Should American students be required to learn a second language?

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Knowing a second language has always been an advantageous skill. The more languages you know, the easier it would be for you to communicate in different life situations. At work, at college, at trips, at international contests and many other occasions the additional language is highly preferable. Of course, for an average American student, who plans to work and live further in the USA, the English can be enough. However, knowing a second language can increase the number of attractive job opportunities and help to distinguish you from the other candidates. The better your skills and competencies, the higher your pay in the job market. International students often write their coursework in English and always enjoy using a coursework writing service.

The world is globalizing, that’s why it is crucial to have a possibility to get information using language. Knowing a second language allows you to read, study, discuss and learn in another language. Also, you can talk to more people, understand their points of view, get to know their cultures.

You do not need to be fluent in one language to travel to anywhere in the world, but it is true that knowing how to speak a language will greatly enhance your travel experience. You will be able to talk directly with the natives, who can give tips, tell stories. You can even make them happier by showing respect to their language. Knowing a second language is an excellent way to make new friends and try to understand how culture works.

Importance of learning

Some people are arguing about the relevance of learning the second language in America. Their main argument is related to the fact that English is an international language and those who don’t speak English are in more need of learning the second language than the Americans. However, it is scientifically proven that studying a second language is an excellent exercise for the brain. Bilingual people are more creative, focused and have a more developed memory. Learning a new language causes you to use and develop parts of the brain that have absorbed the mother tongue naturally, not through effort.  Also, there are studies linking the learning of new languages ​​to a delay of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, for example.

The American Academy of Neurology found that learning another language increases the connections between neurons and makes the person able to process information through several different channels. Therefore, it is true that learning a new language takes your mental agility to another level. 

New language equals new career

There are also some certain advantages of learning a second language for those who are willing to create an impressive career as well. Let’s take a look at them:

  1. If you speak other languages, then you will be able to communicate much more efficiently and with far greater reach. Connect with professionals from your area in different countries and take advantage of the opportunities these contacts can offer.
  2. If your company or employer does not yet have a business or international partner, you can use your fluency in another language to open up that horizon.
  3. Talking to your clients in their native language is a detail that makes all the difference. In addition to gaining more trust from this person, you also show respect for your culture and differences.
  4. If the company you work for has branches in different countries, then it is even more important that you lengthen your list of languages. This helps you gain visibility among your colleagues and take advantage of job opportunities at other company headquarters.

There’s one more important advantage of learning new languages – it develops your creativity! As you get the information, you need to put it together in your head so that new phrases and new concepts make sense – especially when you need to communicate with a native speaker of the language you are learning. Since you do not have the same level as a native, you need to fill in the communication gaps, and that’s where creativity comes in. And it happens to be in all other areas of your life.

The ability to master one or more foreign languages is not a stagnant goal but represents the possibility of developing a vast linguistic and cultural repertoire that provides the recognition of the difference and the appreciation of diversity. The time of studies is the most effective period to persuade new knowledge. So, don’t waste your time and start learning new languages!