Learning to speak Spanish. So, you can take a class. Read a book. Do your homework, blah, blah, blah. How do you really learn a language though? Having had a semester in Mexico under my belt, I’ve picked up a few methods that really speed up the learning process. Obviously classes are necessary but these tools have helped me to learn this beautiful language.

1. Listening to Music
Any kind of music that features Spanish is excellent. My friend Ryan suggest listening to reggaeton (artists such as Daddy Yankee) because of its rapid tempo which aids in understanding the high speed in which Spanish speakers talk. You don’t have to understand every word but little bits and pieces is perfect. Reggaeton is amazing!

2. YouTube
Again with the music deal, I love YouTube because you can look up lyrics of the songs and learn new words that way.

3. Reading News

In general, I’m trying to read the news more but especially in Spanish because of the vocabulary build-up. Every time, I read CNN.com in Spanish, I always learn a new word.

4. Facebook/MSN chat

Whatever kind of chat system you use, you can learn so much! Usually, I’m chatting with a Spanish-speaking friend from Mexico and this helps with writing skills. Oftentimes, I’ll ask them a grammar question or they will teach me a new word. It’s a great way to create friendships (perhaps because you’re at the safety of your computer.)

5. Get lunch, go to a salsa club, do SOMETHING!

Getting to know somebody who speaks Spanish via chat is a good start but go plan something. Whether it’s getting a coffee at Starbucks or making plans for a group to go to a salsa club, do it! It’s fun and chill and a great way to meet people. Plus, Mexicans are fun to hang out with and many are very patient with people learning Spanish.

6. Visit a Family

One of the most overwhelming and beautiful ways to learn a language. I’ve visited about 6 or 7 families here in Mexico and every visit involves some kind of frustration because families talk very, very fast but that’s where you really learn your Spanish. My Spanish really improved when I went to visit my ex-boyfriend’s family even though I had trouble understanding them. Either way, you’ll learn a lot and get the chance to experience a very personal and beautiful side of a culture especially in Mexico where family is everything.

7. Throw yourself in and just do it!

Yeah, follow the Nike slogan. Make mistakes and ask questions. Yeah, there’s going to be times that you mess up but the important thing is that you keep trying. Don’t give up on yourself even though a basic conversation is frustrating and you want to quit. Little by little, it’ll get better.

Learning a language is a hair-pulling but exciting experience. I don’t know how else to say it-it’s super cool and a beautiful experience. Good luck and don’t give up!