Hello, my name is Salek. I was born and raised in the United States, but my family is originally from Pakistan. My reasons for learning languages are many. I grew up in a trilingual household, speak two languages fluently, and can get by in two others. More than anything else, I see the study of foreign languages as a means of better understanding those cultures and countries which interest me. I believe being able to communicate with a language's speakers, and also being able to appreciate its various media (music, film, literature, etc.), enhances my understanding of those cultures and places. Here on italki I'm looking primarily for formal language instruction. However, I'm also interested in opportunities to practice my speaking and listening skills through informal conversation.