Talk Time Opens Language Learning for English Language Center Students
- Oct 12, 2023
The Talk Time program offered by the English Language Center (ELC) at The University of Texas at Austin aims to help ELC students practice their English while creating partnerships between international and U.S. students alike.
For one hour every week, students pair up with a designated native English-speaking volunteer to converse at a beginner, intermediate or advanced level, as they choose. Each group converses on everyday topics ranging from family to transportation.
Offering English language programs for students at every proficiency level, the ELC currently serves an estimated annual enrollment of 250 students from 40 different countries worldwide. Michael Smith, director of the English Language Center, spoke about how Talk Time aims to help ELC students in forging connections with native English speakers.
“We know that the best way they’re going to learn the language is to connect with native speakers in some way, and it’s tough to do that,” Smith said. “So we create different kinds of activities to connect them with native speakers; Talk Time is one of those ways we do that.”
As ELC students hone their English-speaking skills with native speakers, Talk Time helps blossom these connections into friendships. UT Austin student Peter Kim, a volunteer for Talk Time, said that his interactions with Talk Time participants often extend beyond just the program.
“Hanging out with students outside, — hockey or going to the park — is really, really sweet,” Kim said. “They have become some of my really close friends. It’s been cool to see it grow into a real friendship.”
Take a look back at the experiences of a past Talk Time participant. To inquire about getting involved with Talk Time as a volunteer, contact ekbutki@austin.utexas.edu.
