When I imagined learning a second language, I always expected that it would be French. But life often involves changes in plans, and so it turns out that my second language will be Danish.
I’ve known this for awhile, but now that I’m officially enrolled in language school, it’s real. It’s kind of like moving to Denmark, but not really moving to Denmark until my visa stamp was issued.
In return for my generous tax contributions, I’m entitled to three years of “free” Danish classes. I’ll have three intensive classes per week in a small group for the first two weeks, then move to a larger group twice a week. After 4-5 months, I’ll take (and hopefully pass) the module one exam, move up, and repeat for a total of 6 modules.
I’m excited to learn a new language, but I’m not looking forward to spending 5 hours a week in class then biking home after working all day. It’s not too bad now, but it will be a whole different story in the fall when it rains everyday, or in the winter when it’s bone chillingly cold, pitch black by 4PM, and often raining.
It will be nice to read my mail and not feel sheepish when I enter a shop and they greet me in Danish. I just wonder how long it will take until I don’t feel silly speaking it.
Have you learned a new language as an adult? I’d be grateful for any advice or tips you have to offer…
The Fredy Family says
Had 9 years of french as a child through high school and with no practice I have forgotten most of it. I have heard Rosetta Stone is a great tool for learning as an adult.
Good Luck!
Crystal says
I just saw your blog on a eds forum… Thanks for the vit c serum recipe!
I spent a week in Copenhagen in 2003 and asking for directions was one of my funniest memories. I discovered early on that most of the younger people speak English somewhat fluently but even then… It usually went something like this: Turn Right on Olskdgenhootforgen then left on Dgkraftenmaart, walk 30 meters and turn right on Krgustfvin. Riiiiight. ;)