Improving my Chinese

I attended a Chinese language course some time ago. The teacher was excellent, very experienced in teaching the language. In fact, I did quite well, and was able to communicate. That was some years back. It is all gone now. Just like you said, learning an language needs the environment where it is spoken so that one can hear all the time.

Is there a Chinese community at your hometown? I am sure many would be very willing to exchange a dialog with you. May be there is a Chinese market where you can talk to the staff? Check out this site, I think it is quite useful for people learning the Chinese language. http://www.nciku.com/

Good luck! I have plenty of students trying to improve on their english speaking skills and I think it really takes a lot of time and effort. Some of my students are already frustrated about it but they always pursue..

Wow I so admire you learning chinese. I understand through reading about the language there there are several different kinds of chinese languages too. Do you live near a college? I used to go to internships at Wash U. in Missouri and there were always orientals there going to school. VERY SMART. I am sure if you can find a friend someone would be willing to help you out. I actually have made friends with a couple chinese that run chinese food shops. they might help you if you direct your question to them. they are such kind, genuine, loving people. Orientals are truly a culture I admire and respect. I also have been fascinated with their paper when it happened to catch my eye! Bless you and please let me know how you get on. I sincerely hope you find a friend to aid you! (I will be truly jealous!!!LOL)