filmed entirely in Colombia, is directed by Alex García López and Laura Mora and is based on the novel by Nobel Prize winning author Gabriel García Márquez.
Before enrolling in the Intensive English for Internationals (IEI) program, Sarmiento had not studied English in more than 12 years, having previously studied it in England.
“My goal is to get to the advanced level step-by-step,” Sarmiento said. “You can accomplish what you have purposed in this life.”
When he arrived, Sarmiento was a lower intermediate level and completed the program at an upper intermediate level. What stood out to him the most was when he could begin to understand native people talking.
“Watching students come in feeling unsure and leave as confident communicators is truly amazing,” Fareed Bordbar, PhD, director of the IEI program said. “You don’t just see their language skills improve — you see them grow as individuals. Whether it’s contributing to a class discussion, presenting a project, or simply sharing their ideas, the transformation is incredible.”
The IEI program offers a comprehensive study of the English language for students interested in improving their speaking, listening, reading and writing proficiency in English.
“It’s inspiring to see the diversity of languages, cultures and perspectives that enrich our program,” Bordbar said. “At its core, IEI is all about fostering language development, cultural exchange and personal and professional growth, and it’s an honor to be part of it.”
The eight-week program is a daytime intensive program and is offered with starting dates in January, March, May, August and October. There are three levels offered: basic, intermediate and advanced. Students are tested prior to placement in one of the three courses, preparing students for entry into undergraduate and graduate programs throughout the U.S.
“The IEI program is more than just an English class. It’s a place where you can build a strong foundation for your future,” Bordbar said. “It’s a supportive environment where you’ll gain the communication skills you need to thrive in the U.S., whether in school, work or everyday life. This program is designed to help you succeed academically, professionally and personally, all while being part of a community that genuinely cares about your progress.”
“Mistakes are part of the learning process here, and every challenge is an opportunity to grow. If you’re ready to take that next step and unlock your potential, IEI is the right choice for you.”
Since the pandemic, the program has experienced significant growth, with an 18% increase in enrollment during the fall of 2024 compared to the previous year.
Geared toward adult learners and professionals, the evening program has also seen remarkable success, with enrollment tripling among students from the surrounding community.
Field trips to local attractions are built into the curriculum to offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the city.
“My favorite thing about the IEI program is the incredible sense of community we’ve created. It’s not just about learning English; it’s about bringing people from all over the world together to connect, share their cultures and support each other as they work toward their goals,” Bordbar said.
“I think I improved my skills here at the University of Memphis,” Sarmiento said. “I found a lot of good friendly people here and had nice relationships with the teachers and classmates. Everybody here is very warm and friendly.”
Sarmiento said living in Memphis was quite a contrast to what he was used to back home living in a city with nine million people in Bogotá, Colombia.
“I think here [in the City of Memphis] is very easy to live. People are very friendly, and the food is delicious,” he said. “The culture, the music. I love jazz and blues and soul music. I had a lot of new friends; I am full of good moments living in my heart with my experience here.”
This winter, you can watch Sarmiento in One Hundred Years of Solitude on Netflix.
To learn more about the Intensive English for Internationals program visit: memphis.edu/iei/about/index.php
