Why did you choose this course and language school?
I chose an Italian language course because I’ve always wanted to learn Italian. As well as speaking the language, I also wanted to learn more about the culture and Italian people which can only really be done by visiting the country. Rather than going to formal lessons I started to learn Italian by teaching myself. I made some progress and decided it was time to put my Italian to use. I looked into ways of studying Italian in Italy and enrolled on a course with MB Scambi Culturali in Padova.
In your opinion, what were the best elements of the course?
The best elements were the fact that my teacher was a native speaker and that she was able to tailor parts of the course to suit my needs. The good atmosphere and interesting course book made lessons very enjoyable. Also, MB staff were always willing to help with any requests I had before and during my stay.
Would you recommend this course to others?
I would certainly recommend this course to others, in particular to people who are interested in learning more about other countries and who are interested in the Italian language, culture and way of life.
What was it like staying with an Italian host family?
This was an experience I will never forget. For me, my host family was almost like my real family. They made me feel very welcome from the first day. When I first arrived they invited me to the first communion of a friend of theirs and, during my two weeks stay in Padova, I went with them to visit five different families (all friends or family of theirs). In my experience, Italians are very communicative and enjoy family life. They also make delicous dishes and excellent coffee!
What did you do in your spare time?
I spent a lot of afternoons visiting famous places in Padua, like Basilica del S.Antonio, Giotto fresco, Prato delle Valle and other interesting places/buildings. I also visited Venice and went to small towns, such as Camposampiero and Campodarsego. Being a teacher myself, I was interested in seeing an Italian school and so felt very fortunate when a member of my host family arranged for me to visit a secondary school and sit in on some lessons.
How would you sum up the experience of studying an Italian language course with MB Scambi Culturali?
This was a new experience for me and well worth it.
How has the course helped in the development of your career?
On a professional level learning foreign languages is very important for me – I am a tour guide and language teacher so I use foreign languages in my work.
What are your future plans?
I don’t know what the future will bring. I hope to find the right place to live, who knows - maybe it will be Italy? Visiting foreign countries makes me happy so I plan on doing this for sure! |
