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Discussion

ESL Student

Hello Everybody!

I am just seeking for advice from other ESL students or from native speakers as well.

I've just started nursing school 2 weeks ago and I kind of worried that I may not do well in this program because english is not my native language. I never had any trouble in my pre-req. I am a straight A student and was an honor student for 2 years in my college. I don't have any issue with lectures or the exams. The only issue I have is the speaking. SOmetimes I think it's because of my anxiety. I am also a quiet and introverted person but once I get comfortable with someone, I will speak perfectly and smoothly, but when Im anxious or when I talk in front of many people I may stutter and my brain goes blank. I know that introvertedness and shyness is not an ESL issue but for me, the fear of making a mistake makes me anxious and I keep thinking about the perfect word to say so i end up saying nothing lol. many native speakers told me that my accent is not bad at all and it's not heavy, but Im just self conscious. Add that to the culture shock that I'm experiencing. It is honestly exhausting to deal with all of this. Any words of encouragment, or advice are appreciated. Sorry if this is too long but I needed to vent and I appreciate your responses and help. Thank you

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    You will be fine. You said that "many native speakers told me that my accent is not bad at all and it's not heavy, but Im just self conscious." Therefore, the people that know you better than we do have already told you that your accent is not bad. You also recognize that it's a "self conscious" problem. Let the fact that you are a straight A college honor student and the fact that you made into nursing school be your "proof" that you will be fine!!!!

    Also, do not worry about finding "the perfect word." Just say it the best way you can. If you say the wrong word and someone corrects you, it is not the end of the world. You just learned a new word. In time, your english vocabulary will increase. Besides, you are in nursing school. You ARE learning another "language" with all that medical terminology, anatomy, drug names, etc. You are going to be great!!

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    Practice in front of people, ask your classmates to let you read stuff to them and give you feedback. You said you do well with people you know, so it is just a matter of becoming comfortable with speaking at any time. Even just practice reading your textbooks aloud, so that you get used to the "professional language", medical terms, etc. If you say a word over and over, it gets easier.

    I'm not fluent in my second language, and can't imagine trying to study in it, let alone nursing. Good for you! I used to read children's books to the kids in an orphanage I volunteered at, and found the kids loved it, but if I got stuck on a word, turns out theolder ones were reading over my shoulder anyway and taught me how to pronounce stuff.

    Have you considered reading to senior citizens in a nursing home? Adult language and good practice.

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