When you think of learning a language in its destination country, your first thought may be that you will spend a fortune to improve your speaking skills. This creates limiting beliefs in your mindset that can prevent you from taking the first step. From my experience, at least in Bamberg, where I am pursuing my master's degree, it is not difficult to find good environments to practice German, importantly, at very low cost—either online or offline. Sound interesting? Let’s explore the options.
University Setting
At the university, I am provided with free intensive German classes twice per week. We have experienced professors who are passionate and patient in teaching new concepts, explaining things, and assigning tasks. You will work in groups with international classmates at similar levels, which means you won’t feel like you’re falling behind. Outside of class, you can also set up study groups with your classmates where you can review exercises from previous lessons, prepare for new lessons, and ask and answer questions together. If you feel that two sessions are not enough, immerse yourself in extracurricular activities organized by the university.
German-Speaking Clubs at the University
You can always find different activities to practice German within the university. At Bamberg University, for example, they offer a Tandem Language Programme, where each beginner student is matched with a German native student. They meet frequently for language and/or cultural discussions. Another way to practice the language is by participating in board games and movie nights at the university, which allow students at different levels to interact, speak, and make friends.
German-Speaking Clubs as Local Activities
Outside of academic environments, you can also search for German-speaking clubs. There are NGOs that create German-speaking environments for newcomers, refugees, or anyone who wants to improve their German. One of the quickest ways to enhance your language skills is to break the shyness, overcome your fear, and just start speaking. Don’t forget that there are many expats just like you who want to meet and have conversations in German. Key terms you can search for include “kostenloser deutschsprachiger Club,” meaning “free German-speaking club.”
Online Practice with Study Buddies or Fellow Expats
The world is connected through the internet. You can stay in Bamberg but meet expats in Berlin, have a study buddy in Bonn, or even connect with people outside of Germany. There are always programs available—both unofficially and officially—for you to sign up and practice. For instance, the Alumniportal Deutschland’s language tandem program matches you with another student who is also seeking a study buddy. You both can set goals and schedules, agree on which textbooks to use, and decide on methods to practice weekly (texts, audio messages, video calls, etc.). Additionally, websites such as Girl Gone International, Meetup, or Expat.info create communities for language exchange. For instance, people gather in an open weekly video call through Expat.info and have casual chats in small breakout groups at their skill level. Topics can range from hobbies, food, travel, to current affairs, and they strive to create a fully German-speaking environment.
Alumniportal Deutschland
Alumniportal Deutschland is a non-profit online social network of „Germany Alumni“ that is designed internationally for people who have studied, researched, worked or completed further training or a language course in Germany or at a German institution abroad.
Whether or not you’re busy with study programs at the university, don’t forget to look for activities both in and outside of academia to sharpen your German skills. Set clear goals, try out different methods to find what suits you best, and remember to learn with an open mind. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because mistakes are the best teachers. Now, research the activities, and share with us what you’ve joined and how you’ve improved. We can’t wait to hear from you!