Language Circles
One of the best ways to meet and get to know both Finns and other international students in Turku is to attended one of the Language Circle meetings (kieli-illat). There are plenty of Finnish and foreign students who are studying different languages and want to meet native speakers of that language. Language Circles are not only meant for those who want to meet others who are studying or speak the same language as they do, but for those who want to meet people from other cultures: what a better way to open the lines of communication! Language Circles do not necessarily always take place at the University but also at a local café or pub, so the atmosphere is relaxed and fun.
By following the links in the website of the Language Circles, you will find message boards with current events and meeting places. You can also find information on the noticeboard next to the International Office.
For information about the Language Centre click here.
Tandem Language Exchange
It is also possible to practice language skills with a so-called Tandem Partner, who is a native speaker of your target language and who, in turn, wants to practice your mother tongue. The pair can practice both langugages as they see fit, for example through studying grammar, discussing the latest news or simply chatting over a cup of coffee.
It is possible either to take the Language and Culture Tandem –course (2 credits) where one of the languages has to be Finnish or to find a Tandem Partner simply as a freetime activity without any academic objectives.
In both cases, please see the Tandem webpage of the Language Circle for further details.