Before my kids were born, I dreamt of them growing up bilingual and fluent in English and Italian. To make this dream a reality, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Languages from the University of New England and dived deep into studying Italian. Unfortunately, life had other plans. My children’s learning disabilities made the bilingual dream impossible, but my love for the Italian language and culture remained undiminished.
Recently, I found a way to reignite that passion: Duolingo. This language-learning app has been a game-changer for me. It’s user-friendly, engaging, and, most importantly, flexible enough to fit into my busy life. With Duolingo, I can learn at my own pace, picking up where I left off whenever I have a spare moment.
One of the things I love most about Duolingo is its gamified approach. The app turns language learning into a fun and competitive experience. Each lesson is like a mini-game, with points, levels, and streaks to maintain. This approach keeps me motivated and makes the process feel less like studying and more like playing a game.
The bite-sized lessons are perfect for my schedule. Whether I have five minutes while waiting for a coffee or an hour before bed, I can always fit in some learning time. The app covers all the essentials—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—ensuring a well-rounded approach to language acquisition.
Duolingo’s community aspect is also a huge plus. It’s comforting to know I’m not alone in this journey. Seeing others’ progress and struggles makes the process feel more communal and less isolating.
What excites me most is the prospect of using my Italian skills in real-life situations. Whether it’s travelling to Italy someday, reading Italian literature in its original form, or simply conversing with native speakers, the possibilities are endless. Duolingo is not just a language learning tool; it’s a gateway to experiencing a rich and vibrant culture.
Returning to my Italian studies has been a deeply personal journey. It’s a way for me to connect with a part of myself that I had put on hold for many years. Duolingo has made this journey accessible and enjoyable, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to rediscover my love for the Italian language and culture.