How To Study Abroad When You're Not Fluent In The Language

By Gretchen Kernbach on August 13, 2016

If you are not fluent in the native language of where you are studying abroad, you are not alone. However, don’t let your lack of knowledge discourage you from learning the foreign language while you are there.

Through small life changes and more interactions with locals you can up your bilingual game.

1. Prepare beforehand.

A little extra homework can pay off in the long run. Learn the basics before hopping on the plane to a foreign world.

But what qualifies as the basics? This pertains to asking where the bathroom is, introductions, please and thank you, and directions. Also, learn the address of where you will be staying in case you happen to get lost.

It would be best to know these phrases prior to studying abroad so you are prepared in the least bit. Better something than nothing.

pixabay.com

In addition, learn the local laws. Might as well read them in English and not try to guess them in the native language, putting you at risk for doing something stupid and ending up in jail across the world. Studying abroad from a jail cell probably is not as fun as staying with a host family.

2. Live with locals.

Most study abroad programs give you the option to live in a dorm or with a host family. Although it may be intimidating immersing in a whole new culture, choosing the host family will give you your best chance of learning the language.

According to britishcouncil.org, “This is especially effective if they don’t speak any English because if you need something, you’ll learn pretty quickly how to ask for it, and it’s a great way to practice speaking a language even when you don’t feel like it.”

When you live with a host family, you will learn the basics fairly quickly. Don’t be afraid to always ask for clarification when pronouncing a new phrase. Furthermore, you can ask them for helpful sayings you know you will need before classes or local trips.

3. Bring a bilingual dictionary, or download an app.

Just an FYI, books still do exist. But I bet there is an app that does the same thing as a translation dictionary. Either way, this option is an easy fix for those of you that are not fluent in the local language. However, try not to always rely on it for everything you want to say; the point is to learn, not just get by.

According to diversityabroad.com:

“Once you’re on the ground, getting around can be difficult. Not only do you not speak the language, but to then try and make sense of a map, traffic signals and schedules can compound culture shock. Thankfully, there are smart phone apps like iTranslate that can help you communicate more effectively, should you choose to rely on technology.”

4. Keep trying.

As I am sure we have all done, chances are the locals might chuckle a bit at your pronunciation of words. Do not let this discourage your hard work, just keep trying. The more you practice, the easier it gets. Learning a new language is hard for everyone at the beginning.

Make every initial interaction with someone a chance to try out what you have learned. Give it a few attempts before resorting to an app or just plain English. In addition, allow locals to correct you. After all, it is their first language so they know all the correct uses of phrases.

According to britishcouncil.org, “Learning a new language is hard, and it can feel like you go from confidently chatting one day to not being able to string a sentence together the next. If you’re having one of the latter, just think of how far you’ve come, and where you want to be when it’s time to go home.”

5. Embrace the culture.

You may be tempted to go visit McDonald’s for some homey food, but stay away. Visiting American-type restaurants and stores will lure you into using English. Instead, go to a residential place to eat that is not a chain restaurant. The food will most likely be of the country’s origin, as will the writing on the menu.

Remember to bring your dual-language dictionary because no one expects you to be able to read the whole menu without any help.

Image via express.co.uk

In addition, watch local TV shows. You may have no idea what is going on, but you have the ability to pick up on subtle things like greetings and insults. Try and stay away from Netflix and turn on an actual TV.

6. Ask questions.

Do not be afraid to ask for help. It is simple as that. If you are not sure about how to say something or you do not even know what the proper word is, just ask. But be polite. Do your best to not demand answers.

According to diversityabroad.com:

“Regardless of what you ultimately choose to do, know that your efforts will only make you stronger. Not only will you develop language skills you never had before, but you’ll be enhancing your patience, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving skills that can ultimately benefit you both personally and professionally.”

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