Immersing yourself in a language, along with its accompanying culture, is one of the best ways to acquire it. In fact, many contend it’s the only way to complete master it. How you are able to get into a situation where you can immerse yourself is a whole other story entirely.
Naturally, being dropped into a foreign country is an immediate opportunity for immersion. Barring having a UFO kidnap you and throw you in the middle of a strange land (or being sent there through your work), though, you will likely have to approach the whole matter in a more deliberate manner.
If you’re willing to travel, there are many opportunities available. A few ones you can look at include:
- being an exchange student (assuming you’re still young enough to put in that much time in school)
- going on an extended vacation (provided you have to cash to fund it, of course)
- seeking foreign job placements (always a favorite for adventurous types)
Of course, you can also find immersion opportunities locally, which would be a great way to supplement your weekly language classes or language software lessons. You can get a job at a local organization for the source country of your target language (e.g. embassies or a group like the Alliance Francaise). One often overlooked opportunity is playing host to foreign guests (such as transients and backpackers), many of whom will only be too happy to indulge you in your learning activities.
Whichever way you decide to go, there are many option for a language learning immersion both abroad and in your backyard. Make sure to explore these options.