Learning Journal #14

[Byongho Lee]

I am proud of the work I have done this semester because I originally thought it would be extremely difficult to continue my Czech since there is barely any Central European influence in Richmond. However, I managed to find new ways to practice my Czech and I think it was healthy for me as I transitioned back from being abroad. I think being in this class helped me appreciate my experience, but also made me excited to continue learning languages and culture. I think the most important thing when learning a new language is to have a deep passion and connection with the language and looking for ways to integrate it into your life. In some ways, it helps you grow a deeper connection with people and I hope to keep this mentality when continuing to learn independently. This semester, I managed to learn new vocabulary relevant to my newfound career aspirations of working with higher education.  Additionally, I was able to learn new words in the field of music and politics, as well as listen, read, and write in Czech. My cultural presentations helped me think about how my experiences helped me use the language today. When I was abroad, my Czech increase drastically everyday because I had to adapt to a new environment. I could see how good I was getting every time I ordered and understood something perfectly at a restaurant or could speak to someone at a bar. Being back in America, it is hard to see that progress because there is nobody on that journey with you. Also, I have tried my best to find stores and restaurants of Czech influence, but there seems to be none in Richmond which means I have to expand my search and hopefully wherever I live in the future will have that Czech culture. I think this semester has helped me satisfy the void that was inside of me when I left the Czech Republic and I am glad I got to learn more about the language and culture as well as learn more about Korean, Turkish, and Brazilian culture as well.