There is an important need for people to speak languages other than English—and there are major opportunities for them, too.
A second language is becoming a vital part of the basic preparation for an increasing number of careers, especially law enforcement, (pre-)health, education, hospitality, business, social services, public policy and marketing. What’s more, fluency in - or even familiarity with - a foreign language can improve your chances for promotion or an assignment abroad. And, of course, speaking another language can make you a better-prepared traveler.
Still need convincing?
Why We Need to Cultivate America’s Multilingual, Multicultural Assets
Century Foundation, 2023. Shows a demand for employees in Washington State and across the nation who speak Spanish or have knowledge of the culture.
Bilingualism Delays Onset of Dementia, Study Shows
American Academy of Neurology, 2013. A research study in India found that people who regularly used two languages showed fewer signs of dementia four years later than those who spoke only one.
Your Mind on Language: How Bilingualism Boosts the Brain
The Huffington Post. A feature outlining the cognitive benefits of bilingualism, even for adult learners.
How the Brain Benefits from Being Bilingual
Lifehack. A sourced article showing that bilingual professionals can earn nearly twice as much as their monolingual counterparts.
In the Hospital, a Bad Translation Can Destroy a Life
NPR, 2014. A report on the dangers of poor translation and interpretation in medical settings, particularly for non-English-speaking patients.
10 Reasons to Take Language and Culture Courses
Washington State University Vancouver. A resource explaining why studying language and culture benefits students and professionals, including the growing demand for multilingual educators and healthcare workers.