While it has been very difficult to overcome the language
barrier, it has made me more empathetic and understanding towards those who do
not speak English in the United States. From ordering food, to finding
directions, to just everyday conversation my perspective of learning a second
language has altered completely. Before I came to the Czech Republic, I never
understood the importance of learning a second language. Nearly all of the
people I have met around Europe, speak at least two languages, if not more.
Coming here allowed me to realize just how beneficial it can be. My experience
in the Czech Republic has me thinking very hard about adding a Spanish minor to
my studies.
In the larger, touristy cities you can almost always find an
English speaker. However, here in the smaller, less touristy city of Olomouc it
is much less common to find someone who can speak English. Coming overseas, I
did not know a single word of Czech. I have picked up a few things here and
there from seeing the language so much, and have learned a lot in my Czech
Language class, however I still find myself pointing to things on the menu and
hoping for the best. It generally works out fine, but I do miss being able to
say “with no mayo,” etc. It has, however made me a much less picky eater.
The language barrier has also proved to be very difficult,
when I am lost and in need of directions. Even in the United States, being lost
is always a stressful situation. However back home there is always the option
of using a GPS or phone to navigate. Here, we unfortunately don’t have that
luxury. Asking for directions from a local is always risky. There is always the
chance that they misunderstood and have pointed you in the opposite direction.
Getting lost is never ideal, but from this I have learned to stay calm during
these stressful circumstances. I have been late and very close to missing
multiple events, yet eventually I always end up where I need to be.
Small talk with strangers is not something I thought I would
miss, but after a while you start to miss hearing friendly chat in a language
you understand. Being from the Midwest especially, it is very common to
politely say hello or wave to strangers, however, we learned very quickly from
some of the native Czechs that it is uncommon to ask how others are doing,
unless you really care.
Overall the language barrier has been difficult, but I
believe it has changed my perspective on many aspects for the better. I feel as
though I am getting the full study abroad experience by living in a city with
less tourists, and having to overcome the language barrier.
Thanks for reading,
Na schledenou!
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