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Be an informed citizen of the world!
global leadership
"America's continued global leadership will depend on our students' abilities to interact with the world community both inside and outside our borders." *
Although this quote specifically addresses citizens of the United States, who today is not a citizen of the world? Leadership in the global community now more than ever depends on your ability to interact with citizens of diverse cultures. This is true whether you aspire to be a leader in the arts, in business, in the social sciences, or in science and technology.
careers
"Why is the acquisition of a foreign language so important? Consider these facts: Eighty per cent of all American-made goods now face direct competition at home or abroad. Few American business leaders or employees can speak any foreign language, forcing corporations increasingly to hire graduates from abroad--nearly all of whom are language-competent." **
Foreign language majors follow a wide variety of career paths. Some are specifically related to their language competency; others are not. Our students find jobs in the travel and tourism industry or as teachers. Many seek out opportunities with the government or the media. As the above quote suggests, leaders in commerce are actively searching for those competent in a foreign language, and in a multi-cultural society the service industry is increasingly demanding it, inlcuding law. There is virtually no field that does not appreciate those who are comfortable with a foreign language and a foreign culture.
personal enrichment
"Did you know that studying a second language can improve your skills and grades in math and English and can improve entrance exam scores ... GREs, MCATs, and LSATs?" ***
All of our students, however, just enjoy the challenge of learning a foreign language and dream of seeing the world. The study of a foreign language and culture is fun and beneficial for purely personal reasons. It improves the mind and introduces you to the world!
* Committee for Economic Development, in Education for Global Leadership
** Susan B. Larsen, in Planning Job Choices 1994
*** Modern Language Association, in Knowing Other Languages Brings Opportunities
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