Student Spotlight: Jody and Jeffrey

What inspired or motivated you to start learning French together?

Some of our favorite trips have been to French speaking places (e.g. Guadeloupe, Bretagne, Paris, Switzerland). Jeffrey has kept up his French skills somewhat since high school, so he usually carries the weight of making reservations, figuring out directions, etc. Jody has been studying Spanish on Duolingo for some time, mostly out of curiosity but also boning up to be of some use on trips to Spanish speaking countries. On a recent trip to France, though Jeffrey fell into conversation with a local in Bretagne and a taxi driver in Paris. The idea of being able to share an understanding of a language, rather than merely developing separate skill sets, suddenly seemed appealing. We could have the same skill and enjoy the same things more easily. Plus, learning together is fun.

What are some of the benefits of learning a language together?

Frankly, during COVID we're pretty limited in what adventures we can enjoy. Learning a language together is a little bit like traveling, and it's aspirational toward the days when we get to go places again. We have our sights set on a little inn in Bretagne that we've visited before...

How would you describe your couples course to a friend? Which 3 adjectives would you use?

The couples course is personal -- tailored to us; it's challenging to learn something new, but rewarding to think of using it abroad. It's a new and interesting way to spend time together, and during COVID we have so much time!