Language Tables is a program to encourage language exchange outside of the classroom in a casual setting with new friends. The program meets on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, 12:30-2:00 pm, in the Colleges Nine and Ten dining hall, for participants to have conversation over food to learn, practice or teach a language of choice. There are tables designated to a variety of languages such as: Spanish, Mandarin, Irish, German, French, Japanese, Armenian, Cantonese, Portuguese and we are always looking for new languages to be featured. Participants have the option to sit at any table and interact with native speakers of that language as well as first timers who have interest in that specific language and learn simple phrases such as “Hello, how do you do?”  

This project was initiated from the desire to have an open, safe space for students to practice a language with their peers to improve their speaking abilities. The International Living Center and the Colleges Nine and Ten Activities Office teamed up to get native speakers of all languages on exchange here at UCSC along with students from California  in one room to participate in this unique language exchange. We were even able to offer a subsidized lunch voucher of $5.00 for those students who do not have a meal plan.  It has been such a growing success every session, with new faces and familiar ones each time. This is a great way to make new friends, try a new language or practice one you already know. Come by to the second one of the quarter Wednesday, January 22, at 12:30 pm!!