How I Learn Chinese: a Chinese text with translation

My name is Anna, and I've been learning Chinese for two years.

When I was little I saw a Chinese movie, and since then I've been interested in Chinese.

At first, I thought Chinese characters were especially hard; I had to write each one many times.

When I spoke, my pronunciation was often wrong, and my Chinese friends couldn't understand me.

Later I found a good method.

Every morning I listen to Chinese songs for twenty minutes and sing along as I listen.

In the evening I chat online with a Chinese girl, and she helps me practice speaking.

We talk not only about studying, but also about music, movies, and life.

Besides going to class, I also watch Chinese TV shows to learn about Chinese culture.

Now my level has improved a lot, and I can understand simple news.

My teacher says the most important thing in learning a language is to keep at it.

Next year I plan to go study in China, and I believe I'll speak even better.