He studied chemical process technology at Eindhoven University of Technology, works as a process engineer and is a real techie. Yet, he also sees the importance of human connections - and that is a lot easier if you speak the same language. At STE Languages, Nithin Tadikamalla (28) is working hard on his Dutch and has already made great strides in that area.

What motivated you to take a Dutch language course?

‘When you live in a new country, it is important to learn the language. It not only gives you a good feeling, but also helps you to make better contact with others. But let's be honest, learning Dutch is not easy. It takes a lot of time and concentration. Fortunately, it also gives positive energy. I can now talk to Dutch people much more easily.”

How did you end up in Eindhoven?

“I came here six years ago to study at Eindhoven University of Technology. It was quite difficult, especially in the beginning. It’s a real culture shock when you move from India to the Netherlands. For example, I had to get used to the fact that the shops here close at 6 p.m. and that you can buy a SIM card in the supermarket. I also found it very strange that I saw people having breakfast while riding their bikes. That was completely different from what I was used to.”

Why did you choose STE Languages?

“I first went to two other language schools, but STE immediately felt right. They really take the time to discover what you need and what you want to achieve. The intake was great, and I noticed that the training courses are well-coordinated with your own learning goals. That made it the best choice for me.”

What were your learning goals? What did you want to achieve with the language training?

“My main goal was to gain more self-belief in Dutch. In the beginning, I was very insecure, because I made a lot of mistakes. But by following the training and speaking the language every day, I have become better and better. Making mistakes is part of it. I have learned to accept that.”

How did you experience the training? What did you find difficult and what did you do well?

“The training is intensive. For a two-hour lesson, you often need four to five hours of homework. That is a lot, but you do make progress. I found vocabulary particularly difficult. Sometimes you feel that you have not yet fully mastered an assignment. Then I make an extra effort, practice again and review previously covered material. So, you have to work hard and do what is necessary.”

How did you find STE’s guidance and support?

“I followed one-on-one training. That is highly effective, and you get all the teacher’s attention. You can ask every conceivable question and that is very valuable. In addition, the lessons are tailored to what you need. I really liked that.”

Can you name a specific point when you noticed that the language training had an effect?

“When I started at STE two years ago, I only understood 20-30% of what was said at work. Now that has turned around. I understand 70-80% and only miss a small part. I notice the difference in everything from understanding certain words and jokes to following a conversation during a meeting. I now speak Dutch as much as possible, and not just at work.”

Do you have any tips for other internationals who want to learn Dutch?

“Yes, definitely. The most important tip: everyone is afraid of making mistakes, but that is exactly how you learn. It is always better to speak Dutch, without judgement. You have to practice and accept that making mistakes is part of it. And then a practical tip: watch a Dutch film with Dutch subtitles. Try to follow the story. If you come across a word that you do not know, pause the film, write it down and look it up. Collect the words that you do not know and make sure that you see them often. By coming across them repeatedly, you will not forget them. That way you make it simple and practical.”

Looking back on the course, what are the most important things you learned?

“I learned how to talk to people in Dutch. People appreciate it when you make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s not perfect. Social contacts have become much more fun because of this. For example, I remember a carnival celebration at STE. There I spoke to many people in Dutch, and I felt how language connects.”

Finally, what is your favorite Dutch word or expression?

“I have a few. One of them is ‘ik ben in de war’ (I am confused). To me, that sounds like you are fighting with yourself. Another fun expression is ‘van het kastje naar de muur’ (from cupboard to wall). It describes exactly how you can feel when you don’t know where to go. I also like words like ‘houtje-touwtje’ (wooden rope) because it rhymes so comically.”

Author: Joris van Dierendonck