How to Learn Finnish 2.0

7.11.2024 0 Like 0 kommenttia

In this guide, we share insights and tips from students Asja and Rong on their journey to mastering the Finnish language.

Learning Finnish can be a daunting task, but with the right motivation and resources, it’s definitely possible. In this guide, I share insights and tips from students Asja (@aasyalapteva) and Rong (@rrong.ci-z) on their journey to mastering the Finnish language. This was part of our exciting very first podcast episode. In my first ever blog post I wrote also of my personal tips to learn Finnish.

Starting the Journey

Asja’s Story

Asja began learning Finnish before moving to Finland by taking a short summer course. Although her initial motivation was practical, her interest grew as she interacted with multilingual colleagues. She found it easier to integrate into Finnish society by learning the language, which also helped her communicate better in daily life.

Rong’s Story

Rong’s journey started as an exchange student. Initially, she found Finnish intimidating due to its complex pronunciation and long words. However, once she decided to stay in Finland, she realized the importance of learning the language for her studies and daily interactions.

Motivation for Learning Finnish

Both Asja and Rong emphasize practical reasons for learning Finnish. For non-EU students, studying in Finnish can mean avoiding tuition fees. Additionally, knowing Finnish can help with job opportunities, integrating into society, and feeling more connected to the local culture.

Practical Tips for Learning Finnish

Courses and Resources

• Aalto Open University Online Course: Offers twice-weekly sessions that are convenient and interactive.
• Selkos Uutiset: A state-run news channel with simplified Finnish news.
• Opi Suomea Podcast: Created by a Kuva alumna, this podcast covers various topics, including arts and daily life.

Daily Practices

• Reading: Asja reads children’s books and news articles in Finnish to build vocabulary and comprehension.
• Anki App: Uses spaced repetition to help memorize vocabulary.
• Engage in Conversations: Both Asja and Rong recommend speaking Finnish in stores, with friends, and in daily interactions to build confidence and fluency.

Overcoming Challenges

Lack of Practice Partners

Finding native speakers to practice with can be challenging. Asja and Rong suggest making Finnish friends or finding language exchange partners to practice speaking.

Language Barriers

Switching to English can be tempting when facing difficulties. Staying disciplined and motivated is key to overcoming these barriers.

Limited Resources

While there are fewer resources for learning Finnish compared to languages like English, finding tailored content and courses can be very effective.

Setting Goals

Short-Term Goals

• Improve fluency and grasp of grammar.
• Increase vocabulary through regular practice and reading.

Long-Term Goals

• Achieve fluency to communicate effectively in professional settings.
• Use Finnish in job applications, grant applications, and daily life interactions.

Final Tips and Encouragement

Find Your Motivation

Understanding why you want to learn Finnish can keep you motivated. Whether it’s for academic reasons, integration, or personal growth, having a clear goal can make the journey easier.

Stay Disciplined

Consistency is key. Even small daily efforts, like learning a new word or reading an article, can make a significant difference over time.

Make It Enjoyable

Connect with Finnish culture through music, literature, and friendships. Enjoying the process will make learning more rewarding.

Conclusion

Learning Finnish is a challenging but rewarding journey. By finding your motivation, using the right resources, and staying disciplined, you can make significant progress. If you have any questions or need further tips, feel free to reach out.

Links to Resources

• Anki App
• Selkos Uutiset
• Opi Suomea Podcast

Enjoy your language learning journey, and good luck!