Sometimes the hardest part about learning a new language can be just finding a partner to practice with! This is exactly what our English Conversation Clubs provide to Marin community members needing to improve their English skills, a comfortable environment to have conversations! For the volunteers it is an opportunity to help our community by using our knowledge and familiarity of the English language to help others in our community. For the volunteers the clubs are not only a chance to teach but also chance to learn. At the clubs, you learn so much about different people from different countries. Through the conversation club you learn about people’s stories, their cultures, and their lives, it is a great way to get to know the people who make up our community. It is a rewarding experience that allows time to share stories, make connections, and most importantly gives the students a chance to speak English.
It is an extremely meaningful experience for the students who come to practice their English. When I asked one of student I had the opportunity of working with why she liked coming she said “because I need to practice my English and all the people are so friendly. You get to know people, you practice! And yes clearly my English has improved.” She explained to me how living in Marin and not speaking English very well can be very isolating, she does not work here because of her English abilities and she misses that. She spoke about how naturally she is a very social person but is inhibited here in Marin from interacting with people because she lacks confidence in her English skills. She likes to come to the clubs because it gives her the opportunity to talk with people! Another student commented he likes the clubs because, “I don’t want to miss anything and sometimes people talk in English so fast! The clubs really help me understand!”
I highly encourage you to come give the clubs a try, it truly is a great way learn a bit about a neighbor and yourself!
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