So I finally finished my intensive course a few weeks ago (I forgot about this draft so now it is more like a month ha). It was hard, I was exhausted, and I was afraid I would not pass but I did it! I finished the class with a 2,3 it is not a 1,0 but I was extremely happy! During this class I had to give a 10 minute speech (okay so I only made about 5-7 minutes of that), we talked in only German, and I got to meet more students that were at my same "German level". I found this class more challenging and more enjoyable than the first class. Although, when it came to an end and it was time to sign up for the next semester of classes I decided to not continue to the next level class. Instead I chose to take a speaking class to help with my communication in the community and to help at work.
This course is only 2 hours a week one day a week. I have been attending this class for about three or four weeks now. I am enjoying it and it is relaxing. I am glad that I chose this course because of my added work load these past few months. I have found some downsides though. I haven't needed my German as much lately (funny right... I am living in Germany) I haven't been using it as much and I have been loosing some of it. I have started trying to add more and more in my daily life.. this should be easy right. BUT!!! Living in a university town I have to opportunity to speak English which was nice at first but now I am seeing it as a downfall.
I have also had some help from my colleges at work. It is helpful to me but I think they also get enjoyment out of it. They have started speaking only in German (Some speak English when it is important).
I am starting to enjoy learning a new language but it doesn't change the fact that it is difficult.
Please! If anyone has language tips let me know! I know it takes time but I want to start hitting it harder in learning and using this new language. what are your experiences in learning a new language?
I know at Gannon, we have language partners where international students are paired with a volunteer (student, faculty, staff) and they meet for an hour or so once a week and just chat. Sometimes, if they hit it off they go off campus so their conversations are more varied, or they even just meet somewhere on campus. This gives the student a chance to practice their English, and the other a chance to learn more about another culture.
ReplyDeleteCould you find someone there that would be willing to practice with you??