Language Assistants

	Aurora Lai Conversation Partner Program Assistant
	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. Some of my personal hobbies include watching movies, going to the gym, and going on outdoor adventures like kayaking or the beach! Above all else, I am passionate about languages and intercultural environments, so I am incredibly excited to work as a Language Assistant again this Fall and create a space where all feel welcome!
	Kemarah Thermidor Hi ELI fam! My name is Kemarah Thermidor, and I am a fourth-year student studying Psychology and Criminology on the pre-law track. This is also my fourth year as an ELI Language Assistant, and I am so so so excited for another great year! I speak Haitian Creole fluently and can hold a decent conversation in French and Spanish (test it out!). If you ever want to strike up a conversation with me, feel free to share your story, as I love learning about others. The ELI program is an amazing opportunity for me to share my love of words and language while meeting new people from various backgrounds. I can’t wait to get to know everyone better!
	Mathis Paulhiac Cultural Immersion Program Assistant Mathis Paulhiac is a graduate student at the University of Florida pursuing an M.A. in War, Statecraft, and Strategy. Mathis holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Studies and Economics from the University of Florida. He has been a Language Assistant at the English Language Institute for three years before taking on the role of Activities Assistant. Mathis speaks French, Spanish, and limited Portuguese. His two favorite travel destinations so far were Porto, Portugal and Busan, South Korea.
	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.
	Lexa Thompson 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 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~!