Learn French faster while studying abroad with 8 quick tips
It's no secret that a classroom setting isn't enough to learn a language fluently. Sure, you'll be able to speak formally and everyone will think you're very polite, but in order to really immerse yourself in the learning process you're going to have to look outside the classroom. Here are a few tips to learn how the real people talk, what their jokes are, and how to stop sounding like an alien on a first contact mission.
8. Change your phone to French
Before you pack up and go, make sure you change your phone to French! You can change the language by going through your general settings, clicking on language and region, and then changing over to French. Then you'll have no problem texting other French students to hang out once you're there!
7. Start watching Netflix
One of the easiest and most passive ways to start learning French, before even entering the country, is to start watching and listening to media in the language! Do yourself a favor, switch your Netflix over to French, a great original film on Netflix is "Je ne suis pas un homme facile." If Netflix isn't your thing, you can always go online and find French news sources to listen to! TV5monde is a great source if you're looking for something to watch, or they have daily articles if you prefer to read!
6. La musique française
Listen to music in the language and learn the lyrics, even though liberties may be taken with the pronunciation for the sake of rhythm and rhyme. If you're looking for pop music, be sure to look up Indila's song, "Dernier Danse." If you're more into rock, "Coups et Blessures," by BB Brunes is great, and look up Maître Gîms if you enjoy rap!
5. Get involved
French students do not spend a lot of time on their campuses like we do at home, but dont worry! You can participate in university funded recreational activities and there are also a ton of festivals put on by the city, so you should definetly check those out! If you're going to be studying abroad in spring, then we highly recommend going to Carnaval.
4. Travel the country
Traveling is a great chance to put yourself out there, meet new people and hear different French accents! Navigating road signs, trying to make your train, and asking for directions can be frightening when there's a language barrier. However, it will ultimately be a huge confidence boost and you'll learn so much about yourself exploring all these new places. Whether it's just a day trip or longer, you'll be amazed by all the things you're capable of.
3. Go to the Cinéma
When going out with your new international friends, make a point to go see movies in the VF ( version Francis)! Even if you can't understand everything, you and your friends will enjoy peicing it together afterwards. The French love a good romance and thankfully the storyline does not differ so much between each one enough that you would not be able to enjoy the movie without perfect comprehension. The classic film Amelie is an adorable Parisian tale of awkward love and it's very French.
2. Start reading
2. Read in French! One of the best ways possible to pick up any language's grammar, even your own, is to read! Don't worry if you can't understand novels just yet. Pick up a children's book or a comic! Every French person knows the story of Le Petit Prince, and Les Adventures de Tintin so you'll have to catch up! When you feel ready, go into your local bookstore and talk to the vendeur or vendeuse about recommendations for your level.
1. Make it count
Last but not least, in order to learn French quickly, you truly have to put yourself out there and try new things. If you only focus on whats going on in class, then you won't have the chance to engage in the language and culture. You're probably only going to study abroad once so make it count!