Studying abroad not only gives you the chance to travel and gain new experiences, but also the opportunity to build a new skill-set that can help your career in the future. There is no better time than when you’re studying abroad to begin the process of acquiring a new language, as you will be immersed in the local culture, constantly hearing the language spoken around you and being able to practice using it. Here are just a few ways how, and reasons why learning a second language while studying abroad is a great idea.

It will infinitely improve your studying abroad experience

Being able to speak to locals in their own language will open a lot of doors for you while you’re studying abroad. Although many countries have English as their second language, your ability to communicate with people in their own language makes them more likely to open up to you, as they will recognize your investment in their culture.

It will improve your career prospects

The massively globalized economy means that most companies are doing business all over the world and because of this they need people who are capable of speaking foreign languages. When you’re applying for jobs in the future, an ability to speak a second or third language will ;vastly increase your chances of landing the position.

How to select language classes

Most universities will have second language classes available to students who are studying abroad, and some even have special programs in place that are specifically designed for acquiring the local language.These specialty programs are often intensive and involve students signing a contract agreeing that they will only speak the local language (save for when talking to the family at home, etc.) during their time studying abroad.

Potential graduate studies

If you’re interested in language and language acquirement, then you may want to enter graduate studies in a foreign language, or a program such as a Master of arts in translation and interpretation. This type of program will develop your language skills to a full fluency, and will also teach you techniques and skills for working as an interpreter or translator. This degree can lead to working in a variety of positions, for an organization like the UN, or for multi-national corporations.

There are few things that will continually serve your future like being able to speak multiple languages, so why not get a head start by learning one while you’re abroad?

Images by Moyan Brenn and Brandon Morse