Month: March 2025

Into the Great Beyond: Learning Burmese, Weeks 28-29

Burmese is the third language I’ve studied at FSI, and it’s also the longest formal language program I’ve undertaken. Last week, I completed week 29 of Burmese, surpassing the time I’d previously spent in Spanish (24 weeks)* and Russian (28 weeks).

As I ventured into the great beyond, spring arrived on campus—fittingly—and offered clear proof that we’ve endured the long winter and a new season is just ahead.

*(Note: Since I completed Spanish in 2020, FSI has extended its Spanish program from 24 to 30 weeks. This is partly due to the high no-pass rate on the Spanish End of Training test and a desire to help students avoid language training extensions that delay arrival to Post.)

Showing Up and Third Progress Evaluation: Learning Burmese, Week 27

Two weeks ago in my Burmese class, I hit a couple of exciting milestones. First, I had a breakthrough in how I generate speech, especially when tackling longer discussions—finally, a strategy that clicks!

Second, I not only survived my third progress evaluation but even enjoyed parts of it. The results were a confidence boost, reinforcing my daily experience in the program, and keeping my hopes high for passing the End of Training test (EOT) in four months. Momentum is on my side!

The Pendleton Act: Learning Burmese, Weeks 24-26

Last Friday marked the end of week 26 of my Burmese program. Now 59% complete, we’ve shifted from everyday topics like our biographies, weather, and travel to work-related themes such as peace and security, bilateral relations, human rights, natural disasters, and the global economy.

Just weeks ago, my biggest challenges—less individual instruction time after our class merger last November and preparation for our upcoming PCS move to Burma this summer—felt significant.

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