Language Guide

The Una Europa Language Café is a multicultural and multilingual programme that provides an opportunity for all UCD students to practice speaking German, Italian, Finnish, Polish, Dutch, Spanish, French, English or Irish in an informal setting. These languages are spoken at Una Europa partner universities across Europe. The programme aims to foster a relaxed and inclusive space for language and cultural exchange, allowing those involved to improve their language skills, make new friends and learn about different cultures.

The Language Cafés are led by the Language Guides, student volunteers (native or fluent C1 speakers) who facilitate conversations using non-formal education methods. The Language Guides are not required to prepare formal teaching materials but are expected to organise the session for it to run as smoothly as possible, integrating activities that engage learners.

All Language Guides will receive a confirmation of their volunteering activity in the form of a certificate or LinkedIn review. This volunteer activity is also eligible for the UCD Advantage Award.

The role involves the following:

• Encouraging natural, spontaneous and meaningful interactions among all learners;
• Supporting conversations and adapting them to different language levels to accommodate all learners;
• Helping learners build confidence to speak in a foreign language by facilitating different language activities;
• Creating a friendly, welcoming and relaxed environment where learners can practice a foreign language and meet new people;
• Helping learners explore new cultures and provide space for cross-cultural awareness and understanding.

The programme will take place from 30 March until 22 April 2026, Monday* - Wednesday at 17:30 in the UCD Global Lounge. The Language Café does not take place on weekends, public holidays, and lecture-free periods.

*Considering that Monday, 6 April 2026 is a bank holiday, the Language Guides allocated to Monday sessions will be asked to schedule a make-up session with their groups at a time suitable for them.

Approximately 1.5 hours per week for the duration of the programme.

The Language Guides are expected to facilitate one session per week for the duration of 60 minutes, while approximately 30 minutes should be dedicated to session preparation. The exact day will be agreed upon with the Language Guide based on their availability.

The Language Guides will have the opportunity to attend a training session to help them prepare for the role scheduled for Wednesday, 4 March, from 14:00 - 15:30 in the UCD Global Lounge.

They will also have access to the Language Guide Community on WhatsApp, where they will receive support from the coordinators throughout the programme and where they will be able to ask questions, talk about the challenges they encounter and share best practices with the other Language Guides.

This is an ideal opportunity for students who are interested in: 

• Sharing their language and culture with other students
• Deepening their connection with their native or second language
• Having an international experience at home or volunteering on exchange
• Getting to know new people and making new friends
• Developing intercultural and communication skills
• Gaining experience in group leadership

You can apply by submitting this (opens in a new window)application form by Wednesday, 4 February 2026, at 23:59.

If you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to discuss your application before submitting it, (opens in a new window)you can book a 1:1 meeting here.

For more information, please contact Tajana Mohnacki at(opens in a new window)tajana.mohnacki@ucd.ie.