Hello, everyone! Now that we’re well into the semester, Texas Global and ISSS are kicking off their Language Circles program for the semester.
What are Language Circles, you might ask? Well, that’s a great question!
What are Language Circles?
Formerly known as Partnerships to Advance Language Study (PALS), the Language Circles program helps international and U.S. students get involved with language learning in an informal, peer-to-peer setting.
Once a week, Language Circle members gather to practice their language skills, learn about culture and meet fellow UT students.
Why should I join a Language Circle?
Language Circles provide a great opportunity to practice new languages, teach and learn from fellow students, and make new friendships in the process.
Because the circles are student-led, they allow participants to practice languages beyond the classroom in a casual, non-intimidating setting. Language Circles are all about learning new skills and gaining confidence in speaking a new language in an easygoing way — it’s OK to make mistakes!
The languages being offered this semester are Korean, French and Mandarin Chinese.
And if you’re interested in gaining leadership experience by teaching a language you know, then consider becoming a Language Circle Leader!
What does a Language Circle Leader do?
Language Circle Leaders can help participants with language learning by providing lesson plans, leading conversations and planning events. Leaders can also help program participants in their circle by polling them about what they’d like to learn, creating PowerPoint visuals, and devising lesson plans around specific themes or cultural events.
If these activities sound interesting to you, then you may be a Language Circle Leader waiting to happen! And it’s never too late to become a leader. Students are welcome to sign up throughout the semester.
How can I join a Language Circle?
If you missed the Language Circles kickoff event on Sept. 22, you can still join anytime during the semester by emailing intercultural@austin.utexas.edu or visiting the Texas Global office on campus in the Main Building (MAI 7).
Let the staff know which languages you’re interested in practicing, and whether you’re interested in becoming a Language Circle Leader. If you’re applying as a participant, make sure to reach out to your Language Circle Leader once you are given their contact info.
If leading or participating in a Language Circle sounds like an interesting experience to you, we highly encourage you to reach out! Language Circles are unique experiences that foster new friendships from many different backgrounds and can help you gain new language skills that last a lifetime.
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