Serve

 
SOMA believes everyone has a unique part in the story of God so we’re always looking for volunteers and leaders to join our team.

If you would love to serve or volunteer, please send us an email at thesomacommunity@gmail.com

Needed

  • The next generation of world leaders are right in our backyard — studying in our universities.

    There are many new international students arriving at UT this semester. Of these students, a subset have not passed their English proficiency test. These students are not allowed to begin their degree studies until they pass the test, and they are enrolled as non-degree students in an on-campus English school, called the American Language Institute.

    One of their greatest needs is to make American friends with whom they can practice speaking English. We have helped to develop a program called Conversation Partners to do just that. We estimate that at least 70 students will sign up for a Conversation Partner!

    We are looking for Americans who would be willing to spend an hour a week for a one-semester commitment, helping a student practice speaking English. No teaching background is required.

    Those who are interested can apply using our online application (at the link below), and then they will be invited to attend one of three possible orientation meetings (also listed at the link below). Then, in late September, we will have a dessert gathering, where each American will be introduced to his or her students. At that point they can arrange any meeting time that works for their schedules.

    This is a fun and easy way to make a friend from another country. The students are very eager to make an American friend, so often this opportunity leads to life-long friendships.

    All the information, including a short video description and an online application are available at the website below. Just click on the Conversation Partner link to find it all.

    Also attached is a promotional flyer that can be downloaded and/or printed out.