As you may or may not know, French is the official language of Senegal. Did I mention that I don't really speak French? I took it for three years in high school, but since I wasn't very good at it then, I can't imagine that it will all suddenly come flooding back to me and I will be praised from all sides about my fantastic lingual abilitites. So, it was with this fear of being unable to communicate in a new language, in a new land that led me to sign up for a French class at the French Institute Alliance Française. I start next week, and all I can hope for now, is that I am a much more motivated student than I was in high school. Check back with me in 6ish weeks to see if this blog will be written exclusively in French (If I were you, I wouldn't be holding my breath).
If only learning French were to be my only language hurdle. According to the material that I have been reading, only about 20% of the population of Senegal actually speaks/understands French. Other common local languages include; Balanta-Ganja, Hassaniyya, Jola-Fonyi, Mandinka, Mandjak, Mankanya, Noon, Pulaar, Seereer-Siin, Soninke and Wolof. I'm not sure that I'll be able to find a class in New York City that would allow me access to any of those particular languages. There is also the question of which local language I will need to familiarize myself with. That information will not be available to me until training starts in March.
Words of advice from anyone? Wolof flashcards? Should I start writing notes to myself exclusively in Pulaar? And RPCVs (Returned Peace Corps Volunteers) reading this? Tips would be greatly appreciated, just saying.
I hope to say that when I return in 2+ years that I am tri-lingual. When I do get back, will there be anyone to even practice my Mandinka with?
Well, first off, I'm excited about this blog and hoping you'll be able to keep it up once you're actually in Senegal. Second, I am up for practicing French with you (finally, you'll be motivated!). Although, Africans have a very different way of speaking French than Europeans and I will be most unhelpful. Third, I do think Natalie could give you some advice on languages. I bet more people in NYC speak them than you might guess. Third, motivation and few options for speaking one's native language are very important factors for learning a new one(s). You'll be fine, even if you might be shyer than usual for awhile. ~Jackie
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