When I started took a 101 and 102 Mandarin class. It was the only class I was taking so I gave my whole attention. I studied for several hours each day. I practice my handwriting every day still. YouTube videos of Chinese sitcoms are helpful to watch.

I can read and write well but my speaking has always struggled. I don't hear as well as others and I often can't tell which tone I am using or the other person is using.