This program pairs students, scholars, and staff who use English as an additional language (EAL) with English-speaking faculty and staff for informal, one-on-one conversations. The program fosters cultural exchange, helps international participants acclimate to U.S. culture, and creates opportunities for meaningful friendships.

Who Can Participate?

• English-speaking faculty/staff: Any faculty or staff member may apply. Students must be employed by the university to participate.
• EAL participants: Any students, faculty, or staff seeking to practice English are eligible.

Joining the Program

1. Sign-Up: Complete this simple intake form by February 12th 
2. Get Matched: Participants will be paired based on availability, with matches shared within one week of the sign-up deadline.
3. Connect: Once matched, reach out to your partner and schedule your first meeting.

To help you get started, check out our Guide for Conversation Partners, which includes meeting tips, conversation topics, and etiquette suggestions.

For any questions or concerns during the program, contact The Center for Language and Culture Learning: dwllc-clcl@uiowa.edu 

Note: Please do not specify to be partnered with someone from a specific country or language. We are unable to meet these requests.

Participant Testimonials

• “Just wanted to say thanks to this program. Since joining, my partner and I have met almost every week for 10 years. We got to know each other’s family and hobbies—that’s 10 years of friendship.” — Changhui, Student
• “This has been a most rewarding program for me. My partner is delightful, and I’ve learned so much about Chinese culture. It’s also given me a new perspective on how other cultures view Americans.” — Wayne Abbott, Director of Engineering Services
• “Last semester, I had such a great experience with my conversation partner. We became lifelong friends.” — Shayna, Graduate Student