As a non-native English speaker, MIT graduate student Magdalena struggled to find her voice in academic and professional settings in English-speaking environments. Consumed by anxiety when forced to speak English, she found herself withdrawing from others and failing to ask questions of her professors. Over time, however, she challenged herself to view her English skills as an area of growth rather than a source of embarrassment.
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Magdalena
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There are ups and downs, but it’s getting better. And before I knew it, I’m going to be talking in English without getting nervous.
Magdalena
Challenge Areas: Transition to MIT
Overcoming Language Barriers
Magdalena
’s Strategies
Another Point of View
Listen to other students relating to this same struggle and what helped them cope.
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Read more: Annie
Overcoming Language Barriers
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Annie