Language Assistants

	Jack Isley Hey everyone! My name is Jack - I am a recent business graduate from the University of Florida. Some of the best memories I made there were meeting people from around the world and connecting with those of different backgrounds. In addition to my business degree, I am now pursuing a new career path at Santa Fe, with the goal of becoming a radiology tech and making a positive impact in healthcare. Some of my personal hobbies include watching movies, going to the gym, and going on outdoor adventures like kayaking. Above all else, I am passionate about languages and intercultural environments, so I am incredibly excited to work as a Language Assistant again this Summer and create a space where all people feel welcomed!
	Shawn Kapersaud Hey everyone! My name is Shawn Kapersaud and I am a recent graduate from UF majoring in international studies major with an area focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. The Summer 2026 semester is my fifth semester here as a language assistant and I participated in the conversation partner program for a few semesters prior. I am super excited to hear the different stories of new ELI students that come from around the world to study here! When I am not at the ELI, you can catch me learning other languages, reading a good book, or trying out new spots to eat. As an avid language learner myself, I know some of the struggles of trying to pick up a foreign language or culture. I also know the glow on someone’s face when you speak to them in their native language. These experiences have inspired me to be on the other side of that journey: I can’t wait to help others navigate the English language and American culture.
	Mathis Paulhiac Hello! I am a fourth-year student studying International Studies and Marketing. I have lived in Miami my entire life and am half French, half Colombian. Currently learning Portuguese and hoping to work in diplomacy after graduation. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling the world and playing sports. The place I want to visit the most next is Australia. Looking forward to learning about all of you and practicing English.
	Lexa Thompson Activities Assistant Hello! My name is Lexa, and I am a graduate student here at the University of Florida. I am so excited to meet with people from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. I have been with the ELI for three semesters, and each one has been an amazing experience! Outside of school and work, I like to read or watch movies, and sometimes go dancing. Also, a fun fact about me: I was born and raised here in Gainesville, so if you have any questions about the city I might be able to answer them! I can’t wait to meet you all!
	Elijah Zarsadias Conversation Partner Program Assistant Hey everyone! My name’s Elijah, and I just graduated from UF double-majoring in Linguistics and French and Francophone Studies with a minor in Spanish. This August, I will be starting my Ph.D. in Linguistics at UF. My research explores how people's lived experiences fundamentally shape their cognitive processes. I was born in Chicago, IL, but I’ve spent most of my life in Orlando, FL. Growing up speaking Spanish and English at home, I’ve witnessed firsthand how our environment shapes the way we perceive language and the world around us. This motivates my passion for research and teaching! I’ve been an LA for four semesters now and the CPP assistant for three, but, outside the classroom, I love karaoke (go-to: “And I am Telling You” from Dreamgirls), rock-climbing, and roller-skating. Hopefully I’ll see you around~!