Ol`gita Major: International Economic Relations Status: Workygirl I am fond of chocolates, flowers, friends, loud music, watching movies, taking pictures and traveling!!!

Language Importance
Olya Bezvushko

When you go to another country, do not rely completely on English as a back up to communicate, especially if it is not the national language in your host country. While you are abroad you may probably have to use and practice another language every day. You will have to deal with native speakers at every turn. Be ready, that even a simple going to the supermarket will turn to be a language class during which you can pick up subtitles, pronunciation, idioms, stories and jokes you never would have learned from any other source. Soon you will understand that you are learning new stuff even without trying. 

One more advantage of total submergence includes also submergence into a new culture. Follow it, and it will open you more opportunities to explore the music, literature and art of other countries.

The total submergence makes you more marketable in the world of jobs, even on an international level. With one more language obtained you have an extra edge-above other job candidates.

Moreover, you can use your language class credits which you earn abroad to add a major or minor back at your home university campus. You may tutor or mentor other students with the language you have learned.
Each program for international students has its own language requirements. Mostly, you can tell how intensive a program’s course of study will be, in accordance to the language proficiency requirements.  Check what prior level of language your program requires so that you can start to learn or to perfect another language abroad.

In addition, check either your study abroad program offers language instructions in your host country’s indigenous language or some different dialect, that is popular abroad. Those who are interested in anthropology, linguistics and national securities will benefit a lot from studying such languages. 

So, remember that learning another language while staying abroad may help you to enhance your academic learning, develop leadership skills, benefit your future career and provide personal growth.