In our everyday lives language is not thought about since we all speak English. Learning to speak and learning the native language is a normal process for children. However, for those who chose to learn a second language, it can be very challenging. People who are not knowledgeable of the language being spoken around them can have a difficult time learning and communicating with others. When people are placed outside their comfort zone, perhaps in a new environment, it becomes necessary to find a way to communicate. For example, foreign exchange students live for a year in a country where the people do not speak their language. When no one else speaks your language, there is a communication barrier that has to be dealt with. Foreign exchange students will have difficulty learning, comprehending, and speaking a new language in a new country.

            During my sophomore year in high school I was exposed to some of the problems associated with language barriers. A foreign exchange student, Jay, began attending our school. Jay was in the United States from Korea and spoke very little English. He seemed very unsure of his surroundings, like a dog when it is first brought home from the pet store. Often times Jay would get lost in the school, which to me seemed small, and he was often late to class. I noticed that most American students would not talk to the new student or help him find his classes when he would try to ask. Students would look at him, shake their heads with confusion, and walk away. They made no attempt to find a way to help him. The first day he was in my English class, I noticed him sitting alone, so I walked over and introduced myself. I was thinking he could use a friend. After my introduction I noticed a curious look on his face, a look of confusion as if he did not know what I had just said to him. Jay shook his head indicating to me that he did not know what our conversation was about. I wanted to explain myself; I just did not know how to do it effectively. As I began to say my name again more slowly, the teacher started the class and I took my seat. I imagined how it must feel to be in Jay’s situation. Attending a school where no one speaks your language must be very uncomfortable and a bit freighting.