Language Link
Looking to improve your fluency in a second language?
The ERC’s Language Link program offers BU students, faculty, staff, and alumni an opportunity to engage in
language conversation groups in many languages, including English, so that you can stay fluent in your
non-native languages. These small, informal weekly discussions often become cultural exchanges rather than just
conversations. Through Language Link, individuals expand their vocabulary and cultural experiences in addition
to improving their pronunciation.
Arabic
Mandarin Chinese
English
French
German
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Hindi**
Turkish**
*Please note language availability can vary
from semester to semester.
**Hindi and Turkish are offered only through our Let’s Speak program in collaboration with Global House.
Language Link groups are offered at three levels:
beginner (1-2 semesters of exposure)
intermediate
(1-3 years of exposure)
advanced level (3+ years of exposure)
See FAQs to learn more
about the levels and determine which one is best for you.
Language Link groups offer the perfect opportunity to connect with others interested in language and
culture!
The goal of Language Link is to have fun in conjunction with increasing language proficiency,
confidence,
and social interaction in another language. Language Link leaders are not teachers or tutors; they are
facilitators of conversation. Language Link is not a formal class but instead is an informal opportunity
to
practice speaking a language. Students do not need to be enrolled in a language course at BU in order to
participate.
What does a Language Link appointment look like?
Language Link sessions are led
by native speakers of the chosen language and can hold up to 8 participants. These sessions are 30 minutes long
and can include a variety of cultural discussion topics. The topic of conversation is directed by the interests
of the participants and the Language Link Leader.
What should I not expect?
You don’t have to have perfect grammar
to participate in Language Link! This is a judgement free space for you to make mistakes and grow more
comfortable with your speaking proficiency. Because this is not a classroom environment, Language Link Leaders
cannot correct or advise you on course assignments. You should also not expect the Leader to do all the talking;
these sessions are for your benefit!
How do I get the most out of my appointment?
Because Language
Link sessions are only 30 minutes in length, it is very important that you arrive on time. If you arrive 15
minutes late, you’ll miss half the conversation. Participants that flourish come prepared to contribute to the
conversation in an open, respectful manner. If you’re very nervous, think beforehand about some topics that
you’d feel comfortable talking about. Always remember that everyone in your group is at your same proficiency
level so you’re all learning together.
Is Language Link the only resource for
me?
No! If you’re enrolled in a foreign language course at BU and need guidance with your course
material then
ERC Peer Tutoring is a great resource.
Participants interested in American Sign Language (ASL) conversation groups should contact
the Deaf Studies department directly at deafstdy@bu.edu.
Finally,
we recommend you explore our
Resource Guide page to see if anything else might benefit you.
Should I prepare myself before attending Language
Link?
Yes, be prepared to participate! Your participation is vital to the success of the
program. It’s also important to be prepared to tell the leader what you hope to accomplish by
participating in the groups.”
How do I get in touch with my Language Link Leader?
Your group selection confirmation e-mail contains the contact information for your leader.
Where do I go for my group?
You will receive a confirmation email from TutorTrac (the ERC’s scheduling system) once you
have signed up for a Language Link group. Your group’s location will be included in this email. If you
are unsure of the location, please contact your leader as soon as possible.
Groups meet in the Yawkey Center for Student Services, 100 Bay State Rd. in either Room 555 or
Room 103 Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Sessions outside of those hours may be held remotely via Zoom.
