How to Lose My American Accent
Hola! I'm only in highschool, but I think I've got a really good grasp on the Spanish language, at least in terms of listening/reading/writing. However, it's hard for me to seriously talk with any of my Spanish-speaking friends because, even though I hadn't really realized it, I have a pretty bad American accent. If anyone has any tips on how to sound more like a nastive speaker or any ways to improve my accent, they would be greatly appreciated. Gracias!
7 Answers
My best advice for you is to just keep trying. I've had experience myself where so of my coworkers who I know speak Spanish kind of laugh when I try to talk to them. I think it's just because they're not expecting an American to speak their language. If you're looking to improve conversational skills, I'd also recommend watching kids shows in Spanish. I try to have my kids do so as much as possible.
I would just add that we all; have "accents"; including native speakers - of more importance is correct pronunciation.
Who do you want to sound like? There are about 300 million Spanish speakers. Or which nationality Cuban - Chilean - Costa Rican ? etc etc you sure can't do all of them.
PS there are some you don't want to copy e,g, those that leave off all th "S" ma o meno
Even natives have different accents which are influenced by their origin. My suggestion would be to first think of a famous actor/actress with the accent that you'd like, so you could find many videos of him/her. A child is the best choice, as a kid's accent is clear and pronounciaction is exaggerated. Then sample some clips with short sentences to which you can listen in a loop. Now just listen-and-repeat each sample for multiple times (that's what I did anyway!)
u are living in states and im sure u can find some native speaker around who would like to help u practice or some spanish speaking club open to all but since u are in high school it might be best u go with skype so that your parents can supervise the interaction. it s not that well-known but there is a search option that allows u to find a native speaker at any age&nationality;&location; who is willing to teach&learn; a language online. it is free if the counterpart is located in ur country (usa in ur case). just give it a shot 
Let someone punch you 10 times in the face. Each time make sure it's a different spot because you're trying to find a special part of your brain. It can usually be done in about 10 hits and you know it's done when you start feeling dizzy. If they do it right, you will never talk the same again.
Hint: Find a athelete. ;-D
When I was going through the Pimsleur courses, they encouraged you to listen to native Spanish speakers and just try to sound like them. Give it a try. I always get complemented because people say that I sound more like a native when I speak (except that I have a long way to go to be fluent! lol)
Find a Spanish article or text with audio. Try to imitate the accent and pronunciation while recording your voice. Listen to yourself and take note of your mistakes. Do it over and over again until you are satisfied with the results.
