The pandemic had taken away my established career, but gave me the opportunity to return to study and enjoy a period of significant introspection. As an older student, I recognised that the opportunities to take time away from work 
after my course would be few and far between.
The John Speak Language Trust generously offered to support me as I took the first three mont
hs of the year to improve my German in Vienna, after the completion of my postgraduate degree. During this time I was able to attend German language school, make new friends, and more importantly take time to reflect on my next steps in life.
I took very easily to Viennese life, particularly the pastries and coffee, and was able to significantly improve my 
language skills. Without the support of the John Speak Language Trust, I would not have been able to spend so much time in language submersion, and my level of German would certainly not have ended up so high.
I hope that future language students benefit from the trust, and that in future I will be able to support those students.