Learning a new language can open doors to new cultural experiences and professional opportunity. Imran shares his experience learning Arabic at University for free.
My name is Imran and I am currently on my placement. In this blog, I’ll be telling you a bit about how I learned a new language for free and how my experience was learning Arabic.
Why I Wanted to Learn a New Language
My fascination with different cultures and languages has been a constant throughout my life. The allure of Arabic, with its rich history, beautiful script, and unique sounds, drew me in.
When the chance to study Arabic at the ´óÏó´«Ã½ presented itself during the second semester of my second year, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.
I recognised that learning a new language would not only be personally fulfilling but also a valuable asset in a globally connected world—particularly in the media and entertainment industry.
How I Applied
The application process to join the Arabic course was simple and convenient. The University offers a range of language courses, including Arabic, British Sign Language, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, and Spanish to all students through the Institution-Wide Language Program (IWLP). To apply, all I had to do was fill out an online form.
The process was straightforward, and within a few days, I received confirmation that I was enrolled and ready to start my language-learning journey.
How the Classes Went
The Arabic classes were outstanding and exceeded all my expectations. Our instructor’s passion for the language made each session engaging, and the small class size ensured that everyone received personalized attention. We quickly progressed from learning the alphabet to constructing sentences and holding basic conversations.
The university provided a wealth of resources to support our learning. From language labs and online tools to study groups and additional tutoring sessions, there were ample opportunities to practice and improve.
The structured curriculum guided us through the basics of pronunciation and grammar, building up to more complex language skills. By the end of the course, I could introduce myself, ask simple questions, and discuss daily routines — all in Arabic.
The Results
Completing the beginner Arabic course has been a rewarding achievement. I’m now able to construct basic sentences and hold mini-conversations in Arabic, which is something I couldn’t have imagined just a year ago.
Whether it’s ordering food, asking for directions, or introducing myself, I feel confident using my new language skills. This experience has not only deepened my cultural understanding but also added a valuable skill to my professional toolkit as I continue my placement.
Conclusion
Learning Arabic at the ´óÏó´«Ã½ has been one of the most enriching experiences of my academic journey. With dedication and the right resources, mastering a new language is an achievable goal.
The university offers a variety of language courses—Arabic, British Sign Language, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, and Spanish—so there’s something for everyone.
If you’re thinking about learning a new language, I highly recommend taking the leap. The skills you gain will open doors to new cultural experiences and professional opportunities, just as they have for me during my placement.
- Imran Karim, International Student Ambassador, BA Television Production