Various questions arise when you start considering studying abroad and questioning one's English skills is very frequent. Am I able to express myself in English? Do I make myself understood? Am I capable of understanding a full course in English? Do I make too many grammar/spelling mistakes? Well, keep on reading to find out.
Some of you may only have a few hours of English per week in school and may think that is insufficient to develop your vocabulary and speaking flow. That is true, but once you go abroad, the given situation is pushing you to break your language borders. You will significantly improve your English once you are here.
We all know that the English language is essential to an international environment, even though it's not the most spoken language in the world. We use English on the internet, hear it on the radio, read it in books and it can be part of our lives more than we can imagine.
Am I able to express myself in English?
Of course, just like the song you are singing along with the radio or the quote you are sharing on Facebook.
English is the official spoken language in several countries and native language in many others. Because it's so widely spread, we can identify different accents and dialects in spoken English. This is not such a big deal because in writing it's the same. It is said that communication is the key to any problem.
But do I make myself understood?
I would definitely say yes. Speak your mind, give yourself the opportunity to make mistakes and use Google translate when needed.
Am I capable of understanding a full course in English?
Yes! Teachers try to explain the subjects as clear as possible. If you read your courses before class, this will help you identify the things that you struggle with and the teacher will be able to be more accurate on the explanation. Of course, all of us have encountered words in the course material that are only used in a specific sphere and we've tried to guess their meaning from its context or by translating it in our native language.
Do I make too many grammar/spelling errors?
Everyone makes mistakes from time to time. Maybe it's the late hour, the fatigue or just because you get distracted. If you're writing something in "Word" it will underline the wrong words with a red line for you. In case of an important paper you can use special programs to correct your mistakes or even ask a friend to read it for you.
Even if you get in here and you use English on a daily basis, your English classes are not over. You will have English classes weekly, where you'll be able to fill in the gaps in your writing and speaking. Besides that, the English classes are designed to prepare you to enter your field of specialization.
There are several ways to test your English level. It can either be via accredited tests such as Cambridge tests, TOEFL tests, IELTS tests or the simple online ones which you can do from your smart phone while sitting relaxed on your sofa. Many prospective students ask how you can test your English level, therefore one of my English teachers suggested this link: http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/test-your-english/
Don't underestimate your English and give this link a try.
And are you considering studying in the Netherlands or are you thinking about studying abroad? Then, your languages barrier shouldn't be a big problem: Dutch people love to talk in English. Read more about studying in the Netherlands on this page.
Till next time, wish you all the best!
