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In the latest of our series of posts profiling MLC students who started learning a language as complete beginners and who are now in their final year, we meet Rebecca May, who is taking a BA in German and Hispanic Studies. In this short blog, Rebecca tells us about the challenges and successes of learning German from scratch.
Rebecca May
Starting German as an ab initio student was by no means easy, but by all means worth it! I have been very fortunate to have picked up German at Liverpool, where the lecturers have made my experience of learning German from scratch an enriching and exciting one. The modules comprised both language and culture, covering a wide scope of German literature, history and linguistics, which only heightened my passion for the language. My experience has been strongly enhanced by a supportive working environment, which has allowed me to get to know the other students taking ab initio German, who have become my close friends along the way. Together, we have established a successful team and work ethic in the face of learning a new language at degree level.
My year abroad was split between my German and Spanish studies. In Germany, I was fortunate to secure a job as a Boutique Coffee Specialist for the global company Nespresso in Berlin for 7 months. A full-time work placement was the best choice for me as it allowed me to immerse myself fully in the German-speaking environment and improve my language skills. Not only did I establish strong relations with my German colleagues, but also friendships with them for life. Seven of them are even coming to stay with me in Liverpool for the summer of my graduation. The year was a huge success and an experience of a lifetime, one that I feel privileged to have had. Thank you to all those at the University of Liverpool who made my time here studying languages an unforgettable one!