Language buddy evening a success
The first language buddy evening organized by the Sussex Centre for Language Studies (SCLS) was a resounding success.
The aim of the event on 17 November was to bring together Sussex students who are learning foreign languages, in a range of SCLS language courses, with overseas and exchange students who are studying English.
Brandishing colour-coded language vouchers and wearing badges identifying their native languages, students mingled readily, striking up conversations to practise English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish, plus a few more languages still less frequently heard on campus, including Icelandic and Lithuanian.
The IDS bar resounded with lively conversation and, in the relaxed atmosphere, many new buddies were found.
One student commented: “It was really useful, I helped a girl with her Italian and she helped me with my English. We’re now Facebook friends and will meet up again next week.” Another said: “It made me realise that reality is so different from seminar. I plan to contact ‘my new buddy’ and try to arrange weekly meetings with her to get into the habit of speaking. So, it was definitely a positive experience."
A further event will be planned for next term. In the meantime, if you are looking for a language buddy you can use the forums at the open-access Study Direct site to advertise for a buddy. You will also find some other useful links, resources and notification of events.