Vanessa interviews her English learner Ronelly about his background, study habits, travel, and goals. The conversation is useful because it shows a learner explaining what has helped and what still feels difficult. Ronelly talks about finding comfortable places while travelling, watching English videos, and trying to form thoughts in English instead of translating every sentence from Portuguese. His comments are personal examples rather than a single required method for every learner.
When discussing hot weather, Ronelly mentions finding a place “with air conditioning.” This practical collocation can help someone describe or ask for a comfortable indoor location. The interview also turns to personal goals. Ronelly says learning to play piano is “one of my New Year’s resolutions.” A resolution is an intention, not a guarantee, so the phrase is useful for sharing a goal without claiming it has already happened.
Vanessa asks about the effort to “think in English.” Ronelly explains that he sometimes forms a thought in Portuguese and then translates it, which can take time. He is also trying to think directly in English. The phrase describes a practice goal, not a test of whether someone is a good learner. Translation can be useful; learners may gradually rely on it less for familiar words and situations while still using all the languages they know.
The conversation mentions speaking with a native speaker as one possible goal. That can provide valuable practice, but it is not the only way to improve: classmates, multilingual friends, teachers, and independent speaking exercises can also help. Ronelly emphasizes that learning is difficult but happens “step by step,” a common encouraging expression for gradual progress. “Trying to think in English” describes an effort, not a claim of complete fluency.
For practice, state one specific way you use English, one situation where you would like to speak, and a small goal for this week. You might describe a video routine or a short conversation plan. If you still translate, explain what you are trying next rather than criticizing yourself. The key takeaway is to treat progress as personal: practise in ways that fit your life, notice what helps, and move forward one manageable step at a time.