“Sorry, what’d You Say?” When studying abroad, be prepared to ask this question-a lot. Additionally, get used to these: “Sorry, sir/ma’am, I don’t understand.” “Can you repeat that please?” “Huh?”
Three out of my four classes here in the Universidad de las Americas are completely in Spanish. The other day in my Marketing class, we were discussing the various concepts of marketing techniques. Mind you, this is an introduction class but is completely in Spanish. As my professor was explaining a concept, he turned and asked me a simple question concerning the topic. Well, if it had been in English, no problem. However, his rapid Spanish made it, well, extremely difficult for me.
Whenever this happens, my face turns red, palms become sweaty, my stomach becomes engulfed with queasiness and every knowledge of Spanish I ever learned becomes an instant case of amnesia. I normally stumble out some kind of Spanish, hoping it makes sense to my professor and hoping he never calls on me again. However, this time I decided to do things different. I asked him to repeat the question, “Que es la pregunta tambien?” My voice trembled at first and he didn’t understand me. So, I asked him again, “Que es la pregunta tambien?” He proceeded to ask the question again and granted my answer was not perfect, but I learned a very valuable lesson that day.
Whenever in another country, it is within your right to ask, “What is the question again?” “What did you say? I don’t understand” in addition to other questions that may arise. You are not stupid and never allow anyone to make you feel inferior. You are new to the culture and language. For heaven’s sake, be patient and respect yourself and expect nothing else from others. Never hesitant to look the person in the eye and ask them to repeat what they just said. Yes, you may feel shy but keep on asking until you understand properly-because it IS your right.
Concerning the constant mistakes I make with the language, well, I have to embrace them with class and charm. Every day I seem to become a stronger person because of this. Granted, my imperfections are many, but to feel inferior because of them, certainly not. It’s my inspiration to keep learning this beautiful language and exploring this beautiful culture…it’s all a glorious challenge.
With warmth,
Lydia
Despite challenges in the classroom, my friends are very patient with my Spanish-there are always opportunities to make mistakes and learn from them.
August 30, 2010 at 1:46 am
People are often nice, and I am sure with the help of people who speak Spanish well, you will one day speak it as if it was a native language 🙂 Good luck Lydia! I am sure you are doing great!
August 30, 2010 at 1:53 am
Good post!
August 30, 2010 at 10:20 am
Great post, Lydia! You’re completely right in what you’re saying 😀
Just a tip, though: the best way to ask a prof to repeat the question is: “Cual fue la pregunta?”
August 30, 2010 at 10:31 am
So true! Keep up la confianza, hermana! 🙂
August 30, 2010 at 10:46 am
Well said. That’s why I consider myself the ¨Borat ¨of México and I am here to spread humor as I butcher the language.
Someday I’ll have to tell you about my experience on my first trip here when I foolishly looked to la policia for help in Zinapecuaro. Upon entering the station where a half dozen officers with all their weaponry stared at me, even my English left.
August 30, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Lydia, this is incredible. You are such a brilliant writer!
Anyways, I hope you are understanding some of what you need to. I admire you so much for going there are trying it. It takes so much strength and courage! Good luck with everything! I can’t wait to hear stories! Love you very much! (something about amor. lol Im not doing as well in Spanish as you obviously are 🙂 )
August 30, 2010 at 5:53 pm
@Craig: Thanks Craig! Yeah, the people are extremely kind and patient….I just got to work on being patient with myself! 😉
@Luis: Gracias amigo!
September 1, 2010 at 12:00 am
Thanks hun! Yeah, it’s a glorious challenge for sure….I love you too and keep in touch!!
September 1, 2010 at 12:00 am
Hope we can visit soon Senor Redding!! I gotta hear this story…
September 1, 2010 at 12:01 am
Gracias guapa…nos vemos en jueves para la clase de yoga, no?
September 1, 2010 at 12:01 am
“Cual fue la pregunta”? Got it! Thank-you so much for the tips…I appreciate it!
September 1, 2010 at 11:43 am
well written lydia!