Learning languages is a great way to discover other cultures, make new friends, and add a new skill to your resume. One of my favorite ways to learn and practice French is through language exchanges. A language exchange can be as simple as a conversation between friends.
In 2022, I went to France and met one of my language exchange partners in person! It was amazing how speaking the same language could create cross-cultural connections.
Attending events at the French Library (such as the Alors Conversation Club) is a fantastic way to meet prospective language partners. So the next time you’re at the French Library, be on the lookout for your next language exchange partner!
*** John Strachan, French Library Member
My Experience with Language Exchanges
I first started doing language exchanges when I lived in Morocco. I met with a translator every week so he could practice English and I could practice French. We did these language exchanges for 3 years. I went from not knowing any French to using my language skills to get a job teaching in France! Our weekly conversations were essential to improving my French level. Fast forward to the Covid pandemic in 2020, I began to do multiple online language exchanges each week with people from various countries. It was a fantastic way to supplement my reading and listening practice. I have also made good friends thanks to my language exchanges.
In 2022, I went to France and met one of my language exchange partners in person! It was amazing how speaking the same language could create cross-cultural connections.
Tips for Doing Language Exchanges
So how do language exchanges work? In general, I try to find people who want to learn English, although occasionally I do language exchanges with other French language learners. I have used websites such as iTalki, Conversation Exchange, and Tandem to find language partners. I also have done language exchanges with friends I already know. It may take a few tries to match with a person that is right for you. Normally, I meet on Zoom or Skype for 1 hour each week with my language partners. We speak for 30 minutes in English and 30 minutes in French. Our conversations range from mundane conversations about our daily life to deeper conversations about politics, culture, and philosophy. The important thing to remember is this is not a class, rather it is a conversation with a friend.Language Exchanges and the French Library
Attending events at the French Library (such as the Alors Conversation Club) is a fantastic way to meet prospective language partners. So the next time you’re at the French Library, be on the lookout for your next language exchange partner!
*** John Strachan, French Library Member
