hi, nicole.. i have a german friend and he learned chinese for about one year and a half. Now he speaks perfect english. While i have learned english for about 10 years, but still so-so
concerning with your quesiton, i think it depends on which level you are expected and the aim you learn chinese. and if u are interested in the language you are learning , it will make u happy in the process of learning, happier when learning,quicker u learn,