Conversational Spanish... how do improve and not forget?

Question

I studied abroad in Spain for a summer about 3 years ago. I also graduated from college with a minor in Spanish. Time has passed however, and I find I rarely have the chance to mingle or talk with Spanish-speaking people in order to practice. I don't want to forget everything, though! I can already tell that over the years my vocabulary and verb conjugation has gotten worse. What are the best methods for both improving my Spanish as well as maintaining the ability? Is it best to listen to Spanish radio? Watch Spanish TV? Read Spanish newspapers? I would get involved with some sort of classes or volunteer work if I could, but there's just not enough hours in the day for me to fit something like that in my life right now. I was hoping I could get some ideas here for how to improve and retain my Spanish fluency (or lack of it as of late!) Most of the books/textbooks I see out there are too basic to be of much benefit to me.

Update:

Should have read "how do you improve." Wish we could edit titles.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Listening to television and music and movies is GOOD, but it isn't PRACTICE SPEAKING.  It can definitely keep your ear up, but won't do a whole lot (some) for your speaking ability.

I talk to myself in Spanish, a lot.

Here's what you do.  Just move here.  At least half my neighbors are from Spanish speaking countries.  And the women don't generally get out to learn English all that well, so they make really good chatting friends.  Really, find ANY way to mix.  I like the idea of using Skype, or something like that...there are voice programs to use on your computer.

Find a club, or start one.  I meet every Sunday evening at a café where we sit around and speak Spanish, or at the very least, discuss Spanish topics.  

Whatever you need to do.

I became absolutely LOST after having lived in Spain a full year, and studied the language for twelve years, with a Major in it.  Ten years after I graduated, it was almost completely gone.  However, a couple of classes, and a little contact with Spanish speakers, and it came back pretty quickly. 

Try taking an advanced language class at the local community college.  You will meet some other like minded people, and maybe that could be the core of a club for practice.

Hawaii Home · Answer

You can use Skype to call Spain or use a variety of calling cards. I like the Sapphire Cards, I call China, Europe and Russia a lot.
There are Spanish speaking people where you live, you just have to talk to them. Ask around.

http://riveroffers.com/?cogid=almost&refid=

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Conversational Spanish... how do improve and not forget?

2 Answers