By Lindsay Norman/ reporter
With technology and social media advancements, millennials seem to find communication across the globe easier.
NE Spanish student Rin Kitching believes learning a second language is important, regardless of one’s major or career path.
“It is definitely beneficial for all majors to learn a second language because once you begin a career in the field of your choice, it will help drastically,” she said. “Many people at your daily job will likely speak other languages besides English as well.”
Kitching has already completed the minimum two foreign language credits and is now working in the highest-level courses TCC offers.
“I believe it is necessary to learn at least the basics of another language today because of the constant communication between countries,” she said. “Most businesses communicate abroad to sell or make products. With the ease of access to the Internet, it is becoming popular to learn other languages and connect across the globe.”
However, learning another language is not as easy as one would think, but it is rewarding in the end. NE Spanish assistant professor Marsha Hall said some of her students benefited from learning a second language in their careers and travels as well as with their family and friends.
“For me, it has opened doors both here in the U.S. and abroad,” she said. “Not being a native Spanish speaker helps me identify with a student who has no background in a language. I understand how frustrating grammatical points can be and the strict time and effort it takes to learn the language.”
The thought of learning another language may seem difficult for students who are preoccupied with life’s chores and still trying to remember English’s “I before E” rule, but it can help people reflect on their own native tongues as well.
“It makes you analyze your own language and enlightens a different worldview because you are exposed to a new culture,” Hall said. “Learning a language isn’t just about learning grammar. It is learning to communicate and relate to another culture.”
Nothing is lost from learning a second language.
“Native speakers will be delighted that you are attempting to speak ‘their’ language and will appreciate the effort,” Hall said. “Just knowing basic gestures, you will be more well received.”
For those who are skeptical of the process, NE Spanish student Kevin Hillhouse has a plan for hammering down his studies when learning a foreign language.
“Study at least three times a week for five minutes,” he said. “You’ll usually end up studying more like 30 minutes to a couple of hours. Remember why you decided to learn a new language to stay motivated.”
