<p>I've been teaching myself Czech for a little over a month. I really like the language, it's pretty easy for me (I've learned at least 50-75 vocabulary words, a lot of the grammar, and decent pronunciation, and I could spend a lot more time on it than I do). Assuming that I get into Michigan, is it realistic to think that I could place into any level of Czech higher than just basic Czech 101 if I don't have a formal class beforehand and just keep studying it a lot by myself? Would it be a good idea? How would I go about doing so?</p>
<p>If it matters, I'm not planning to major in linguistics, Eastern European/Slavic studies, etc.; I'm only considering getting a minor or concentration.</p>
<p>I can’t imagine that anyone on college confidential will have first hand or even second hand experience to be able your answer your question. You would probably be best off if you contact the head of the Slavic language department and the Czech professor to find out how this works. I suspect that they will be helpful with your inquiry.</p>
<p>“Concentration” is major by the way… Yes, it takes less to major in something than you probably expected.</p>
<p>I concur with res ipsa, you’re gonna have to ask someone in the department. All I could find for Czech languages is this minor program: [Academic</a> Minor: Czech Language, Literature, and Culture](<a href=“http://www.lsa.umich.edu/students/academicsrequirements/concentrationsminors/slaviclanguagesandliteratures/academicminorczechlanguageliteratureandculture]Academic”>http://www.lsa.umich.edu/students/academicsrequirements/concentrationsminors/slaviclanguagesandliteratures/academicminorczechlanguageliteratureandculture)</p>
<p>I looked on wolverine access and it looks like only 2 people are enrolled in first year Czech for Fall. Assuming they don’t cancel it, I would think the class could really be specialized for you and match your level of proficiency. It should be a bit different than intro Spanish or something. But anyway, the professor is Pasek, Ewa Maria and her email is <a href=“mailto:ewamm@umich.edu”>ewamm@umich.edu</a>. Try asking her.</p>