Why learn another language? With online translators and other technologies that can help us move through another country more easily, it may seem unnecessary. But technology is far from replacing bilingualism, and learning another language can help you in many other unexpected ways.
Here are six benefits of learning a foreign language:
Connect with other cultures
Let’s start with the obvious: Whether you’re traveling or just conversing with people on the street, nothing compares to the ability to speak without the help of a translator! Filtering everything you say through a translator means conversations take twice as long and are less personal—making these connections are much easier and more natural when you speak the language.
Plus, bilingualism has wider benefits for you as an individual: it makes it easier for you to traverse the globe, helping you build relationships, learn about other cultures, and grow as a global citizen when you connect with people in their language.
Boost your brainpower
Bilingualism doesn’t just make you a better communicator, though. It turns out that learning a language can make you smarter, too!
A study at the University of Edinburgh confirms that language learning improves your attention and mental alertness. And it could even help your brain stay sharp for the rest of your life: Research also shows that bilingualism could stave off the effects of Alzheimer’s as you age.
Help your English
No, it’s not a contradiction: Learning another language can actually do great things for your English, especially if it’s a Romance or Germanic language, the two language families from which English borrows the most.
This can boost your vocabulary, as you learn root words that relate to vocabulary in English. And that means learning a language can help you on vocabulary-focused standardized tests like the SAT.
Improve multitasking and decision-making
Worried that you’ll have trouble keeping your languages straight? Don’t. Turns out, juggling this information is good for your brain.
A Penn State study confirmed that people who speak more than one language are better at working on multiple tasks and prioritizing them. Instead of causing confusion, bilingualism improves mental prowess by helping you learn to “juggle” different ideas. It may also help you make better decisions.
Secure your future
That decision-making ability might come in handy with your college and career options, which you may have more of if you know another language. Many colleges require language learning from their applicants, and employers love seeing a second language on a resume or CV. Depending on where you work, it can be essential, but wherever you go, it will make you an asset to the company!
Being bilingual in the United States also gives you a unique opportunity to help others—with such a large non-English speaking population in the U.S., you can help in ways that monolinguists can’t, especially if you go into certain fields like medicine or law.
Have fun!
Speak to your friends in “code,” show off your skills when you travel, make new friends, and enjoy the thrill of being able to read and speak in another language. When you take the time to learn another language, you’re not just memorizing words—you’re taking a step into a larger world.