You’re reading this because you’re interested in learning to speak Italian.
And everyone knows that the easiest way to learn a foreign language is to go to the country where it is spoken, and study there, right?
Wrong.
What may at first be seen as a fantastic opportunity, a holiday of a lifetime, does not always work out that way.
While most students have a wonderful time studying Italian in Italy, things do occasionally go wrong.
You definitely have to be the “right sort” of person to spend weeks or months doing something new in a strange place away from your family and friends, and actually enjoy yourself!
So if you’re tempted by the 20% discount on 2013 Italian courses offered by our sponsor school in Bologna, make sure studying in Italy doesn’t turn out to be something you’ll regret!
5 Reasons Why Studying In Italy May Be Wrong For You
- Sounds obvious, but not everyone enjoys being in a foreign country. Other than the language, lots of things are different, in a disturbing and frustrating way (especially in Italy!) It may quickly become clear that at home, wherever that may be, everything is far superior…
- Language courses abroad are taught in the language that you’re studying, not in your language. Why? Because it helps you learn (usually) and because schools can’t guarantee that all students in the class know English or another lingua franca. So the teacher, and the other students will speak to you in Italian. And will expect you to do the same. But what if you can’t say what you’d like to? You might find that frustrating, especially if you’re the chatty sort.
- Making new friends is great, but what if you hate your teacher, the people in your class, and the family you’re staying with? A long way away from your usual support networks, you may experience loneliness and stress.
- Or suppose you DO like the people around you, but aren’t good at making new friends? Out-going types get on fine, but if you’re shy, it could prevent you forming those vital relationships you’ll need to survive your study hoiday.
- And finally, don’t forget that intensive language courses can be, how shall we say, rather heavy. Four hours of classes each day, plus homework, is a fairly typical work load, and that’s a lot more classroom time than most adults are used to. Would you be happy sitting still each morning from Monday to Friday for weeks on end? And are you sure you wouldn’t just get BORED?
Over To You!
Had a “study-abroad” disaster? Or did you give it a try and have a wonderful time?
Leave a comment and share your experience with other OnlineItalianClub.com members!
P.S. The 20% OFF offer is only valid until Christmas Eve, so if you ARE thinking of risking your sanity with a language course in Italy in 2013, check out this link.
Dale Jones says
I have studied at 5 different language schools in Italy, and each one has been different but wonderful. The 4 hours of classes went by quickly for me, but sometimes there was a lot of homework. The teachers however were very understanding and helpful, and didn’t assign a lot when there were excursions or other activities. Of course I liked some teachers better than others, but I have not ever had one that I truly disliked. For me, the best part was being able to become a part of an Italian community. I had my own private apartment rather than staying with a family, so I got to know the people in the bakery, the deli, the corner store and the wine shop by name. The friends I made from all over the world are priceless, and we still keep in touch by Facebook and E-mail. My advice is to be flexible and open to new experiences and you will have a wonderful time.
Daniel says
Sounds like great advice, Dale! Thanks for sharing your experiences.