International Ambassadors

When you come to America, you might be worried much about English. At the first semester, it is difficult and challenging to everyone. However, you can actively start improving your English from the first semester at the University of Minnesota. I want to introduce three very useful and beneficial resources to learn English as well as understand American culture.

1. TandemPlus: Language Exchange
TandemPlus involves a partnership between two fluent speakers of different languages. For example, if you speak Japanese and are studying English, you might be matched with a native English speaker who is learning Japanese for face-to-face exchanges.

http://languagecenter.cla.umn.edu/tandem/

2. Cultural Discussion Group
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) organizes cross-cultural discussion groups which often consist of both international and U.S. students. Members of these groups meet once a week to share cross-cultural experiences, personal thoughts, and feelings in a relaxed atmosphere. Examples of the topics discussed in the past are culture shock, cultural customs, friendship/relationships, communication styles, family, and future aspirations.

http://www.isss.umn.edu/programs/disgroup/

3. Small World Coffee Hour
Also held by International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), Small World Coffee Hour (SWCH) gives all international and US students the opportunity to meet with each other in a relaxing environment and to learn about other cultures and traditions around the world. SWCH events are free and take place every other Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Approximately 200 people attend each event, so come join us in the fun!

http://www.isss.umn.edu/programs/smallworld/