My Language Learning Odyssey

Learning a foreign language can open doors, windows, and entire worlds. As a seasoned traveler, I've embarked on the journey of learning several foreign languages, and each one has unveiled unique experiences and unexpected lessons. In this language learning odyssey, I'll take you through my trials, triumphs, and the methods I've encountered along the way. So, come along, and let's explore the world through language.

Spanish: The Foundation

It all began in high school, where I took on the challenge of learning Spanish. The Audiolingual Method laid the foundation—rigorous grammar, dialogues, and relentless repetition. This approach served me well for two years. Later, at the University of San Diego in Guadalajara, I expanded my horizons during a summer class. The courses here heavily emphasized reading and grammar. My enthusiasm waned during the final three classes, where Spanish literature left me uninspired. I opted for a change, shifting my major from Spanish to Geography in my senior year.

Spanish in Latin America

Fast forward two decades, and I found myself embracing a new language-learning adventure in Latin America. During my travels, I spent five months attending private language schools in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Oaxaca, Mexico, Cuzco, Peru, and Granada, Nicaragua. These schools presented an alternative to my high school experience, combining structural and reading methods. While not my preferred teaching approach, the exceptional teachers made it worthwhile.

French: A Fresh Start

French entered my life when I turned 46, following a brief high school encounter. I kicked off my studies with a semester at Cuesta College, a community college in California. The Language School of Canada in Montreal was my next destination. The courses at both institutions used the natural method or direct approach—little emphasis on grammar and extensive listening. Despite a strong start at Cuesta, my journey at LSC proved less enjoyable, with a rigid structure and inconsistent pacing.

French in Montreal

An eclectic approach came into play, and I experienced significant progress through fifty hours of one-on-one private tutoring in Montreal. Still, my ultimate French teacher was Claudette, my girlfriend. She supported my learning journey during our eight summers together. Claudette's clear communication and encouragement were instrumental. Today, I can speak French and Spanish at a similar level, but my Spanish reading an writing proficiency exceeds my French skills.

Russian: A Challenge from the East

The Cyrillic script marked the beginning of my Russian adventure, guided by a dedicated teacher at the University of California, Riverside. Basic Russian for Travelers instilled me with fundamental expressions, the Cyrillic alphabet, and everyday vocabulary. The subsequent ten-week course at Saint Petersburg State University involved classic Soviet-era teaching, primarily centered on grammar, syntax, and poetry.

The following six weeks featured a young teacher employing the eclectic method. This diverse approach, combined with living with a Russian family, offered an effective immersion. However, I can't help but admit that my ex-girlfriend and her family were my most influential Russian teachers. My pronunciation and communication improved significantly, despite never mastering the intricate grammar.

Italian: Parallels with French and Spanish

Italian, my next challenge, presented itself during three two-week classes in Salerno, Venice, and Siena. The eclectic approach, coupled with my familiarity with French and Spanish, expedited my learning. However, my experiences in Milan were somewhat different. I encountered a natural approach that left me feeling like a cog in a factory. As my Italian journey faded into the background, I realized the influence of familiar languages—Spanish and French—had accelerated my progress. I wish my teachers would have been able to teach Italian grammar based on the similarities and differences between Italian and Spanish and Frenc.

Other Languages: Brief Encounters

My language journey includes a glimpse of Portuguese in Lisbon, marred by the absence of practice. Despite an entrance exam mishap, I felt the lure of Brazilian Portuguese during my travels. A return trip and an intensive course in Brazil remain a lingering aspiration.

Arabic took me to Egypt as an international studies student. Despite early enthusiasm, the academic setting and my own obstinacy hindered my progress. To this day, I regret not adapting to the teaching methods. However, lessons learned, even through regret, are part of the journey.

Thai introduced me to the charming art of speaking and surprising locals. While grammar remained elusive, the language fascinated me with its unique expressions. In Mandarin, my journey ended before it began, facing the limitations of crowded classrooms.

Japanese: A Language of Connection

My exchange student experience in Japan didn't rely on language classes. Instead, communication became a creative exchange with my host family. We bridged our language gap through dictionaries, phrasebooks, and the universal language of gestures.

The Morals of the Story

Amid my language learning odyssey, valuable lessons emerged. Adaptability is key, and the direct approach can open doors to fluency. The classical and natural approaches, while valid in their own right, aren't for everyone.

A New Beginning

Regrets and missed opportunities won't define my language journey. Instead, they serve as reminders to adapt, embrace new approaches, and keep the language-learning fire burning. My desire to return to Brazil and learn Portuguese or to teach English in China remains undiminished.

Share Your Language Journey

What languages have you learned, and what valuable lessons did you discover along the way? Have any regrets shaped your language learning? I'd love to hear about your experiences. Share your stories and insights in the comments below.