Chapter 1: The Digital Linguist

Every language accessible on my phone's keyboard opens up a new realm of cultural connections and understanding.

Throughout my journey of learning various languages, I've often felt the thrill of crafting messages in different tongues. Recently, while preparing to text a new acquaintance, I switched languages by tapping the globe icon 🌐 on my messaging app. Curiosity struck as I counted the languages available on my keyboard.

If you're unaware of this feature, I'd be delighted to guide you through adding languages—specifically for Apple devices, which I'm familiar with. Here’s how:

Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards > Add New Keyboard… Select your preferred language(s) and then tap and hold the globe icon 🌐 to switch between them.

It's straightforward!

A glance at my phone's keyboard reflects my personal linguistic interests: English (US), Español (España)—which I find somewhat disappointing as there’s no Español (Cuban)—along with 한국어 (Korean), Ελληνικά (Greek), and of course, Grammarly. Not to mention, I also have a GIF Keyboard, all essential tools for an aspiring polyglot.

If you've followed my writing, you know I'm deeply passionate about cultures, their histories, traditions, and languages. It’s no surprise that I utilize my phone to motivate myself to practice and actively engage in learning.

As I soak in the sun while drafting this, I ponder the significance of your native language:

• Your heritage.
• Your history.
• Your identity.

My first language serves as a reflection of my ancestors’ souls and the legacy they preserved. It helps me comprehend the diverse influences that have shaped my island’s culture, from those who arrived by choice or necessity, all while holding onto their customs.

Perhaps I'm getting a bit philosophical, which could either signal a lovely Friday or simply the result of my rising serotonin levels, often dubbed the "happy hormone."

You might wonder, "Eunice, why focus on these particular languages?" My linguistic curiosity was sparked as a child listening to my “potential former CIA agent” grandfather. His ability to seamlessly switch between Russian, English, Spanish (Cuban), and various accents fascinated me.

Despite my eagerness to learn, opportunities were scarce in Cuba. Moving to the U.S. compelled me to refine the rudimentary English I knew to meet academic standards—hence the English (US) option on my keyboard. During my time at the University of Miami, I found myself among students with a rich vocabulary that often left me struggling to keep up.

At 24, I faced the harsh reality of not being able to finish a general biology exam, despite knowing the material thoroughly. After shedding tears and discussing my situation with the professor, he suggested I consider a nursing career—an idea that made me momentarily furious, as I deeply respect nurses and their vital role in society. Ultimately, I resolved to stay in his class.

I had already enrolled in Latin 101, recognizing its value in grasping medical terminology without rote memorization, thanks to the brilliant Dr. Tran. Her encouragement led me to pursue a second major in Classics.

This may seem crazy, as I was a pre-med student with a minor in general chemistry and a member of the university's professional female ensemble. Yet, it made sense because I would engage with Latin—enhancing my English vocabulary—and Ancient Greek, which proved quite challenging. Additionally, I would dive into complex works by Cicero, Plato, Sophocles, Euripides, Herodotus, Virgil, Ovid, and Homer. This journey pushed me to improve.

You might guess why I have Ελληνικά (Greek) on my keyboard; it's largely due to my Greek friend encouraging me to revisit it. My interest in 한국어 (Korean) has blossomed thanks to their exceptional film and entertainment industry, and I enjoy learning about it daily, motivated by the ever-watchful Duolingo owl.

Grammarly is self-explanatory, while my GIF Keyboard helps me express myself with friends and family.

So why the multitude of keyboards on my phone? Simply put, I’m passionate about languages.

Do you have multiple languages set up on your phone's keyboard? If so, how many?

I’m tagging a few friends who might appreciate this post: Trista Signe Ainsworth, Barbara Carter, Creòman ⌐▨_▨, ALEX KIRKLAND, Thief, Tim Denning, Sara Burdick, TzeLin, Sam, Debdutta Pal, Marcus Musick, Yana Bostongirl, Michele Maize, Michael Rhodes, 🌬️ Mitch Jessey, Anthony J.C., Anne Brown, Jessica Levine, Simon Dillon ♥️.

Chapter 2: The Case for Polyglottery

Exploring the need for a dedicated polyglot institute to support language learners and foster connections across cultures.

Chapter 3: Insights from Successful Polyglots

Learn about the unique strategies that successful polyglots employ to master multiple languages efficiently.