One of the tips that often comes up in the context of how to make a trip or volunteer experience better is: learn the language. And this of course catches my English-teaching eye. First off, I concur that being fluent or a high-level speaker of the local language can be a huge benefit when volunteering. Even if you are not exactly doing work in the local language, it will enhance your ability to communicate with them in casual conversation (and obviously in dealing with practical matters like shopping and accommodation).

I would, however, urge people to consider a realistic view on what speaking a language fluently entails. No, it doesn’t mean you’re an expert, and speaking any of the language will make any trip abroad – for tourism, volunteering or some other purpose - more enjoyable…but it take serious time and experience to become a fluent speaker, and to use a language in a working capacity when your interlocutor really doesn’t speak your language at all. It’s not beyond the realm of possibility that someone who has studied a language in a class at home and passed all the tests will find it a challenge to communicate abroad.

Why must I be so negative? I think part of it is realism and not negativity, but have to admit that I see students – intelligent adults who excel in their own professional lives – struggle to learn English over a course of years, and this is a language that you really can’t escape. It is hard to find a country where you can’t find English language movies, television shows or music. If learning a language to a working level were that easy…what’s wrong with all of these people? The answer is – nothing’s wrong with them – learning a language takes time.

The Foreign Service Institute keeps a list of languages ranked by “difficulty to learn” for native English speakers – some are significantly easier than others. Things like individual aptitude for languages also play a role, as does prior language knowledge (Spanish speakers will not have a hard time understanding Italian; Bosnian speakers will not take as long to learn Slovak; in fact mastering one second language often makes even an unrelated third easier).

In any case, certainly make an effort to learn some of the language, but, especially if it is a new language for you, be aware that if you go expecting to carry out work in that language, your expectations may not be met. If the purported work you will be doing involves interacting with locals, it would be wise to investigate specifically what this involves and take into account your language ability before making a commitment. If you don’t feel you’ll be able to meet the demands of it, find a more appropriate position. A language course once you’re there may help, but it’s a lot to count on. The best bet, in my opinion, is to ensure that you have the right language ability for the position you choose.