10 Ways to Learn A Foreign Language / French

People have often asked me how I've gotten so good at French; not just French but learning multiple foreign languages.
Today I decided to divulge my secrets to learning une langue étrangère !

1.  Immersion 🌎
The biggest suggestion I say is...study abroad !!!! This isn't always an option but most likely it is possible! Many schools and websites offer scholarships. You can also find universities that offer courses that you need toward your major be that business, science, classics and more ! I've studied abroad* 3 times and am the first to recommend it.
*You can check out my different study abroads on my blog by clicking through the archives on the right side of the page.

Now not everyone takes advantage of living in another country. By this, I mean, absorb the culture and try new things outside of your comfort zone. Culture is a HUGE part of a foreign language !

Try to make friends with the locals to practice ! Often we tend to be friends with the others in our program, which is great ! But not so great for practicing your language skills.
I recommend joining a club (such as a choir or sports team club) to meet people. You can always chat people up as well in cafes, parks, etc.
Stay safe but don't be afraid to even just ask a grammar question to a local ! You practice your language skills, learn something new and could make a new friend.

I attended a French play while studying in Paris in 2015. Check it out here !

2.  Classes
Another great alternative, if study abroad isn't an option, is to sign up for language classes. For French, many cities have l'alliance française which offer French courses often taught by French people, and they offer a variety of levels.
A big key is repetition; not only learning in class but practicing outside as well!

3.  French Movies, TV, Music, etc. 🎬 🎧
Start by listening to foreign shows/movies in the foreign language with English subtitles. Once you feel comfortable, switch to all French subtitles and listening.
Check out French YouTubers ! Again, this is not only about the language but learning about the culture !

Some popular French YouTubers:
- Squeezie
- Cyprien, Monsieur Dream
- Norman

Some of my favorite French movies:
- Amelie
- Intouchables
- Chez les Ch'tis (more advanced)

You can search popular French music on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube...there's endless possibilities ! :)
I listen to a variety but one of my absolute favorites is the Belgian artist, Stromae !

4.  Join International-based Clubs
If you're in university, there is probably an international student club, French Club, etc. that you can join! You will get to meet foreign students, practice your language skills, make friends, and learn about other cultures.
If your school doesn't, check with the international/study abroad office to see if they need help with student tours of campus. Often international students don't know anyone, so not only can you help them, but you most likely will be a new friend !

If you are not in school, you can look up local clubs in your city to meet up. Even l'alliance française holds events for all levels to attend. Check out the site MeetUp to search for clubs in your area.

Photo from event at Alliance française de Charlotte, afcharlotte.org

5.  Phone Apps 
There are a few applications that can help you learn a foreign language. I do really like Duolingo because they also give the microphone-speaking option, making it more interactive. I've used it to learn and practice Spanish and German.

6.  Rosetta Stone
Disclaimer: I haven't tried this yet ! 
This can be a pricier option, but I've heard nothing but GREAT reviews from Rosetta Stone users !

7.  Learn with a Friend 👭
Like any goal, if you lack a bit of motivation, learning a language with a friend can help keep you motivated ! It's a great way to practice your conversation as well.
Set a date; every Wednesday go get coffee☕️ and only speak in French !

8.  Read novels
If you love reading, check out your favorite classics in French or check out the foreign language section in your library, bookstore, for your kindle, etc. While you're reading, look up words you don't know or try to guess the meaning based on the context of the sentence.

9.  Get a tutor
Check with your school, search care.com, check out tutoring websites that can allow you to get tutoring in person or online even using video chat !

10.  Conversation Exchange
This website allows you to meet people who want to meet up to speak half in your native language and half in their native language. You can also chat online or be pen-pals. 📬

The key is to be dedicated, have a passion and make learning the language fun and useful !

A big tip I give is to always try even if you think your accent isn't good -- you get better over time so make mistakes, learn from them and learn a new language !

🇫🇷

Bisous💋
Lyndi


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