I can’t quite believe that I've already spent a month studying at AEF! Time has flown by. By looking back, I've realised just how much of my daily life now revolves around speaking, listening to and thinking in Italian.
As a B2 student, my mornings always start the same way: grammar class from 9:00 to 10:30. Over the past month, these lessons have helped me tackle some of the trickier intricacies of Italian and build the confidence I need to express myself more naturally. In particular, this has been especially focused on preparing for our B2 end-of-month test, which is the final step before moving up to C1. The revision was a great opportunity to look back at everything we had covered throughout the month and see just how much progress we had made.
At 10:30, we have a well-earned break before conversation class starts at 11:00. The break is one of my favourite parts of the morning. Some of us go for a walk, while others go next door to Shake Café. Whether it's a cappuccino, a smoothie, or a pastry, it's a great chance to chat with classmates and take a break from thinking about grammar rules. Not to mention the special discount we can use there as AEF students!
From 11:00 to 12:30 we have our conversation classes. One thing I really enjoy is that my class includes students from B2, C1, and C2 levels. It creates a dynamic atmosphere where everyone can learn from each other and hear different ways of expressing ideas in Italian.
This week, everyone in my conversation class gave a short presentation about something they enjoy or are passionate about. The topics were incredibly varied, from Japanese food, to life studying architecture, to international choir competitions and even my own experience of being part of a French reading club at my home university. It was insightful to learn about everyone's interests, experiences and backgrounds all the while practising our spoken Italian. It is in moments like these where I am reminded that language learning isn't just about grammar and vocabulary - it's about communication, sharing experiences and connecting with people from different cultures.
Some good news is that my exam went well! I'll shortly be collecting my B2 certificate and moving up to the higher-level group next month. Learning a language can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you're faced with complex grammar, unfamiliar vocabulary, and the challenge of speaking every day. That being said, looking back at where I started and where I am now, it's incredibly rewarding to see the progress.
This achievement shows that anyone can learn a language with consistency, patience, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zone. Of course, it also wouldn't have been possible without the fantastic teaching and support at AEF. The teachers create such a positive environment where you're encouraged to participate and make mistakes, which makes a huge difference when learning a new language.
After one month at AEF, I've gained much more than just language skills. I've met people from around the world, learned about different cultures, challenged myself every day, and grown in confidence as an Italian speaker. As I prepare to join the next group, I'm excited to continue the journey and see what the next level has in store.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Favourite meal: Homemade pesto fusilli (I am getting there with my cooking!)
- Favourite place: Palazzo Pitti – Museo della Moda e del Costume
- New phrase learned: ‘Rosso di sera, bel tempo si spera’ (‘Red sky at night, sheperd’s delight’)
- What I am looking forward to: The July welcome aperitivo
Until next time,
Baci e abbracci!
Charlotte Young
