Why You Should Study a Foreign Language | Ithaca College (2024)
Compelling Reasons for the Importance of Foreign Language Study
Exposure to diverse languages and cultures is a critical component of a quality education, and the benefits of language study are well documented in many essential areas:
The study of language brings students into contact with people and cultures that are very different from their own, and in a way that encourages respect for diversity. This exposure lowers the barriers that are often at the root of fear and distrust of others. Thus, the knowledge gained from language study contributes to empathy and tolerance towards diverse peoples and reduces prejudice both at home and abroad.
The study of foreign languages not only broadens students’ perspectives of the world, but also imparts a more profound understanding of their own cultures. Exposure to cultures with long histories builds a greater sense of the past within one’s own culture as well.
Foreign language study increases students’ skills in the use of English. Often it is in the foreign language classroom that students gain the greatest understanding of grammar and expand on their vocabulary. Learning the linguistic roots of language further deepens these abilities.
The study of foreign languages enhances listening skills and memory, increases analytical abilities, and builds aptitude in problem solving and working with abstract concepts. It has been shown to enhance the study of other subjects. Abilities in math and English increase, and creativity grows.
The study of foreign language is a distinct advantage in the professional world. Job candidates who are proficient in more than one language are extremely valuable and have a competitive edge in the U.S. economy, where a large proportion of jobs involve work with immigrants and/or are the result of trade with foreign countries. Students who have studied foreign language have more job opportunities available to them both at home and abroad, in an increasingly global society.
Graduates often cite language courses as among the most valuable in helping them to increase their communication skills overall in college, allowing them to obtain desirable employment in a wide range of areas. Language study opens doors in countless fields, including business, marketing, government, medicine, technology, law, and the military.
The study of foreign languages and cultures leads students to become more responsible and committed global citizens. It reduces the barriers to travel and, therefore, encourages continued exposure to other cultures and allows individuals to interact more fully with others.
The study of diverse languages and cultures is a gateway to greater understanding and appreciation for a wide range of other subjects, including art, music, cuisine, film, science, and philosophy. It educates and broadens the mind in limitless ways and is the true core of a liberal education.
The study of foreign languages and cultures leads students to become more responsible and committed global citizens. It reduces the barriers to travel and, therefore, encourages continued exposure to other cultures and allows individuals to interact more fully with others.
Foreign languages provide a competitive edge in career choices: one is able to communicate in a second language. Foreign language study enhances listening skills and memory. One participates more effectively and responsibly in a multi-cultural world if one knows another language.
Languages give you a window into different cultures
Language study is not just about translating words. It gives you a better insight into people and their different cultures, and helps you to learn about a country's past and present, and give you insight into cultural differences and similarities.
While most universities do not require students to be proficient in a second language, having those skills can prove to be an advantage for your applications. These language skills could be as simple as speaking a mother tongue at home, or as advanced as taking advanced Latin classes.
In general, colleges want to see foreign language proficiency, and they don't really care which language you study. Most students, in fact, have few choices. Many schools offer just a couple of languages such as French and Spanish.
While two years of a foreign language is a common length of time for schools to require of applicants, many schools recommend three or four years and some highly selective schools prefer five.
By learning a new language, you gain access to a wider network of professionals, clients, and potential collaborators. Being able to communicate with people in their native language builds trust and strengthens relationships, ultimately opening doors to new career opportunities.
Not only will your knowledge of a foreign language be highly valued by employers, but so too will your cultural awareness and general communication skills. Language skills are in high demand in many different career sectors, especially if you work for a business which operates internationally.
In essence most language degrees will focus on improving fluency and the ability to read, write and speak in another language. Most degrees will also cover the history, politics, literature and film of the country associated with the chosen language.
Learning a foreign language is of the utmost importance and the reasons to study a foreign language are innumerable. Studying (and ultimately fluently speaking) a foreign language helps break barriers and connects human beings on a deeper level of mutual understanding.
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