So much has it been said and written about the use of learning foreign languages that any new article on this topic seems useless from the very beginning. However, there are certain aspects which should always be taken into account when taking up a foreign language course.

Courses are welcome for those who want to study a foreign language because they realize they can't do without (at least) one foreign language in their daily lives, but even those who already speak one should remember that maintaining your command of a foreign language is as vital as learning it in the first place. It's a “use it or lose it” kind of thing.

Then, always keep in mind that learning your lessons, doing your homework and attending the courses is not enough to get in control of things. Find as many opportunities as you can to use and to show to yourself and  to others what you've learned. That may range from watching an American movie without paying attention to the subtitles to reading the English-language press online instead of the Romanian one or listening to BBC instead of Romantic FM when you drive to work.

Last  but not least, you should go beyond the immediate use or the basic incentive that brought you at this stage where you need to learn a foreign language. This study is ultimately about how to discover the other just as much as it is a question of self-discovery. Immerse yourself into the corresponding culture of that language, keep in touch with as many native speakers as you can,  try to see how entertaining it can become. It's not just a task you have to tick in order to get a promotion. Learning a new language is like a relapse into childhood when you acquire a new fresh vision upon things and life in general. A bit of extra poetry to our lives is always welcome!

• • • • Eduard Bucescu,

English & French trainer, A_BEST