Conversation Hour: Talk, Connect, Practice

About

Graduate school involves many conversations that no one really teaches you how to have: How do you explain your research to someone outside your field? Approach someone at a conference? Make professional small talk? Ask a supervisor for something you need?

Conversation Hour is designed to provide multilingual graduate students with an opportunity to practice conversational English in a supportive, low-stakes environment. Each monthly session focuses on a different academic or professional scenario, with opportunities to learn useful expressions, exchange strategies, and—most importantly—practice talking with others. Whether you want to feel more comfortable speaking English or simply meet and converse with other graduate students, you are welcome!

Session Topic: “Could I Ask You Something?”: Making Requests & Navigating Professional Conversations Practice asking for help or feedback, making requests, communicating with advisors and supervisors, saying no professionally, and handling potentially awkward conversations.