From A Banker To Language Liebhaber Over The Span Of Three Levels

Nine years ago Anuradha retired from her job as a banker at the State Bank of India and was very able to dedicate her free time to learning a new language. Eventually she completed three levels of German and joined our faculty of teachers. Here she talks to us about what motivated her language journey at IFLAC.

Anuradha’s German classmates and trainer, Photo courtesy Anuradha

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself

I am a retired banker who is now over 60. After graduating in the commerce stream, I worked for about 40 years at Bank of India, specialising in Foreign Exchange. I have always been very interested in literature, philosophy and in learning different languages. My hobbies are music, painting and trekking to places like the Valley of Flowers. I can never resist the call from mountains and oceans.

2.What motivated you to learn German?

In the pre-internet days having pen pals was my favourite hobby. And I used to have many pen-friends from around the world. My interest in German was sparked by a very close friend in Stamberg and my language journey started during my college days. Learning German allowed me access to the works of many great writers in the original language and fully experience the cultural ethos.

Buddenbrooks by Thomas Mann | © Clemcal/Flikr

3. Who are your favourite German authors and has learning German made it easier to understand their works?

In the knowledge of German has enabled me to savour the words of such great writers like Immanuel Kant, Hermann Hesse, Thomas Mann and Franz Kafka after understanding them in the original and appreciate their beauty as there is no incidence of anything being “lost in translation.”

4. What advice would you give people of your age who would like to learn a foreign language?

Each new language is like a window with a new outlook on the world. As we traverse through the maze of language learning, it gently unveils its splendour, treasures and of course its mysteries too. One is never ‘too old’ to learn a foreign language. Research has shown that learning a foreign language when you are older helps avoid cognitive decline, stimulates the brain functions and delays dementia.

5. Now that you are teaching German, how are you enjoying the experience?

In the words of philosopher Benjamin Whichcote “There is no better way to learn than to teach.” Teaching a language I am passionate about to new receptive minds is extremely satisfying.