How did you learn English？

Learning English has been a transformative experience for me, shaping my personal and professional life in ways I never imagined. As someone who started with minimal knowledge of the language, my journey has been filled with challenges, discoveries, and milestones. This article will detail my journey to learning English, highlighting the strategies, resources, and experiences that contributed to my proficiency.

1. Initial Exposure and Motivation

My first exposure to English was in primary school, where English was a mandatory subject. However, my real motivation to learn the language came from a deep-seated desire to connect with the world beyond my native country. I was fascinated by English-language movies, music, and books, and I realized that understanding English would open up a wealth of cultural experiences and opportunities.

• Early Influences: Watching cartoons and movies in English with subtitles helped me associate spoken words with their written forms. This early exposure was crucial in developing my listening skills and understanding basic vocabulary and phrases.
• Inspiration: I was inspired by individuals in my community who spoke English fluently. Their ability to communicate effortlessly in English, access global information, and engage with diverse cultures motivated me to pursue learning the language seriously.

2. Formal Education and Self-study

Formal education provided the structure and foundational knowledge I needed, but self-study played a significant role in my progress. Here’s how I combined both:

• School Curriculum: My school curriculum focused on grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. While this provided a solid foundation, the emphasis was often more on passing exams than on practical communication skills.
• Self-study: Realizing the limitations of classroom learning, I took the initiative to study independently. I invested in English textbooks, grammar guides, and vocabulary books. I also made extensive use of the school library, borrowing English novels and magazines to improve my reading skills.

3. Building a Strong Foundation

To achieve fluency, I knew I needed a strong foundation in the core aspects of the language. Here’s how I focused on building this foundation:

• Grammar and Vocabulary: I dedicated time each day to studying grammar rules and expanding my vocabulary. Flashcards became my best friends, and I used apps like Anki to create digital flashcards for new words and phrases.
• Pronunciation Practice: Pronunciation was initially a challenge. I used online dictionaries with audio pronunciations and mimicked native speakers. Websites like Forvo, where native speakers pronounce words, were particularly helpful.
• Listening Exercises: I listened to English podcasts, songs, and news broadcasts daily. This not only improved my listening skills but also helped me get accustomed to different accents and speech patterns.

4. Immersion and Practice

Immersion was key to accelerating my learning. Here’s how I immersed myself in the English language:

• Engaging with Media: I watched English movies and TV shows without subtitles to challenge my listening comprehension. I also listened to English radio stations and podcasts during my daily commute.
• Reading Widely: I read a variety of English materials, from novels and short stories to newspapers and online articles. Reading not only improved my vocabulary but also helped me understand different writing styles and contexts.
• Writing Practice: To improve my writing skills, I started keeping a journal in English. I also participated in online forums and writing communities, where I could practice writing essays, articles, and short stories.

5. Language Exchange and Communication

Practical application of my knowledge was essential. Here’s how I practiced speaking and improved my communication skills:

• Language Exchange Programs: I joined language exchange programs where I could converse with native English speakers. Platforms like Tandem and HelloTalk connected me with language partners from around the world.
• Speaking Practice: I took every opportunity to speak English, whether with friends, teachers, or language partners. Practicing speaking in real-life situations built my confidence and fluency.
• Public Speaking and Presentations: Participating in school debates and presentations helped me practice speaking in front of an audience. This improved my public speaking skills and boosted my confidence.

6. Overcoming Challenges

Learning English was not without its challenges. Here’s how I overcame some common obstacles:

• Fear of Making Mistakes: Initially, I was afraid of making mistakes. However, I realized that making mistakes is a natural part of learning. I embraced my errors as learning opportunities and sought feedback to improve.
• Limited Time: Balancing language learning with other responsibilities was challenging. I created a structured study schedule and incorporated short, focused study sessions into my daily routine.
• Understanding Native Speakers: Understanding fast speech and different accents was difficult at first. I started with slower audio materials and gradually progressed to more natural, fast-paced speech. Repeated listening and shadowing techniques helped improve my comprehension.

7. Advanced Learning and Proficiency

As I progressed, I focused on achieving advanced proficiency. Here’s how I continued my learning journey:

• Advanced Courses: I enrolled in advanced English courses, both online and offline. Courses on platforms like Coursera and edX offered in-depth learning on complex grammar, writing, and speaking skills.
• Professional Use: I started using English in professional settings, such as writing emails, reports, and presentations. This practical application reinforced my learning and improved my professional communication skills.
• Standardized Tests: To benchmark my proficiency, I took standardized tests like TOEFL and IELTS. Preparing for these tests helped me focus on areas that needed improvement and provided a structured path to achieving fluency.

8. Cultural Immersion and Global Connections

Language learning is deeply connected to cultural understanding. Here’s how cultural immersion enriched my learning experience:

• Travel and Cultural Exchange: Traveling to English-speaking countries and participating in cultural exchange programs gave me firsthand experience of the language in its natural context. Interacting with native speakers and experiencing different cultures broadened my perspective.
• Consuming Diverse Content: I exposed myself to a wide range of English-language content, from classic literature and contemporary novels to documentaries and TED Talks. This helped me understand cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions.

9. Continuous Learning and Improvement

Language learning is a lifelong journey. Here’s how I continue to improve my English skills:

• Reading and Writing: I maintain a habit of reading books, articles, and academic papers in English. Writing regularly, whether for personal projects or professional work, keeps my skills sharp.
• Engaging with Media: I continue to watch movies, listen to podcasts, and follow news in English. This keeps me updated with new vocabulary, slang, and cultural references.
• Professional Development: I participate in workshops, webinars, and conferences conducted in English. This not only enhances my language skills but also contributes to my professional growth.

10. Reflection and Advice for Learners

Reflecting on my journey, I realize that learning English has been one of the most rewarding endeavors of my life. Here’s some advice for fellow language learners:

• Set Clear Goals: Having specific, measurable goals keeps you motivated and focused. Whether it’s passing a proficiency test, reading a novel, or conducting a presentation, clear goals provide direction.
• Be Consistent: Consistency is key to language learning. Make a study schedule that fits your routine and stick to it. Even short daily sessions can lead to significant progress over time.
• Embrace Mistakes: Don’t be afraid of making mistakes. They are an essential part of the learning process. Learn from them and use them as stepping stones to improvement.
• Practice Regularly: Regular practice is crucial. Engage in conversations, write essays, and listen to English media as often as possible. The more you practice, the more confident and proficient you’ll become.
• Stay Motivated: Find ways to keep your motivation high. Connect with other learners, celebrate your achievements, and remind yourself of the benefits of learning English.

Conclusion

My journey to learning English has been a blend of formal education, self-study, immersion, and continuous practice. Each step of the way, I encountered challenges, but with persistence and the right strategies, I overcame them and achieved proficiency.

Learning English has not only expanded my personal and professional horizons but also deepened my appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. It has been a journey of growth, connection, and endless learning.

For anyone embarking on their English learning journey, remember that persistence, consistency, and a positive attitude are your greatest allies. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and keep pushing forward. With dedication and effort, you too can achieve fluency and unlock the myriad opportunities that come with mastering the English language.