I’m aware that learning a language does not happen fast, but now I’m sure I won’t feel discouraged again.

– Alessandra Schon, Brazil

Alesssandra was exposed to English in her native country of Brazil, but she definitely needed the help of the East Central College ELA program to help her be confident with the language.

Portuguese has some English influences; every once in a while, I used to come across an English word in Brazil.  Also, I have learned not to like dubbed movies, so I was constantly in touch with the English language through movies and television series.  That is most likely the main reason I thought the communication would not be difficult when I moved to the United States.  I was certainly wrong.

    When I arrived at Rolla and needed my English skills, I felt stuck.  I could not understand everything that people were saying because people speak too fast. I could not speak because I felt shy, and I was afraid that I would make some grammar mistakes or even mispronounce words.  I wished I could work; however, I felt insecure regarding my English skills, so I preferred just to study English.

     At home, I spent the first three months studying.  After that time, I felt that my listening and reading skills were improving, but still, when I had to speak, nothing would come out of my mouth.  Frustrated is what I felt like.  I hoped to be better at speaking as well, so maybe, I was not trying hard enough.

     After a quiet search on the Internet, I found out about the East Central College English classes.  Honestly, that was the opportunity that I needed to improve my English skills and make some friends.  After one month of attending the English classes, I already felt more comfortable speaking.  I still have a lot to improve to be more confident and speak English fluently. I’m aware that learning a language does not happen fast, but now I’m sure I won’t feel discouraged again.