Would you like to learn more about another country?  Do you enjoy spending time with international students?  If so, then consider becoming a conversation partner!

If you are interested in signing up, please click here.

What is a Conversation Partner?

A Conversation Partner is someone who is interested in cultural exchange with international students in the English Language Institute. As much as possible, Conversation Partners will be assigned an individual ELI student with whom they will meet with once a week for informal speaking practice. However, we typically have more American volunteers than we have international students. In light of this, those who sign up for the Conversation Partner Program can also get involved in a number of other ways:

• Participate in in-class discussions and activities when invited by an ELI teacher.
• Respond to surveys or interview questions made by ELI students for assignments.
• Join us on certain field trips or other outings on or off campus.
• Meet with groups of students for informal conversation and discussion.

Stop by the ELI office in Anspach 002 to pick up a registration form. On the form, indicate which of the above activities you are interested in.

Who can be a Conversation Partner?

Anyone! As long as you are an English speaker and have the desire to act as a host of the Mount Pleasant and Central Michigan University community.

What is expected of a Conversation Partner?

It is difficult for many international students to meet Americans with whom they can practice their English.  Through the Conversation Partners program, you will meet with an international student at least once a week to discuss topics of mutual interest.  We ask that you spend at least one hour conversing in English. Click Here for tips and discussion ideas

Where and when do Conversation Partners meet?

Meeting times and places will vary depending on what is most convenient for you and your conversation partner.  We do ask that  you meet with your partner near campus in a public place such as the library or a coffee shop.

Who do I contact if I have more questions about becoming a Conversation Partner?

Please contact Caitlin Thelen Hamstra thele1ca@cmich.edu.