Thanks to Yen Nhi’s intention to self-study French, I became more motivated to complete this long-pending post about how I learned French before taking the proficiency test in this language.
First, you can visit this for more about why I started this arduous journey and how far I have come.
My journey began with a sense of urgency and determination, even though I was laid-back for a while. With the looming deadline of defending my thesis, achieving the B1 level of French proficiency became a non-negotiable goal. However, with a tight timetable and competing priorities, I knew there were alternatives to traditional classroom-based learning. Thus, I embarked on the path of self-study, armed with determination, resilience, and a plethora of online resources at my disposal.
Navigating the maze of online platforms, practice exams, and study materials became my daily routine. Websites such as francaisfacile.rfi.fr and delfdalf.fr became my virtual classrooms, providing me with the tools and resources to progress in my language-learning journey. Those are of extreme significance when it comes to test preparation materials.
Despite my crash course at ULIS in 2021, where I attempted to absorb as much French knowledge as possible, the reality was harsh—I hardly remembered anything =)) However, fueled by determination and a burning desire to succeed, I persevered, embracing each challenge as an opportunity for growth and learning.
The road to achieving a certified proficiency in French was fraught with obstacles—complex grammar rules, unfamiliar vocabulary, and the daunting task of mastering all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Yet, with each hurdle overcome, I gained confidence and momentum, inching closer to my ultimate goal.
As the deadline for defending my thesis loomed closer, the pressure intensified. Yet, amidst the chaos, I found solace in my progress and the invaluable lessons I learned. My journey of self-studying French not only equipped me with language skills but also instilled in me a sense of resilience, adaptability, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the French language.
For everyday exposure to the French language, I used Duolingo and its components most. This included the bite-sized lessons on the app and the Duolingo French podcast on Spotify. Each episode’s fascinating content catalyzes bridging the gap between foreign learners and French culture.
Besides, Collins Easy Learning French is another free and helpful platform where I can seek instruction on pronunciation, grammar, and lexical items in French.
For the physical book, Countdown to French by Gail Stein is an optimal choice for a chilling self-study experience.
One more thing to highlight is I created a track for inactive listening to French on Soundcloud, from which I hope (WISH, to be exact) listeners (including me) subconsciously listen to it whilst sleeping for a while and get a Delf B2 certificate later on =))))))))))
And this is my French music playlist on Spotify.
Looking back on my unconventional journey, I am reminded of the words of Alfred de Musset, who once said, “La vie est un sommeil, l’amour en est le rêve, et vous aurez vécu si vous avez aimé.” (Life is a sleep, love is the dream, and you will have lived if you have loved.) My journey of self-studying French may have been unconventional, but it has been filled with love—for the language, learning, and the journey itself.
Last but not least, Ms. Hue is also the French teacher who often gives me insightful advice and encouragement to continue my tiring journey *huhuuu merci beaucoup*
I almost forgot: if you want to have fun but still remain productive when learning French without trying, change the (sound) languages of your favorite dramas/shows on Netflix from their original ones (maybe Korean, English, etc.) into French like I frequently do. However, this tactic does not always work, as French is sometimes unavailable.
In brief, my journey of self-studying French has been a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s goals. Despite the challenges and setbacks, I have emerged more robust, confident, and with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of language and its endless possibilities.
Voilà ~~
Bonne chance et bon voyage linguistique à tous ceux qui osent rêver et poursuivre leurs aspirations avec courage et détermination!
Additional Resources:
brillbro 