I am a B1 level learner of Spanish currently going full force trying to make it to B2. I will switch over to learning Portuguese soon via formal coursework next semester at my university. My background in learning Spanish is two years in high school and practicing in any way I could since high school, especially for the past year, in all four areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. These days I probably spend a good ten hours a week, touching upon all four areas. I regularly supplement my knowledge in Spanish by speaking friends, visiting authentic websites devoted to teaching Spanish (avenues for listening, reading and writing), and by reading from a “how to” book which in theory gets you to be B2 in reading and writing. Yes, I am determined (pun intended) to learn Spanish.
But I am also determined to get to Portuguese as well. In high school my Spanish instructor noticed my fascination with Portuguese and believed I had the aptitude and the drive to get to Portuguese, when I was ready. I love Spanish so much but I love Portuguese probably even more. I have the aptitude to be able to learn things rather quickly, given I have dedication to it.