Learning German at any age: The inspiring story of James, 89, at ActiLingua Vienna

At ActiLingua Academy in Vienna, we see every day that learning German is open to everyone – regardless of age. This month, we are especially proud to introduce James, our “Hero of the Month.”

At 89 years old, James traveled all the way from Oklahoma City, USA, to embark on the exciting journey of learning German. His dedication and curiosity remind us that it’s never too late to start learning, embrace new passions, and take on new challenges.

Lifelong learning at ActiLingua: Meet James

James’ story is a perfect example of lifelong learning. He joined ActiLingua to study German in Vienna, proving that motivation and curiosity don’t fade with age.

We had the pleasure of speaking with him in a short interview to learn more about his motivations, experiences, and what inspires him to keep learning.

Mini-interview: Why James chose to learn German in Vienna

What inspired you to learn German at this stage in your life?

Well, yes, I have a great love for the opera; and I wanted to understand the words. I also have a general interest in the changes that occurred at the change of the century with the secession and Wagner

– Well, understanding the words in a German opera, even for a native speaker, that is a very ambitious goal.
(laughs) I’m glad to hear that.

Also, when I was younger, I was very interested in Freud. I’m a psychiatrist, and I studied with Freud’s daughter in London and seeing her surrounded by all the people who had fled Vienna sparked an interest in the culture.

What do you enjoy most about studying at ActiLingua?

I was very grateful for the quality of the teaching – it was fantastic. What I love about learning German is the logical way of words fitting together, especially those long, long words made up of so many little ones and when it all makes sense.

I was very grateful that the school provided me with a person who helped me through the booking process, Kristele Auer (his agent). Without her, I would have given up, because at my age some digital processes are too challenging.

Why did you choose Vienna as your place to learn German?

For its cultural history, I seriously thought of it and of Berlin, Weimar and Tübingen, but I chose Vienna in the end.

What advice would you give to others who might think it’s too late to start learning something new?

Go ahead – don’t be discouraged. I know so many people who became old at age 65 and I pity them. Just like you need to exercise your body to keep it from falling apart, you have to do the same for your mind, and you miss out on so much enjoyment if you don’t. I have so many interests that I would like to pursue, but there is not enough time and in the past I felt I couldn’t because I was working hard and supporting my family.

Do you have any other goals after you have mastered the German language?

Yes, I want to travel the Salt Road and I’ve always wanted to see Samarkand. In fact, that is how I met my wive, because she was the first person I’d met who knew where Samarkand was.

Favorite place / Special place in Vienna (recommendation)?

I loved the Kunsthistorische Museum in Vienna, especially the Bruegel paintings.

Favorite German word(s)?

Gemütlich – it just feels comfortable.

You have spent two weeks in Vienna, has it changed you in any way?

Yes, now, let me think. There is a greater depth of feeling what you all have been through and a sense of the wider world we live in. When I watch TV in my apartment here, there are channels in German, French and other languages, that we don’t have in the US and the reporting is better, more cosmopolitan. In the US, at the moment, we have a lot of troubles with fascism and totalitarianism, and it gives me hope to see what you have overcome.

– Well, I don’t know whether you can quite say we have overcome those problems.

Yes, that’s right, with the last election. So, I’m going home one day before the election, to vote. It will not change anything for my state, but I hope that on the lower levels I help change the outcome.