Frequently Asked Questions

I have previous experience learning a language. How do I know which level is right for me at Vecino Center?

Our courses are speaking-based (you’ll start speaking on night 1 of class!), so many students choose to start back at Level 1, even with prior experience. These students wish to engage in conversation practice before moving to more difficult grammatical concepts. That said, we encourage you to take our placement exam so that we can find a great course for you! Upon receiving and interpreting your results, we will email you with your course placement.

Spanish Placement Exam: https://forms.gle/XutVUGjqnWnBHNt38

French Placement Exam: https://forms.gle/dhRX48sxdtXWWgmx9

Italian Placement Exam: https://forms.gle/E44nSj11ofxFHNrf6

Do I need a textbook? Do I have to purchase any materials?

We do not teach out of a textbook! All of our curriculum is developed in-house and we provide a workbook for you that we have developed. The workbook corresponds directly with what you learn in class each day. The cost of the workbook and all other course materials materials is included in your course enrollment. 

How are your classes structured?

Our courses are a mix of grammar instruction and conversation/speaking practice. We maximize opportunities for students to speak, since we understand that that’s what adults want and need!

How many students will be in class?

Our courses are capped at 10 students.

I have to miss a week of class for a work trip. Is that okay?

We understand that adults have many responsibilities that pull them away from class. Most of our students have to miss one or two lessons of a course! This is not a problem at all. We will send you home with all of the materials that you need for self-study while you are away, and you are encouraged to chat with your instructor upon your return about what you missed and what questions you have about the material.

I’ve never heard of Vecino Center. Is it a franchise or is it owned by a bigger company?

No! In fact, Vecino Center is a small, locally-owned business that started right here in Winston-Salem. We opened our doors a little over a year and a half ago (October 2024) and we are proud to be able to serve the amazing folks in our city. All of our instructors live and thrive in the Triad while representing cultures and languages from around the world.