Learn the Italian Language Quickly
Italian, a romance language with a Latin base, is a beautiful language that evokes nostalgia for the Italian Renaissance and makes one think of Italy's beautiful culture and decadent food. If you're interested in learning the Italian language, the bad news is that you can't do it easily, but you can, by all means, do it quickly.
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Study abroad
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Studying abroad is probably the most effective means of learning a language quickly. Most Italian universities offer intensive language courses that will have you speaking Italian impressively after one semester of study. With programs in Milan, Rome, Florence, Venice and Pisa, this is by far the best option. Look at each program carefully (See Resource 1) and make sure the one you choose meets your criteria. You can also think about staying with an Italian host family, which will challenge you even further to brush learn the language. While you cannot arrange to stay with an Italian host family yourself, if you are interested in staying with a host family, make sure the program you choose has that option.
Language Immersion
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A language immersion class is another way to learn Italian without the need for travel. If you don't have the time or resources to spend a few months in Italy, try contacting your local university and see what it offers in the way of Italian immersion programs. The Penobscot School in Rockland, Maine, for example, offers intensive weekend Italian immersion. You can also try Concordia Language Villages in Bemidji, Minn., which offers programs for children, adults and the whole family (see Resource 3).
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Hire a Tutor
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Look up a tutor on craigslist.org, wyzant.com, or advertise via your local university's message board or newspaper saying you are seeking a tutor. You can also try calling your university's Italian department and ask if there are any native Italian speakers or advanced Italian students who might be willing to give lessons. Set up several appointments to begin learning the language right away. That way, the tutor can tailor lessons to your specific needs, strengths and weaknesses. Remember to do all of the homework assigned to you between lessons, as those exercises serve as reinforcement tools.
Computer Programs
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Many look to computer programs as quick ways for learning a language. Although the systems are not magical by any means, they will work if you put in effort on your end. Tell Me More Italian, Rosetta Stone and Instant Immersion Italian (all found online or at computer stores) are three critically acclaimed software programs. Use them alone or in conjunction with a tutor to achieve success.
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