When you walk into the Library’s Jones Meeting Center any Thursday at 6 p.m., you’ll find a diverse group of people practicing their Spanish language skills together in everyday, laidback conversation.
Dr. David Korfhagen, assistant professor of Spanish at ETSU, volunteers his time to facilitate the Library’s weekly Spanish conversation group.
One of Dr. Korfhagen’s goals for the program is to create a relaxed, engaging environment where anyone can practice and grow their language skills, one conversation at a time.
The group is open to Spanish speakers of all levels. Its format is fluid from week to week, depending on the fluency of the attendees. Sometimes the conversation takes shape in one big group; when there is a mix of levels present, small groups form. If the group wants guided help, Dr. Korfhagen will give a short lesson.
This fluidity allows the conversations to be challenging, but not overwhelming, for attendees. Dr. Korfhagen wants the program to meet people wherever they are in their language learning journey.
Chad, a medical student at Quillen College of Medicine, has been attending the Library’s Spanish group for years. He said his Spanish skills have greatly improved because of these weekly conversations.
I appreciate that all learners, regardless of skill level, can come and enjoy the conversation. While I am a much more experienced speaker now, there was a time when I was just starting out. I have never once felt out of place in the years I’ve been coming to this meeting.”
Along with building people’s language skills, Dr. Korfhagen hopes these weekly conversations create a space to connect with others and “promote positive community involvement.”
This has been the case for Chad, who sees his time at the Library as vital to his future work as a doctor in the community.
He said, “There are many patients in our area who only speak Spanish. It’s never a good feeling when you go to the doctor and you’re not sure they understand what’s going on because of a language barrier.”
“By learning Spanish,” Chad continued, “I hope to eliminate that barrier when seeing patients.”
Join your Library’s Spanish conversation group this Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Jones Meeting Center. Whatever step you’re at in your language learning journey, you’re welcome!
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