Language & Culture

International Friendships has a variety of opportunities available to you to practice your conversational English, learn about American culture, and help get accustomed to life in the U.S. You can participate in our English conversation partner program, get an American friendships partner, participate in one of our English conversation classes, or learn more about American culture with other international students.

English Conversation Partners

By signing up to have an English conversation partner, you can improve your English with the help of a native English speaker. We have American volunteers who are willing to meet with you for an average of one hour per week. Click here for more information and to sign up.

Friendships Partners

You can be matched with an individual or family in the Columbus area with whom you can visit, enjoy an occasional meal, celebrate holidays, participate in community events, or just relax in conversation. This is an opportunity for you to experience American life in a non-university setting and to learn firsthand about culture in the United States. Click here for more information and to sign up.

English Conversation Classes

These classes emphasize conversational English practice. Each week a different aspect of American culture will be discussed: making friends, family life, sports, humor, and holidays. There is a very low ratio (1-3) of native speakers to international participants. Click here for information and to sign up.

Culture, Conversation, and Cuisine Gatherings

These gatherings occur in American homes, are informal, and involve food and conversation about culture. This is not an ESL class, but it will be an opportunity for you to practice your English, learn about American culture, and share some about your own culture. The groups will meet once a month for three months. In this way you can build your friendship with the same Americans over a period of time. Click here for more information and to sign up.