My Language Learning Journey… Amr El Zaim
This is already the fourth part of the ‘My Language Learning Journey’ series. In this series, you can read about the personal experiences of language learners and mobility participants around the globe. They share their valuable advice and insights with the whole community.
In this article, you’ll meet Amr El Zaim, a student from Germany with Syrian roots. He will embark on his Erasmus+ exchange to Birmingham very soon. In the interview you’ll read today, Amr shares his perspective on language learning, the importance of cultural and social connection, and how he’s preparing for this exciting next chapter.
Let’s hear from Amr in his own words!
Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Amr El Zaim, and I’m 21 years old. My parents are from Syria, but I’ve lived in Wuppertal, Germany, for most of my life. I’m currently studying English and Educational Science, and my dream is to become a secondary school teacher.
I’ll be moving to Birmingham very soon for an Erasmus+ study exchange. I was initially going to do my exchange at a university in Ireland because that was the only option that there was time, but when I learnt there were a few exchange places left in Birmingham, I gladly jumped on that opportunity. I was offered a spot in Birmingham two months ago, and I have been preparing ever since.
What has your language learning journey been like so far?
I started learning English in primary school, but to be honest, the classes weren’t that great. I was in the fifth grade when I really started to improve my English through video games, media, and connecting with online friends. This experience led me to become one of the best English students in my class.
Pretty early on, I realised that learning English deeply could open up so many parts of life. For instance, English is the language of research in many academic fields, and many people around the world speak English. So no matter what you pursue, English knowledge is essential. So it’s more than just a language in my opinion, it’s truly a gateway to a ‘bigger life’.
Have you noticed any similarities between English and other languages you know?
Yes, absolutely. Especially with German, as there are many modern English words that sound similar to German words with the same meaning. An example is that ‘night’ in English is ‘Nacht’ in German.
An interesting fact that I learnt is that historically, English and German were even more alike. Before the Norman conquest of 1066, Old English had so many more similarities with German than modern-day English.
How do you currently practice English? Do you have any tips?
I love learning expressions and idioms. Each language offers unique ways of expressing things. Some expressions are even untranslatable to other languages, and it’s impossible to express exactly the same thing or feeling. For example, "Bon appétit" exists in both French and German, but not really in English in the same way. When something can’t be translated, languages often just borrow words or expressions from each other.
Do you have any tips for new language students?
To anyone learning a new language, I would say you have to immerse yourself in the language. You could watch movies, read simple and easy to understand books, and listen to music. I feel that music really helps with pronunciation skills. And of course, if you have the opportunity to speak with others, take it, as conversations are truly the best practice you can have.
As a final piece of advice, I would say that you shouldn’t try to imitate a perfect accent. The most important thing is being able to communicate, and it’s fine if you have a different accent.
Thank you for that brilliant advice! Now, I’d love to learn more about your upcoming Erasmus+ experience. What are your thoughts, struggles and expectations?
This will be my first long-term experience abroad, so it’s a big step for me. I’m a little bit nervous, and not seeing my friends for a few months will be difficult. But I’m also really excited, and I see this as a big step towards adulthood. I have faith that everything will work out, as I enjoy meeting new people and connecting with others.
Although one thing I might struggle with is laundry, as I go to the gym about five times a week and have to wash those gym clothes regularly. But I’m ready to make mistakes and learn from them. I’m approaching the experience with an open mindset.
What do you think life after your mobility experience will look like?
I’ll be in Birmingham from September until at least the end of December. When I return to Germany, I’ll need to get an internship in a school where I’ll work two days a week. For future teachers here, that’s part of the process. And then I have to take the exams around February or March. By April or May, I’m planning to move out and become more independent. It feels like a lot of changes will happen in the next year, but I know I’m ready for it.
Thank you for sharing so many valuable insights about language learning and your personal journey. Are there any final words of wisdom you’d like to share with fellow community members?
We shouldn’t be afraid of trying new things. Approaching people, even if it’s just someone at the grocery store, is valuable for both. I learnt that most people enjoy connecting if you make the first step. So, I believe this is a valuable skill to have and spread kindness this way.
Before, I used to be quite shy and afraid of bothering others. But I started to realise that if I wanted to connect, maybe I needed to be the one to make the first move. That has been a valuable life lesson that has helped me grow a lot.
My family isn’t very connected to our neighbours now, but when I lived in Syria between the ages of five and seven, things were different. There is more of a culture of talking to and being friends with your neighbours. In Germany, people live more independently. I’d like to bring some of that ‘Syrian’ sense of community into my life here.
A big thanks to Amr for sharing his story and insights! For me, it was super inspiring to hear how he’s embraced language learning and personal growth through his studies and international experience. I hope you have also taken some valuable insights from this interview and Amr’s journey. And if you would also like to be interviewed as a part of this series, you can let me know via this link or by writing a message in the comments below!
Until next time!
Marieke, OLS Community Manager - English