Just the process of learning Japanese brings me joy!

A conversation with Andreea, a Japanese course student at UvA Talen. 

Can you tell us something about yourself?

My name is Andreea and I am originally from Romania. I work currently as an HR professional in the NGO [Non-Governmental Organisation] sector. 

Why do you want to learn Japanese?

I want to learn Japanese because, first of all, just the process of learning it would bring me so much joy!  And the thought of traveling to Japan one day and being able to speak to natives in their own language excites me. 

Secondly, it is a good challenge that takes me out of my comfort zone - the family of the Latin languages. And I love a good challenge.

What course have you taken with UvA Talen?

I actually took an Italian course last year and I honestly can say that I learned a lot and also had fun! The teacher and the group were a good match together, she brought a lot of creativity to the exercises which made the classes interactive and enjoyable.

How do you combine work and language courses? What should all potential students know to help keep the balance of work and learning? 

I only took the evening courses before, and classes in the evening can be tiring after a long day of work. My advice would be to have a good energising break before the course starts- and a good meal, of course!

What’s your favourite word or expression you’ve learned in an UvA Talen course? 

Non mi va! Which is something like, I'm not in the mood. 

What is your end-goal with learning Japanese?

My end goal with learning Japanese is to start a career that involves foreign languages. I don't know yet what that may be, but in the meantime I am enjoying the process of learning the language and the joy it brings me. With Japanese, I also wish to get closer to the Japanese life concepts that I have adopted in my life, such as shinrin-yoku, ikigai, and wabi-sabi.

Want to learn Japanese like Andreea? 

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