Face-to-face English Clinics are held on campus at Daegu University. By the way, did you know that you can get help at the English clinic from professors who are native speakers not only for your writing assignments but also for practicing speaking in English? I interviewed the professor who is managing the English clinics and was involved with creating them to hear his thoughts on the clinics and to get more information about them.

<Interviewer> L.L.F reporter, You-Jin Kim

<Interviewee> Patrick Travers [Daegu University Professor]

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Q1. Why did Daegu University decide to create the English clinics?

A1. We decided to offer language clinics to provide students with more opportunities to practice speaking. Learning to speak a language effectively requires a lot of practice. We recognized that our students have limited chances to practice speaking with native speakers outside of class time.

The clinics are there to help students get additional practice using English for authentic communication. In addition, it provides ample room for cultural exchange between students and our international faculty.

Q2. Do you have any tip to students taking English clinic and striving to be good at English?

A2. Students should follow a few simple rules to get the most out of the clinics. First, be prepared to talk. If you have an assignment to complete from your teacher, make sure you have reviewed it before coming to the clinic. Have a good idea of what you want to talk about. Think about follow up questions you might want to ask to get more information.

Second, try to have fun. The clinics are meant to be a stress-free experience for students. Don't worry about making mistakes when you speak. Just focus on doing your best to get your ideas across.

Finally, use the time wisely. Make sure you are on time for your appointment. If there is nobody with an appointment after you, try to keep talking. Take advantage of the time you have to practice speaking!

Q3. Are there rewarding or hard moments while conducting English clinic?

A3. Clinics can be very rewarding. Personally, I love meeting students who lack confidence or are a bit shy when they come into the clinic. There is nothing better than seeing their face light up when they realize that they really can use English to share their ideas and opinions. On the other hand, it can be a struggle when students come to the clinic and make very little effort to talk.

Q4. Lastly, what would you like to say to Daegu University students regarding English clinic?

A4. The language clinics are a great way to get practice using English for real communication. Remember, you do not need to have an assignment from your professor to visit a clinic. Just make an appointment and show up with something you would like to talk about. If you have not visited a language clinic yet, what are you waiting for? Make an appointment today and start speaking!

Last semester, I had an appointment at the English clinic and spoke in English with a professor for free topics. It was so useful and such a fun opportunity for me, so I also recommend it to you. You can make an appointment through the TIGERS system at Daegu University (https://m.daegu.ac.kr/branch_point.html). If your schedule changes, you can also change the time of the appointment until 24:00 the day before the clinic.

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L.L.F editor-in-chief You-Jin Kim