I think that taking any time off from learning a language creates a huge set back, for example when I did not take German classes over winter break. Being consistent on a weekly, and daily, basis is the most important part of learning a language. This is why it is important for language learning to be engaging.

As a German minor with a Spanish background, I am already immersed in communities who are extremely passionate about language learning. I would first use these connections to provide Howie with a database of students and faculty who are already motivated, and then expand this to other communities. I think that a first step could be to integrate Howie into club meetings for those who are interesting in learning languages, those who are considering study abroad, and those who are already actively learning a new language within a department.