Emerge tandem

EMERGE tandem: when language exchange fosters human connection between Brittany and GreeceAs part of the Language Tandems initiative of the European alliance EMERGE, two lecturer-researchers, Evangelia Kostenidou (Democritus University of Thrace, Greece) and Nathalie Dedessus Le Moustier (Université Bretagne Sud, Lorient), have taken part in a language exchange experience that goes far beyond language learning. Their meeting, which recently took place in person in Lorient during the UBS International Week, illustrates the richness of this programme, which is based on cooperation and cultural openness.

A language exchange driven by a desire to improve… and to connect

For Evangelia Kostenidou, an air pollution specialist and passionate polyglot, taking part in the language exchange was an opportunity to improve her spoken French.

“I understand the language well, but I needed to be more spontaneous and fluent,” she says. Having lived in the south of France for three years, this exchange was also a way for her to reconnect with a country she holds dear.

For her part, Nathalie Dedessus Le Moustier, a lecturer in the Department of Health, Safety and Environment at Université Bretagne Sud (UBS) and a researcher in occupational health law at Lab-LEX, saw this programme as an opportunity: The chance to practise English in an authentic setting.

“In law, opportunities for international exchange are more limited than in other disciplines. The language exchange is a practical way for me to improve my speaking skills whilst discovering the culture of a European colleague,” she explains.

Both participants also highlight the scheme’s value in fostering contacts that could, in the long term, facilitate European collaborations or joint projects.

A first meeting in Lorient marked by a friendly atmosphere

After around eight hours of online discussions, the face-to-face meeting confirmed the bond that had already developed between the two teachers.

Nathalie welcomed Evangelia to her department and showed her around the practical work rooms. The visit continued with a stroll through Lorient and Larmor-Plage, offering a glimpse of South Brittany.

The highlight of the visit: a warm dinner at Nathalie’s home, featuring Breton galettes and crêpes, accompanied by local specialities – biscuits, mackerel rillettes and salted caramel treats. A culinary experience particularly enjoyed by Evangelia.

“I found Lorient to be very peaceful and pleasant, and I loved the desserts!” she says, amused.

The evening, marked by personal conversations and plenty of sharing, strengthened their bond: “It felt like I was spending time with a long-standing friend,” says Nathalie.

An initiative that fosters a European spirit

Beyond the linguistic benefits, both participants emphasise the programme’s human dimension. The language exchange, they say, fosters a sense of belonging to a European community and facilitates encounters between different cultures and professional backgrounds.

Each week, they devote at least two hours to their exchange – one in French, one in English – and plan to continue well beyond the two months originally planned.

For Evangelia, it is “a valuable initiative for strengthening ties between members of the EMERGE alliance”.

For Nathalie, it is “an opportunity to engage with fellow European citizens and discover how our colleagues work internationally”.