Language sharing program
USpeak is a language sharing program open to all UCalgary international and Canadian students. This program is for you if you're studying a language and have a general interest in languages.
About USpeak
USpeak is a program for all language enthusiasts! When you submit your application, USpeak will pair you with one or two partners who a) speak a language that you want to practice and improve and b) are interested in learning a language you know. You'll have the chance to:
- Practice and improve your skills in the language of your choice with the support of your partner(s)
- Help your match practice and improve their skills in their language of choice by providing ongoing feedback and guidance
- Connect with a group of students interested in the same languages as you
- Attend monthly social and language development events where you'll meet other students who are interested in sharing languages
- Earn a UCalgary Digital Badge for your participation
Time commitment:
- Meet with your match at least once a week during the semester (meetings can be held in-person or online)
- Attend the new participant training session on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in MSC275
- Submit mid-semester and end-of-semester progress reports
- Complete ongoing goal-setting and reflection activities to track your learning
If you have questions about the program, email uspeak@ucalgary.ca.
Interested in participating? Applications for winter 2024 are due on Jan. 21, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Apply now
Language Support
The UCalgary and Calgary community has resources, events, and programs for language learning, practice, and sharing.
After you submit your application
Based on your language preferences, we'll match you with one or more conversation partner(s). You and your conversation partner will be introduced over email in late January. After the introduction, you and your partner will discuss regular times to meet up and practice your respective languages. Participant training will be on Jan. 30, 2024, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in MSC275 to support you in creating a plan for your language journey this semester.
Please note: Because conversation partner pairings are based on the applicant pool, we can't guarantee that all applicants will be matched. If you're not matched with a conversation partner, we'll email you to alternate ways of participating in the USpeak program.
Curious in seeing what the USpeak program is about?
Interested in meeting other students interested in the same language(s) as you? Attend the USpeak Program Intro Event on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in MSC275.