Second Language

Language study allows you to explore other cultures, opening your mind and heart to meet differences with empathy rather than prejudice. It also gives you a deeper understanding of all that is shared between different communities and cultures, provides insight into why someone from another culture communicates the way they do, and allows you to try out different ways of being in the world. For example, you might shift the way you relate to the natural world through learning Dakota or relish the quiet of the afternoon pausa through learning Italian.

Connect to fellow classmates and other students on campus: All students in language courses benefit from smaller course sizes and more frequent class sessions that help students connect with each other and even build lifelong friendships. Numerous language and cultural clubs at the U help students expand these connections outside of their coursework.

Connect to family history, traditions, and cultural heritage: For many students at the University of Minnesota, language study is a path to more meaningful connection with their family history, traditions, and cultural heritage. Further developing language skills passed down through generations, rounding them out, and gaining a more holistic understanding of the cultural diversity associated with various language communities allows heritage language learners to connect to their roots on a more profound level.

Connect to cultures around the globe: Language study allows you to deepen your connection to communities around the world, whether that means interacting with international communities on campus through the TandemPlus program or deepening a study abroad experience.

Knowledge of a language can deepen your connections across disciplines. For example:

• Many social, political, and philosophical theorists wrote their original works in French.
• Accessing environmental literature in the original Arabic can help you understand diverse ways of relating to the natural environment.
• Germany is a leader in engineering and climate science. If you are interested in these topics, internship opportunities abound!
• Understanding the narratives about medicine and cultural healing practices of diverse Spanish-speaking communities can inform your work with multicultural patients in the United States.

You’ll discover a variety of interdisciplinary connections depending upon the language you study. No matter which one you choose, knowledge of a second language offers an academic experience with greater depth and breadth.

Language study prepares you for life after graduation and makes you stand out when applying for jobs. In fact, 9 out of 10 businesses rely on employees with skills in languages other than English (Ipsos Public Affairs, 2018). Developing skills in multiple languages and having the ability to work in diverse cultural environments is a huge asset to your future career and job prospects. CLA students are sometimes surprised to discover where language study can take them!

Through language study, you’ll develop skills employers value such as:

• Problem solving. You’ll learn to consider different perspectives, employ different strategies to communicate your ideas, and use critical thinking skills to analyze new material.
• Risk-taking and perseverance. You’ll learn to take risks, overcome challenges, and keep trying even when you don't find immediate success.
• Collaboration. You’ll learn to listen to others, challenge your frame of reference, and explore different perspectives.