Language Coaches

American Sign Language (ASL)

Hollis

Hello! My name is Hollis and I am a junior studying theology and anthropology with a minor in ASL. I have taken ASL for about 6 years now and it is a big part of my life, and I love it so much! I have taken ASL 102, 103, 104, I have ta'd and I am hoping to do some independent study with Malinda, I also took several years of it in high school. I am happy to answer any questions whether it be about your homework, strategies for success in ASL, or any signs that you may not know but want to! If I know it, I will answer it! If you are interested in minoring in ASL or joining ASL Club I would love to chat with you and answer your questions. I am here to help and support you so please reach out! Even if you don't have a question but just want to practice signing, come chat! I hope to see you around!

Tuesdays:1pm-2pm

Wednesdays: 2:45pm- 4:45pm

Thursdays: 1pm-2pm

Arabic

Raza

salaam! My name is Raza and I am a senior studying Biology with a minor in Arabic Language & Culture at Loyola. I have been teaching the recitation and memorization of the holy Qur’an for several years, which has strengthened both my Arabic fluency and teaching experience. I love connecting with people, exploring different cultures, and sharing the beauty of the Arabic language. I look forward to practicing Arabic with you and supporting your learning journey. shukran!

Mondays: 10:30–11:30am
Tuesdays: 10:00 am–12:00 pm

Chinese

Standley

Hi everyone! I'm Standley, and I am a junior studying Political Science with minors in Chinese and Law & Politics. I took CHIN 251 last semester, coming with a wealth of experience in the language prior to coming to Loyola. I took AP Chinese in my sophomore year of high school and certified by the state to be officially bilingual. I am very excited to be the Chinese Language Coach for this semester and cannot waitto assist you in all things Chinese!

Mondays: 1:45pm-3:45pm
Fridays: 1:45pm-3:45pm

French

Batty

Coucou ! I’m Batty, and I’m currently majoring in Data Science. I was born in Chicago, but I spent much of my childhood and teenage years in Mali, West Africa. I first learned French when I was eight years old, and it has been an important part of my life ever since. I returned to Chicago after high school to continue my education, and I still visit Mali when I can, especially during vacations, which helps me stay connected to the language and culture.

As a French language coach, I’m excited to help you feel more comfortable and confident speaking French. Whether you’re just beginning to learn or simply want to practice and strengthen your French, I’m here to help you practice conversation, pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and listening. My goal is to create a welcoming, comfortable, and judgment-free space where you can ask questions, practice at your own pace, and enjoy learning and using French.

I’d love to meet you, hear about your French-learning goals, and help you feel more confident along the way. I hope to see you soon!

French Coaching Availability

Tuesdays: 12:30–1:00 PM & 2:30–4:00 PM
Thursdays: 12:30–1:00 PM & 2:30–4:00 PM

German

Corin

Hallo! My name is Corin Friese, and I am from Phoenix, Arizona. I am a Senior at Loyola. I am majoring in Theatre and minoring in German Studies. I am thrilled to be your German Language Coach this semester!

After graduating high school, I lived in Germany for one year. During my time in Germany, I lived in Bonn, Bavaria, and Freiburg, and I learned a whole lot of German! After my first year at Loyola, I returned to Germany, working at a restaurant in Schwerin for the summer. Most recently, I spent the summer working at Waldsee, a German language immersion camp in Minnesota.

I understand what it takes to learn German as a non-native speaker, and I would love to support you in your language journey. All language levels are welcome. No judgement, just language practice!

Please schedule a conversation with me on this LLRC Appointment Center

Mondays & Wednesdays: 9am-10am

Tuesdays & Thursdays: 12pm-1pm

Italian

Priscilla

"Ciao! I’m Priscilla, a senior majoring in Marketing and Finance. I was born and raised in Cuneo, a small town in Northern Italy, and moved to Chicago after high school to become a student-athlete at Loyola University Chicago. All my family and friends are still in Italy, so I try to go back as much as I can.

Over the years, I’ve learned that one of the best ways to improve in a language is to practice speaking with native speakers as much as possible. As your Italian Language Coach, I can help you with grammar, pronunciation, everyday expressions, vocabulary, and even travel recommendations for your next trip to Italy!

Whether you’re preparing to study abroad in Italy, planning a vacation, or simply interested in Italian culture, I’m here to help you develop stronger and more confident communication skills. Learning a new language can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. I hope to be a helpful resource along the way!

Monday: 5:30pm-7:00 pm, and Wednesdays: 3:00pm-5:30pm

LLRC Appointment Center.

Japanese

Mizuki

Konnichiwa! I’m Mizuki, a senior majoring in Data Science with a minor in Sport Management. I was born and raised in Tokyo, where I grew up speaking only Japanese for most of my life. As a language coach, I look forward to supporting you as you practice speaking, listening, and building confidence in your Japanese skills. I can help not only with grammar and vocabulary, but also with cultural nuances, expressions, and everyday communication. In addition, I enjoy sharing insights about Japanese traditions, pop culture, and the unique aspects of life in Tokyo. I am very excited to serve as the Japanese language coach, and I look forward to assisting you on your journey of learning Japanese!

LLRC Appointment Center.

My hours are:

Monday: 5:30-7:00pm

Wednesday: 5:30-7:00pm

Friday: 3:00-4:00pm

Polish

Maya

Cześć! I’m Maya, a junior majoring in Biology on the pre-optometry track with a minor in Polish Studies. I was born and raised in Chicago, but Polish was my first language and it has always been an important part of my life. I visit Poland every summer and love spending time exploring both the countryside and the cities, which helps me stay connected to the language and culture. When I'm there I enjoy my favorite activities such as hiking, traveling, and reading. As a language coach, I am happy to help with practicing grammar, conversation skills, and listening. My goal is to help you gain confidence speaking Polish and feel comfortable using the language in everyday situations. Whether you are just beginning to learn Polish or looking to strengthen your fluency, I’m excited to support you along the way. Feel free to stop by during my hours or schedule an appointment at the LLRC Appointment Center. I look forward to working with you!

Mondays: 9:30am-10:30am and 1:30pm-2:30pm

Wednesdays: 4:15pm-6:15pm

Russian

Spanish

Estefania

¡Hola! I’m Estefania, and I’m from Bogotá, Colombia. I’m a senior at Loyola, majoring in Global Studies and Political Science.

Growing up in Bogotá, Spanish has always been a central part of my life. It is not only the language I speak every day, but also a connection to my culture, family, and home.

I’m very excited to be your Spanish coach and to support you throughout your language-learning journey. Whether you are just beginning, preparing for an assignment or exam, practicing conversation, or looking to feel more confident speaking Spanish, I’m here to help in a welcoming and judgment-free space.

Spanish is much more than vocabulary and grammar. It is history, identity, expression, and connection. I hope to help you build your skills while making the language feel approachable, meaningful, and enjoyable. Please feel free to stop by during my coaching hours or schedule an appointment. I can’t wait to meet you!

Office Hours:

Wednesdays: 1pm-3pm

Fridays: 1pm-3pm

LLRC Appointment Center