Entry #1

   In previous times, it was thought that a child growing up in a bilingual home would cause him or her to have schizophrenia or split identities. Or even cause a stunt in their intellectual growth. However, times have changes. In the article, The Brain Benefits of Learning a Second Language, it describes how learning or knowing a second language can be beneficial to the brain in multiple ways. There is growth in intelligence, memory, and concentration. There has even been seen as to help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, and dementia. 

   My honest take from this article was I thought it to be interesting, and insightful. I had picked this article because I was genuinely curious, about what exactly goes on in the brain while we are learning a second language, or currently already know one. I knew that in one form or another, learning or knowing a second language is beneficial. But in what ways was it beneficial? Learning that it can help with memory, concentration, creativity, and listening skills. I found it interesting, and it made me reflect on myself and learning my second language. From my experience, I can confidently say I have noticed a difference in my listening skills. When listening to English music, I focus more on the words than I do that actual song; compared to when I listen to music that is not my first language, I find it easier and more comfortable to listen to. Overall, I thought the article to be interesting and insightful to me. It makes me happy to be learning a second language. At the same times having it come with many more benefits, than just being able to communicate in anther language.

Introduction

Hello everyone,

My name is Sarah Ciampi and this is my second year here at GCC. When I first came here I had the intentions of become a radiologist, a doctor who reads x-ray scans and gives a diagnosis. I thought I would take some core classes and continue on to GCU and then hopefully Midwestern University to accomplish my long life dream of becoming a doctor. However, things have taken a 360° degree turn for me. I no longer have a dream of becoming a doctor. The dream I am chasing after now, is of becoming a translator interpreter in Asian languages. I have high hopes of being able to study at International ChristianUniversity, located just 5,838 miles away from home in Tokyo, Japan. 

I have been study Japanese for a little under a year now, and I now have developed some awkward habits from it… More like a list of habits. I now have the habit of slightly bowing to people, when it’s saying thank you or excuse me/I’m sorry, I bow. I even sometimes respond in Japanese rather than English. Last but not least, my English has gotten worse with learning Japanese. All in all, I’m a friendly person with some pretty awkward habits due to learning a new language. Even so, I look forward to a good semester with everyone! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (pleased to meet you).