Speaking Imperfect English Can Transform Your Life

Описание: Learning English as a non-native speaker changed my life (IELTS, academia, career growth) from Cuba to Europe, plus practical tips to improve your English fast.

I came from a small town in Cuba where access to basic needs was severely limited. One day I decided to teach myself English and signed up for the IELTS test. Ten years later, I live in one of Europe’s most developed cities, pursuing an academic and professional path that once felt impossible.

This video isn’t just about learning a second language. It’s about breaking barriers, expanding your options, and using English as leverage for education, research, and career growth (even when the odds are not on your side).

You’ll learn:
→ Why English matters for opportunities (especially in science and academia)
→ How English became the default language of research and global work
→ My story of deciding to learn English (what worked and what didn’t)
→ What the IELTS test was like and how I prepared
→ Three practical ways to improve your English without burning out

This is for non-native speakers, students, and early-career professionals who feel blocked by language (and want a realistic roadmap that respects the struggle and still delivers results).

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📺 RESOURCES
→ Related video (1):    • Cargo Cult in Computer Science: An Uncomfo...  
→ Related video (2):    • The world's English mania - Jay Walker  
→ Blog post (IELTS self-training): https://www.cesarsotovalero.net/blog/...
→ Nature article (science boycotts): https://www.nature.com/articles/d4158...

⏰ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Intro
02:22 – Why English Is Important
03:57 – The Rise of English as The Language of Science
07:28 – Deciding to Learn English (my story)
12:31 – The IELTS Test
16:13 – Open Opportunities Through English
19:12 – 3 Ways to Improve Your English
22:56 – Final Thoughts

#LearningEnglish #NonNativeSpeakers #IELTS #AcademicJourney #PhDLife #LanguageLearning #EnglishTips #StudyAbroad