•  Can my friend and I do conversation partners as a pair?

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    Yes!  Two people can pair up with a non-native speaker, or even two non-native speakers for a total of a group of four.  More than this is difficult though because the larger the group gets, the more likely that at least one person will begin hanging back or dropping out of the conversation and then the benefits of the experience will be diminished.​  If you want to be considered a pair, please inform us on the registration form.

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•  What if we can't communicate at all and it's awkward?

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    Please consult our conversation guides on the website!  These are specifically designed to help you communicate.  You should model questions and answers by talking about your own life and experiences.  This is the best way for your partner to learn.  Don't be shy about repeating things multiple times.  Also, Smart Phones are very helpful in that you can not only use Google Translate if you get REALLY stuck, but your vast store of pictures in the phone will be great for conversations starters.  "Here is a picture of my brother.  His name is Luke.  He works as a teacher on an island off of Ireland.  Do you have a brother?  What does he do?  Where does he live?"  And so on.  

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•  Where should we meet?

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    Public places!  For many of our refugee neighbors, hospitality is so second nature that they will probably invite you over for dinner or tea quite soon.  However, please continue to meet in public places for the duration of the conversation partner program time commitment.  Gannon's Nash Library has many ideal areas and even a coffee shop inside!  Area coffee shops such as Ember and Forge are also ideal.  If you have developed a relationship that endures beyond the framework of the program, that's wonderful, and you should by all means function as you would in any friendship.

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•  How often should we meet?

    You should meet with your partner(s) at least five hours.  This can be over five months, one hour each.  Or it could be twice a month, for two or three months, as works for your schedule.

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•  What if I make an appointment with my conversation partner and he or she  does not come?

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  Please understand that even though many new residents of our country are eager to meet and get to know Americans to practice their English, they often have many challenges in addition to the language barrier.  Transportation is very hard for those who don't have cars; many have several children to manage; and unforeseen circumstances can cause unexpected difficulties.  Please be patient!  If your partner misses an appointment do not make negative assumptions!  Just let us know and we will check on them for you and let you know if any new issues have cropped up.  

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•  Who do I contact if I have a problem?

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     Dr Baugh!!!  If you have any questions or issues, please email Dr. Baugh immediately at Baugh006@gannon.edu

Or see the faculty webpage here:   http://www.gannon.edu/FacultyProfiles.aspx?profile=baugh006