Learning Italian after retirement: finally doing what I always wanted
I already knew CVO, but this is the first time I’m a student myself. I waited until after my career and started as soon as I retired. I travel to Italy often and would like to communicate better. It helps me dare to speak more during holidays. I always said I would do this someday.
In just two months, I’ve already learned a lot and especially gained more confidence in speaking. For an assignment, I introduced a well-known Italian (Laura Pausini): I introduced myself, told a story, and translated a text using small questions. At home, my husband always asks what I learned, and it’s fun to talk about it — even the homework makes us laugh. I was worried about a long evening class, but thanks to the good structure it goes really well. At the start, we learn new material and vocabulary linked to verbs, then we take a short break and continue with practical exercises. For example, after the break we stood in the hallway and had to ask three other learners something. It’s very interactive and hands-on. This helped me overcome my fear of speaking.
I already enrolled in the B module because I truly enjoy it. We have a great group: 19 people at the start.
What I appreciate about the teacher is the approach: very Italian, and she speaks a lot of Italian during the lessons. It feels natural. I also look after my grandchildren, and the combination works well.
To anyone hesitating, I would say: go for it! Just try it and experience it yourself.