Learn about the benefits and expectations of participating in the ELC’s Conversation Partner Program.
About
Students enrolled in the English Language Center want to make American friends, practice their English skills, and participate in an American experience.
As a volunteer, you will help international students adjust to life in the U.S., learn about American culture, and practice their English skills.
Partners are matched based on preferences and interests. Matches are typically made at the beginning of Fall and Spring semesters, but applications are accepted and encouraged on an ongoing basis. At times, new matches are needed mid-semester.
Students and their conversation partners enjoy rock climbing at the Student Recreation Center.
Celebrate Holidays
ELC events include cultural activities like this Easter egg hunt.
Enjoy the Beach
Many UNCW students enjoy swimming and surfing in the ocean.
Benefits
Learn about other cultures and countries
Make new friends
Participate in local group activities each week at no cost
Improve your cross-cultural understanding and intercultural communication skills
Commitment & Expectations
Time Commitment
3+ hours per week
5 weeks, 8 weeks, or full semester options are available.
Schedule at least one regular one-on-one meeting per week (for about an hour).
Attend weekly ELC group activities when possible.
If you are not able to commit to a minimum of 3 hours every week, please sign up at a later time when you are able to do so.
Language
While at times you may learn or practice a bit of the language(s) your partner speaks, the primary language of conversation should be English.
No foreign language experience or knowledge needed.
Help Your Partner Adjust
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming. Check in with your partner every few days, especially right after they arrive, to make sure they are fitting in, meeting friends and roommates, and having their needs met.
Talk about U.S. culture, habits, or lifestyle; show them around campus; and answer their questions.
Professional Conduct
Conversation partners should maintain a friendly but professional relationship with each other. This means:
No dating while working together
No drinking alcohol, even if you are both 21
Try to meet in public spaces, at least for the first few meetings.
Be respectful of each other’s worldviews (do not proselytize about religion or politics).
Cancellations
Volunteers and ELC students must cancel at least a day in advance if they are unable to make their scheduled weekly meeting.
A late cancellation occurs when a student cancels the session within 8 hours of appointed time.
A no-show occurs when a student does not show up to the meeting for at least 15 minutes.
Volunteers are required to wait for at least 15 minutes before leaving.
Plagiarism
ELC students may ask their volunteer partner to help them with their homework. This is an acceptable request, but rather than doing the work for them or correcting all their mistakes, volunteers should only encourage self-correction through guided instruction. If a volunteer is uncomfortable with the amount of correction a student is asking them to do, they should refer the student to their instructors for assistance.
Suggested Activities
You don’t need to have a car or spend much money—or any—to have fun and be a wonderful partner!
Enjoy Free Resident Day at Airlie Gardens and the Cape Fear Museum the first Sunday of each month (UNCW ID or valid state ID with New Hanover County address required for free admission).
