The CMLC Conversation Partner Program brings English language speakers and learners together for one-on-one conversations and meaningful connections!
The Conversation Partner Program is a unique opportunity for members of our international community practice speaking with a member of our local community in an informal and friendly setting!
There is no training required and no specific curriculum. Each set of partners decides what they want to talk about and how often to meet, with the expectation of at least one hour per week. Once paired, they meet regularly to speak English, learn about each other’s cultures, and maybe even explore the community!
We do ask that once partnered, people commit to a minimum of 3 months of involvement in the program.
Other language options: please note that we are continuously exploring ways to expand our program to offer a variety of language support and exchange. Unfortunately, at this time, we are limited to matching people looking for assistance in improving their English proficiency. This is still a great opportunity to learn about other cultures though!
“Having a Conversation Partner was one of the best ways I got to see Corvallis and start to improve my English!” – Cassady, 2024
To begin, please fill out one of the forms below
CURRENT PARTNERS: If you’d like a new conversation partner or have recently stopped seeing your current one, let us know! Contact us at conversationpartner@cmlcenter.org
Frequently Asked Questions
As a volunteer, you are committed and looking forward to helping international communities practice their English conversational skills.
You are excited to learn about a culture that is not your own.
You are excited to share your own culture and life experiences.
You will strive to be open-minded in exchange culture and conversation with different demographics!
Please do note that this program is about making a new friend and exchanging language and culture! It is not a class and it is not a way to meet someone with the intention of forming a romantic relationship.
We do ask that partners commit to meeting at least once a week. You and your partner can then decide how frequently you would like to meet!
We always encourage at least the first meeting to be in-person as there are many benefits from experiencing an interaction that way. However, this can be decided upon between you and your partner.
Anything you can think of that you two will enjoy! There are several events, programs, and fun places to visit all over Corvallis. A great way to connect is to talk about hobbies that you two share that would be fun to do together, such as hiking and board games!
Take a look through the CMLC’s calendar for any upcoming events!
Another good resource is Visit Corvallis‘s event page!
The CMLC will facilitate partnering you with a match and connect you two via email. After this, we do ask that partners remain in contact with each other.
If you are having trouble communicating with your partner, please do let us know.
Thank you for your support!