Even though I do not have a very prominent accent when speaking English, I am not as confident in the language as I would like to be. A part of my focus is on writing and expanding my vocabulary, so it becomes easier for me to use variations in the language.

By choosing language and literature, I also aim at getting a better understanding of other peoples reactions and responses. Not saying I want to be able to read minds, but I would like to become a better communicator. To understand other people and as an example, the best way to make them understand an idea, or how to challenge their perspectives, without offending them, definitely seems valuable and useful to me.

Another goal I have is to not just understand others perspectives, but also to improve my skill of being able to see things differently, without others underlining it for me.

Sometimes I find that other people and I see the same conversation very differently. I have tried before getting irritated and a little provoked by someone because they use their language in a different way than I do. Last time it happened was less than a week ago! Living in the boarding house with such a diverse group of people, and many of us do not have English as our first language, the meaning of words can quickly differ from person to person, and misunderstandings can easily happen. I hope the subject will help me see through the different use of English, and also get a better understanding of how our language(s) also is/are a part of our identity.

Course goals:

• Become more confident in English
• Getting a better understanding of others responses and reactions
• Hope to develop the skill to see and explore new perspectives
• Become a better communicator

To sum it up: there are definitely things I want to improve and explore in the English language and in general – I believe the subject English Language & Litterature is going to help me reach my goals and advance as a person.