As a world language student, I’ve often thought about the benefits of studying a language for my bachelor’s degree. The truth is that many people tend to see the disadvantages of my choice and not the benefits.
Let’s look at three benefits of studying a language:
1. Job marketability
Employers desire candidates with a varied skill set. Knowing another language gives you the spoken and cultural understanding that other candidates may not have. This is why I chose to study Spanish as my major, while preparing to apply to a Master of Public Health program after graduation. I know that having a cultural perspective will aid me in my future programs and in my professional life in healthcare. Walking into a healthcare setting with cultural competencies will ease my patients’ worries and help me form a special connection right away. In addition, many companies increase their salary options for bilingual workers. Better pay is never a bad thing!
2. Unique job skills
Like I said before, mastering two or more languages can give you a better understanding of another culture. But how can that help you in being successful at your job? Language skills not only get your foot in the door for a job but they can also keep that door open. Many employers realize that bilingual workers have the upper hand when it comes to understanding a foreign business's expectations, which they can prepare for and deliver.
3. Keeping your brain on its toes
Apart from being a more marketable job candidate, practicing Spanish on a regular basis also keeps my cognitive abilities on high alert. Studies have shown this can be helpful in preventing age-related cognitive impairments, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Learning or studying a language will essentially keep your brain in workout mode and has been proven to give bilinguals an advantage in problem solving.
