The Surprising Ease of Some People in Learning Languages
- Clarice Nunez
- 23 sept 2023
- 4 Min. de lectura
Actualizado: 12 oct 2023
A Conversation With Polyglot Dr. Andy Mencia
By Clarice Nunez
Learning languages has always been a challenge for many people, but for some it seems like a natural talent. These individuals, known as “polyglots” or “natural polyglots,” have an extraordinary ability to learn and master multiple languages with ease.
Recent neuroscience studies show that brain plasticity plays a crucial role in language learning. This means that the brain has the ability to reorganize its neural connections to accommodate new information, such as vocabulary and grammar of a foreign language. People who have greater brain plasticity may be better suited to learning languages. This may be the result of genetic factors or a childhood environment in which they were exposed to multiple languages.
Today we will learn the story of the polyglot Dr. Andy Mencia. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Hawaii, Mencia is a perfect example of how being exposed to a multilingual environment as a child can influence learning a new language. We know that a crucial factor that affects the ease of learning languages is the age at which we start learning. Some research indicates that children have a clear advantage when it comes to learning new languages, this is because their brains are still developing and highly adaptable.
When I arrived at the coffee we agreed to, Dr. Andy was already waiting for me. I didn't know him personally, I knew of his extensive resume not only in medicine, but also in Taekwondo and so many other things he did. When I sat down at the table, I found an extremely kind, humble and easy-laughing man. We began our conversation in a relaxed manner, at first we talked about comforts.
Even in our casual conversation, I realized that, in addition to genetics and many other factors that permeate and stimulate the mind of a polyglot, the big difference in learning is motivation. We were talking about motivation and he told me:
You know? My greatest motivation and interest in new languages was to get closer to native speakers. Over the years I have visited dozens of countries, most of them sharing the teachings of Taekwondo and speaking at least a few words of the local language made a difference, for me it is also a sign of respect towards those people.
After listening to it, I observed that actually one of the most important strategies is to find motivation and passion for the language you are learning. This makes the learning process more natural and fun. Yes, as in the case of Mencia, growing up in a multicultural environment or being exposed to several languages from a young age can facilitate learning, but it is of no use if you are not motivated and, for our interviewee, the social cause is useful. as his greatest motivation.
We continued our conversation and I asked him if he could share a little about his approach to learning a new language and what his secrets were. At this point in the conversation we already knew that Dr. Andy Mencia, in addition to having a genetic predisposition, had grown up in a favorable environment and had noble motivations, that is, he had in him the main factors that, according to scientists, help in the construction of a polyglot mind. But after all, what was your learning secret? Could an adult learn a new language like him?
Mencia, with his medical knowledge, explained to me that it is actually more difficult to learn a new language as an adult, however, neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and change throughout life, allows us to learn new languages, although It can be a more challenging process. According to him, the key is motivation and constant practice.
I asked him if he had any advice for, like me, an adult who wants to explore the world of languages. It was then when he, with a smile on his face, told me:
So, learning languages isn't always easy and each language presents its own unique challenges. Some languages have complex grammars, while others have completely different writing systems. The important thing is not to get discouraged by obstacles and keep practicing.
Changing the subject a bit and, taking advantage of not only his multidisciplinary knowledge, but also the fact that he has already visited several countries, I asked him how he thinks multilingualism can be beneficial in our globalized society.
Mencia responded the following:
Multilingualism plays a crucial role in our globalized society. Not only does it facilitate communication between people of different cultures, it also opens doors to professional opportunities and enriches our understanding of the world. The ability to communicate in different languages allows people to explore new horizons, better understand cultural diversity and contribute to a more inclusive world.
The ease of some people in learning languages is a fascinating phenomenon that can be attributed to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, environment, motivation, and learning techniques. We should celebrate and encourage those who possess this unique talent and inspire others to continue learning languages as a valuable skill in modern life. So I asked our interviewee if he would like to say anything else to finish the conversation, he smiled and said:
I hope our conversation inspires others to venture into the world of languages and discover how enriching this experience can be.
As a language enthusiast, I also hope that this interview encourages you to venture into the world of languages, dear reader, after all, language is the key to understanding and connecting with the world around us.
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