Looking for a way to practice a language, meet other Longhorns, and connect across cultures this fall? Language Circles are back at International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)!
After launching a refreshed Language Circles format last spring, ISSS is continuing the program this fall with opportunities to practice Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and English. Whether you are just beginning to learn a language, want more opportunities to practice, or are a fluent speaker interested in helping others learn, Language Circles offer a welcoming and casual space to connect.
What Are Language Circles?
Language Circles bring together students from across The University of Texas at Austin who share an interest in language and culture. Rather than a formal language class, each circle provides an informal environment where students can practice speaking, learn from one another, and meet new people.
Last spring, ISSS introduced a new format for the program, focusing on Spanish, Korean, and Mandarin. At the first event under the new format, circles included a mix of native speakers, students actively studying the language, and beginners interested in learning something new.
The result was more than language practice. Students connected over culture, food, travel, daily life, and their experiences at UT Austin.
This fall, we are excited to continue building that community!
Join Us This Fall
ISSS will host three Language Circles meetings during the fall semester, each at 5 p.m., and held in the Global Lounge at the Texas Global office:
- September 16.
- October 7.
- November 11.
Each meeting will include a topic or activity provided by ISSS to help get conversations started and keep them moving. From there, students can practice at their own pace and see where the conversation takes them.
And remember: all skill levels are welcome. You do not need to be enrolled in a language course or speak the language fluently to participate.
Share Your Skills as a Language Circle Leader
Already comfortable speaking Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, or English? Consider volunteering as a Language Circle leader!
Leaders help guide conversations, encourage participation, and answer questions. You do not need to prepare a lesson or teach a formal class. ISSS will provide the topic or activity for each hosted meeting, so leaders can focus on helping their group connect and practice.
Leaders are also welcome to organize additional informal gatherings outside of the three ISSS-hosted meetings if their group wants even more opportunities to practice throughout the semester.
Looking for Another Language?
While ISSS Language Circles focus on Spanish, Korean, Mandarin, and English, there are opportunities to practice many other languages across the Forty Acres.
ISSS works with the Texas Language Center to connect students with additional language conversation opportunities available through UT Austin. If the language you want to practice is not offered through Language Circles, explore the Texas Language Center’s Language Conversation Practice Meetings to find other groups across campus.
Ready to Join the Conversation?
Whether you are practicing a language you have studied for years, trying to become more comfortable speaking, sharing your skills with other students, or starting with your very first phrase, there is a place for you at the table.
Let us know you’re interested in participating in Language Circles this fall, and keep an eye on the ISSS Events page to register for each month’s meeting.
We look forward to seeing where the conversation takes you this fall!
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
