Hazal
My birth in Chicago may have immersed me in the English language, but Turkish was, in fact, my first language. Although I began learning English upon starting kindergarten, my memories of acquiring both Turkish and English are somewhat hazy. It feels as though I have always had the ability to speak these languages fluently, which I believe is a result of being exposed to them at a very young age. I am grateful for this early introduction to bilingualism, as it laid a solid foundation for my language learning journey. Throughout my life, Turkish has been predominantly used within my family context, while English has been the primary language in academic settings. However, both languages have played an integral role in my social interactions. One distinct advantage of being bilingual is the ability to access and enjoy a wider range of material. I believe this exposure to diverse cultural and artistic expressions is one of the most rewarding aspects of learning languages, as it broadens horizons and opens doors to countless enriching experiences and opportunities.
During my high school years, I was presented with the requirement to choose a language class from a variety of options. Out of the seven available languages, I opted for French. I found the experience truly inspiring, as language learning was a completely new adventure for me. This newfound interest prompted me to further pursue French proficiency, leading me to minor in French and Francophone studies at UIC. The university's French program has provided me with an all-encompassing and stimulating curriculum, allowing me to not only improve my language skills but also gain deeper insights into French culture. I have particularly enjoyed exploring topics such as film, history, and law, all of which have captured my interest.
Being multilingual has not only expanded my linguistic abilities but also broadened my mindset. It has enabled me to appreciate and comprehend different viewpoints and cultures with greater ease. As a universal language, English has granted me access to a wealth of information, be it through subtitled films or translated academic papers. Furthermore, Turkish, which is deeply rooted in my cultural identity and family, has helped me forge strong connections and create cherished memories, contributing to my personality traits such as humor, honesty, and respect.
On the other hand, my journey with French has taught me resilience and perseverance. Unlike Turkish and English, which I acquired during childhood, learning French required patience and dedication as I faced challenges and frustrations along the way. This experience has ultimately rewarded me with the ability to travel to Paris and effectively communicate in French during my study abroad program.
As I look to the future, I am eager to continue expanding my linguistic horizons and embrace the opportunities that come with it. Currently, I am learning Spanish and considering Chinese due to their widespread use in healthcare settings and their cultural significance. To achieve proficiency in these languages, I plan to employ a mix of self-study, language courses, and immersive experiences.
As a pre-med student, the process of learning languages has equipped me with essential skills that extend beyond linguistic abilities. The dedication, memorization, and problem-solving skills required for language learning have directly translated to my academic pursuits in science. Furthermore, my proficiency in Turkish and French will allow me to connect with a diverse range of colleagues, patients, and communities, enhancing my professional relationships and fostering empathy. Additionally, these languages will enable me to embark on exciting travel adventures and enjoy a richer cultural understanding, both personally and professionally.