When we decide to start learning something, that new knowledge will generally be useful in one aspect of our life; say we want to start playing a sport like basketball. We will have recreational and health benefits…and that will be it. If we were to start a philosophy course it would probably be because we have a personal interest in this field. If we were to learn about marketing or business, we would be limited to those purposes. However, when it comes to language learning, many aspects of our life would benefit from this knowledge.
While taking Italian classes New York students plan a trip to Rome. –“I have visited Rome before, but I couldn’t speak one word of Italian. I loved the place, it’s beautiful, but I feel like I could have done so many more things and made the most of my time if only I had been able to speak at least some basic Italian”- explained Doug, 26. We couldn’t agree more with him on this matter. When you travel, knowledge of the language will let you explore the city as a local would, not only as a tourist. Tourists are generally limited to the constraints of their own language and of the advice they can get from tour guides and people who work at their hotels. Generally, this type of advice results very expensive. Knowing the language spoken at the place you are visiting allows you to feel comfortable and free in the “strange” place, allowing you to take city buses and subways instead of only tour buses, bargain with sellers at local markets, visiting non-touristic areas, ordering the right food, etc.
A language will also open the doors to new work and business opportunities, regardless of the kind of business or profession you are involved. While taking Portuguese lessons Chicago employers and employees aim at expanding their business relations to Brazil. Such country has experienced a fast economic development in recent years, which explains why many companies seek to do business with Brazilian entrepreneurs.
Having a second language on your resume will make it more appealing to College authorities when applying for admission. Even more, in some Universities, a second language is not only appealing but a formal requirement.
In spite of the above mentioned advantages, the strongest impact a language will make in your life has to do with personal growth. People who speak languages are more culturally knowledgeable, tolerant and open minded. A language is a different system that demands work from a part of your brain you wouldn’t otherwise use. A language makes you a complete human being.