About language learning

 I found it interesting how different people’s English knowledge at my university is. Some sound like they’re fluent, and some sound like my classmates at the beginning of high school. Or throughout high school, actually. Because I grew up in a country where education is not just not a priority of the government, they seem to be working on dismantling it as much as possible, so for most of those around me had not the option to learn English in school. So how did we do?
Well, differently. Majority did not learn English well enough so they could speak it confidently. For me, I really had to. I knew I was going to head out and continue my studies in the universal language. When I entered high school (at the age of 14), I had been studying English for 4 years, but struggled to understand even the different future and past tenses. Then on the very first day of school in September, my new teacher drew a line on the board, and explained the whole thing in about half an hour. What a wasted 4 years, right? So how good the teachers are matters a lot, but even with great teachers it takes time. When I realized that now I understand more than half of an average YouTube video, the world of content has opened up to me. Since then, I consume between 80 and 90 percent of my content in English, and that was definitely the biggest help to me. I was 17 years old when I read my first book in the original language, and it was a professional anatomy book. I was proud to understand it, and I kept on my habit of reading in English. Of course, it wasn’t the only reason, pirating e-books is easier in English also ;)
It hasn’t been that easy with German or Finnish, however. I haven’t been able to reach the level where I could understand about half of a video or book in either, yet. But I don’t give up and will start consuming content as soon as possible.
As a conclusion, my advice is to read and watch whatever you like – YouTube, movies, or series – in a language you’re trying to learn. This is a fun way to improve both grammar and vocabulary. And for speaking…. Just move abroad :) I’m kidding, but video content helps with that too, plus speaking with foreigners if it is possible.

Comments

  1. Snow28 April 2025 at 05:39

    Your story is really interesting and I think many people could learn much from it. I like how you mentioned the affect a good teacher can have on someone's learning, it really can play a huge part in it. But as you said, it's not only on the teachers to make you learn a language, a huge part is on yourself! I'm happy to hear how fast your english improved and how such a simple thing like YouTube was of help in it. I have had a very similar experience, pretty much all my conversational English skills were learned through the internet. I wish you the best of luck with Finnish and German, I'm sure you can conquer them, as you have done with English! :D

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ville29 April 2025 at 04:45

    Great post! Learning a new language can be difficult. Your joyrney really shows how much difference motivation, access to content, and a good teacher can make.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Someone29 April 2025 at 13:48

    Your story is both relatable and motivating! It’s a great reminder that real progress in learning languages often comes from consistent exposure and personal motivation, not just lessons.

    ReplyDelete
  4. A29 April 2025 at 14:31

    Good post, I like how you tell the story about your language learning journey! Good to hear that you have found some learning tips that help you on your journey.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Student29 April 2025 at 16:44

    This was a well written post! And I have to agree having good teachers really makes a big difference when learning a language.

    ReplyDelete
  6. 2025 Blog30 April 2025 at 00:06

    Your point about good teachers really hit home. Sometimes one clear explanation can make up for years of confusion. I’m sure your experience will motivate others to keep pushing forward, no matter where they’re starting from.

    ReplyDelete
  7. S30 April 2025 at 00:36

    Your sardonic approach to English education is quite refreshing to read, although a little bittersweet. I completely agree about the teachers playing a huge role in the students actually learning the language. I always believe that speaking is the best way to learn a language, and in the importance of engagement.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Tien Ung30 April 2025 at 13:00

    Your story is very interesting. It shows that you are also a very determined and strong person. Your story is very inspiring to me.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Sofia Matilda2 May 2025 at 00:31

    Great post and interesting points. It actually is very interesting how people at our uni has so different language skills. Your language learning journey is truly inspiring!

    ReplyDelete

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