English is considered an international language, and many across the globe study English for its versatility and usefulness in communication. While complete fluency in English will take time, you have the ability to expedite the process of reaching a higher level of English proficiency. Though taking an intensive language course will help you learn quickly, there are a number of activities you can practice on your own to rapidly improve your English.

Flashcard Immersion Activity
Use flashcards to learn new English vocabulary through the immersion method. Write the word in English on one side of the card, but instead of writing the meaning in your first language on the other side, find a photo of the word. For example, for the word "apple" find a picture of an apple to put on one side of the card instead of writing out the translation. Look through magazines or old newspapers for pictures. This will help you associate the vocabulary directly with the English language rather than in translation through your first language. You can also put labels in English on objects in your house (just be sure to ask your family or roommates first.)

Leaving the "Comfort Zone"
Push yourself to speak English at every possible opportunity. If you live in a community where others speak your first language, try to shop and run errands in a different neighborhood. Completing daily tasks in English will help you develop your language skills in a practical setting. Insist on speaking English even if people respond to you in your first language. Find a group of people with common interests so you can practice speaking about a topic that interests you. Look for groups on Meetup or Craigslist to find native speakers in your community with whom you can discuss topics of interest to you.

Reading and Writing
Interact with written English. You may feel more comfortable writing out new vocabulary words phonetically in your own language or alphabet, but this practice can seriously delay the learning process. If your first language uses a foreign script, continue to practice writing with the Latin alphabet to spell words and phrases in English. The more you get used to the spelling and phonetics of the English language the faster you will progress.

Learning Online
Take advantage of the resources online to help you advance in your English studies. The website Omniglot features links to help you study English online. You can also find online courses and native English speakers with whom to practice on sites such as Livemocha and My Language Exchange. Consistent exposure to English using several methods and materials will help the learning process go faster. Take part in online forums for English language students for tips on what they find difficult in learning English and what has helped them advance. Daves ESL Cafe features such forums as well as links to practice activities for ESL learners and study tips.