hasetsua2@lopers.unk.edu
The English Conversation Table was held in the Food Court at the Student Union from 4-5 p.m. on Feb. 8. The English Language Institute which is part of the Office of International Education is in charge of the event.
The English Language Institute has a couple of goals for the conversation tables. They want students that are enrolled in the English Language Institute to have an opportunity to practice speaking in English with other students. Their other goal is for domestic students and students at UNK to have the opportunity to sit down together in a comfortable situation. This gives them the opportunity to meet new friends or new people. They can just relax and talk with each other which is something that is uncommon in a classroom setting.
About 50 students were involved in the event. Students from Japan, China, Spain, Cuba, the United States, Korea and Morocco joined this event. They enjoyed talking with people from different countries and making new friends.
“We are always looking for more students,” said Lisa Terry, English Language Institute educator and leader of the English Conversation Table. “It’s opened up to the community as well faculty, staff and people in the Kearney area. Of course, you are welcome to bring your kids if it’s after school. You don’t have to pre-register, so just come to the Student Union food court and sign your name.”
At the end of the Conversation Table, three students were awarded via a raffle, and they received prizes. Prizes include valentine’s chocolate assortments, teddy bears and snacks.
“I am very happy to get the prize,” said Hinata Aoki, the English Language Institute student who was awarded in the Conversation Table. “I look forward to the Conversation Table every week as I can meet new people and make new friends at this event. Through this event, I think my speaking skills in English have improved.”
Students can make announcements to the participants at the end of the Conversation Table. The Japanese Association at Kearney, which is an International Student Organization, announced their Japanese Festival on Feb. 13 after the meeting.
The English Conversation Table started on Feb. 1 and will continue until March 8 this semester. They will continue to have their meetings at the Student Union food court from 4-5 p.m. every Tuesday.
