Radboud University
From learning Russian because you love Russian music to learning Spanish because it’s a good idea to speak multiple languages. Our course participants all have their own reasons for taking a language course. In this blog post, Riccardo and Eline explain why they enrolled in an In'to Languages course, and why they were so enthusiastic about learning further.
Riccardo Carraro decided to learn Spanish during his studies. “I started learning Spanish for fun, and because it is really similar to Italian, my native language,” he says. "I think it’s always good to know more than one more language. The discount I got as a Radboud University student, combined with the courses being offered at the university, made me choose a course at In'to Languages.”
One course led to another, and Riccardo has since completed four courses and achieved A2 level. What made him so eager to continue learning? “The teacher, Silvia. She is a really good teacher, and her classes are interesting. I like the fact that the focus lies more on practicing than on grammar. We spend most of the time in class talking. Silvia makes you feel safe; you don't have to be afraid of trying to speak Spanish, even if you think you’re making lots of mistakes. I now use Spanish when talking to Spanish people, but also as an alternative to English with other internationals.”
For Eline Huls, learning Russian was a long-cherished dream. It all began at age 14, when she discovered the Russian band Slot (Слот). “It didn't stop with that band. I started listening to more Russian-language music and also developed an interest in Russian literature and history. For me, understanding the language was the last missing puzzle piece.”
Although In'to's Russian language courses had long been bookmarked in her internet browser, it took a while before she actually took the plunge. “By chance, I found out that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the courses were being offered online. That was the final push I needed. In 2021, I started with Russian halfway to A1, and I have since completed nine courses. Those eight course weeks fly by so quickly, and it is very tempting to keep enrolling in the next course. You learn new things each time, which is something I really enjoy. Also because it gives me a better understanding of Russian culture and customs.”
What Eline liked most about the courses? Among other things, the fact that you learn with others: “I really like the fact that these are group courses. Everyone has their own reason for learning the language, but you’re still there with a common interest and goal. You can also learn a lot from other participants.” In addition, like Riccardo, Eline is enthusiastic about the teacher. “Natasha is friendly and gives everyone her full attention. She lovingly explains grammatical rules several more times if needed. She also frequently uses a personal anecdote to talk about Russian culture. Her enthusiasm is infectious. You can really see that she enjoys teaching Russian to other people, which makes her a really fun teacher!”
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