Language controversies

From the moment I was born I was exposed to a tongue different to my own. With my mother’s parents both originating from Poland, I have been able to witness first hand the differences between languages. One of my biggest regrets so far in life was not to learn Polish at a decent level; my grandparents and mother have all taught me some basics of the language but I never really took too much interest in pursuing a higher understanding. I just wish that I’d made the effort so that I could have talked to my grandmother in her native tongue before she passed away because I knew of the difficulties she had with grasping English when she immigrated to England in 1957. If I go with my granddad to see his friends I also have regret as I would love to join in with their conversations and hear their tales. I also believe my granddad would be even prouder of me if I could talk to him in Polish. Writing this essay gives me added determination to learn more of the language so I can learn more about their culture.
In the two weeks I have lived in the USA I have already experienced the differences between our English languages. Confusion has arisen from even the simplest of words or phrases. For example during soccer practice, when we first got told to bring our cleats and pinnies with us, the European section of the squad did not understand what we were being asked of. After some discussion between the squad, we realized that we were being asked to bring our soccer boots and bibs. This shows that even though we both talk English, there is a world of difference between ‘British English’ and ‘American English’.
My English accent has also attracted much interest, as people on campus seem to take more notice or an interest in me when they hear me talk. This has probably given me an advantage in making friends with people as classmates seem more eager to make conversation with me, leading to friendships being made easier.