I really hope that what I have written thus far is comprehensible. Honestly,  I have never fully understood the terms "second language" and "native speaker".

 I speak three languages fluently. English comes as naturally to me as the other two languages. As a matter of fact, it is the first language I use in my daily conversations and on most official business.  However, I do not come from a country that officially recognises English as it's official language. The closest we come to links with the English language is from our colonial past and due to the fact that we are members of the Commonwealth.  Therefore, politically I may not come within the definition of a "native speaker". 

And as I have mentioned, I speak three languages. Which is the first, second or third is anybody's guess as I am at ease with all three.  I spent five years of my life in England pursuing my studies. I couldn't have possibly graduated from one of the leading engineering universities in England by answering questions in my "second language" as it were, could I? I have also have a degree in law from a top British university. And believe me, I couldn't have passed all my exams at first sitting unless English is understood as if it were my "first language".