Of ostriches, beaches and Euro-competitiveness – Gap year in Malaga

Just finished those horrendous A-levels, Abitur, Bac etc. Don’t want to see another exam for years (well a few weeks at least !). Rather enjoyed those couple of weeks in Greece lazing on the beach, but what should I do now. I’m not going to university for a year..........................

Why not join an increasing number of young people who are using time between school and university to prepare themselves for life in the new Europe by learning another language in depth.

You might be surprised to hear that at Malaca Instituto the typical 18-25 year old European comes to us already speaking at least 3 languages (mother tongue plus 2 others) and is learning Spanish as their 4th or 5th language. These are the very people that you will have to compete with in the Euro job market !

“Oh, but I speak English, everyone can understand me !” Well, you know the one about the ostrich with its head stuck in the sand. In the new Europe, where companies have to compete increasingly with overseas competitors and for overseas contracts, who would you employ : a graduate speaking only their mother tongue and having had experience only of life in their own country, or a European graduate speaking various languages well and with the all important understanding of other peoples and cultures that is gained by studying abroad ?

In 6 - 9 months anyone can become reasonably fluent in a European language, especially when they are young and with the learning mentality from school still fresh in their minds. You do not have to worry unduly if you weren’t much good at French or whatever at school. In an international language school such as Malaca Instituto you will be in small classes (10 students maximum) with other students of your level from all over the world being taught by highly experience and patient teachers. In our experience very few serious students fail to make progress.

You will study Spanish 4 lessons per day (not per week !) and you will see yourself improving day by day. In addition you will have the fabulous experience of being in a school with students of all ages (16 - 90...) coming from many different countries. You will have the chance to make friendships across cultures that could last a lifetime.

In addition to organising your teaching programme, Malaca Instituto also arranges your accommodation (in our on-site residence, in host families or in student apartments) and arranges many cultural, social and tourist activities to help you to get to know the other students, and the people, customs and traditions of Andalucia, one of Europe’s most beautiful and passionate regions.

So, if you are trying to decide what to do for the next 9 months, check out a Spanish language course at Malaca Instituto. You won’t find many ostriches on our beaches !

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