Part of the requirements for my graduate program is that if one does not speak a foreign tongue, one must take an exams in a foreign language. If one cannot pass that exams, then one must take a language class. I do speak four languages, including English but the three are Ghanaian languages and I didn’t think they would be on the list of foreign languages of relevance.
Should I continue taking Chinese classes or should I take a dip into Latin, or should I just go back to good old French? Waiting for one of my classes from last semester to begin, I tuned into a conversation amongst a couple of my peers who were discussing how they wouldn’t have to take a language exams or class because of the other languages they spoke. I chimed in and told them how I could not decide what class to take, and I know for a fact that I will fail the language exams as I’ve forgotten everything I have learned in Chinese and French. Besides I am horrible at taking exams. I get extremely nervous. They were surprised because they knew of my Ghanaian origins. It was suggested that I talk to the program director to see if any of the languages I am already fluent in is recognized by the university.
When I got a chance to speak to the director, I made inquires and guess what, Twi (Akan), the language of the Ashanti people is on the list of recognized foreign languages by the college! Ha! There wasn’t Ga, or my language Krobo, but that’s alright. The Asantes are there and they have saved me a semester and some tuition. It looks like they have a right to their boasts after all. Medamoase!
