Language Learners' Lounge Series

Where Can World Languages Take You?

Spring 2026 Language Learners’ Lounge

Presenters:

  • Dr. Valentyna Filimonova, Content Strategist at Microsoft and IU alumna (M.A. ’14, Linguistics/Hispanic Linguistics; PhD ’20, Linguistics/Hispanic Linguistics)
  • Violet Peotter, an undergraduate student in East Asian Languages and Cultures and International Studies and FLAS recipient (Chinese)
  • Kathleen Silkes, an undergraduate student in Political Science and Russian Studies (Russian Flagship)
  • Nya Thornton, a graduate student in International Studies and FLAS recipient (Japanese)

About the Language Learners' Lounge Series

The Language Learners’ Lounge (LLL) is a series of informal student-focused events for those who are interested in language-related topics. Our goal is to provide language students at IU with a community where they can share experiences, resources, and tips for success, regardless of which language they are studying. Each semester we hold one LLL event, featuring presentations by and discussions with fellow students, language instructors, and alumni.  

We currently offer three reoccurring LLL event themes each year: 

  • Fall: "Tackling College Level Language Courses: Expectations and Strategies" – Tips to help first-year language learners adjust to and succeed in college-level introductory language courses. 
     
  • Spring: “Where Can World Languages Take You?” – Success stories from IU students and alumni whose language studies have inspired their academic and career paths. 
     
  • Summer: “Celebrating Multilingualism” – Helping motivated language  learners share tips and techniques for effective language learning, especially for those who are or want to become proficient in multiple languages. 

Past Events

Summer 2024 Event: "Celebrating Multilingualism”
Spring 2024 Event: "Where Can World Languages Take You?”
Fall 2023 Event: "Tackling College Level Language Courses: Expectations and Strategies”
Summer 2023 Event: "Celebrating Multilingualism"
Spring 2023 Event: “Where Can World Languages Take You?”  
Fall 2022 Event: "Tackling College Level Language Course Expectations and Strategies"

Language Learners' Lounge videos: 2020