Oh, language. It’s an essential part of our existence, yet many do not see the importance of studying it. It’s not for everyone, but it sure is a lot more than just studying grammar.
Now that I’m in my second year as a French major, I have come to appreciate all that the program has to offer. This doesn’t just go for the French department though; I know so many English, Spanish, German, and modern language majors who appreciate their programs too.
A language major will learn a variety of different skills. I have gained a profound understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and various expressions of the language. I have read literature from years ago while noticing the subtle differences in the language itself. I have learned about the cultures that speak this language. I have learned the fundamental sounds that the language is based on and it’s linguistic capabilities. I have written so many essays of different kinds that I simply cannot count them. As you can see, I learn a lot more than just the language. I learn how to speak, read, and think in the language, but I also learn about everything that surrounds it.
For those of you who aren’t language majors, I challenge you to take a language course. Maybe just an introductory class, or even the mandatory English all arts students take, but I urge you to embrace all that comes with a language course. You will learn things that will apply to your everyday use of the language, and if you’re lucky you might pick up a few interesting expressions along the way.
My favourite part of being a language major is being able to form opinions and express exactly what I feel on the subject to my professors. It isn’t often that I only have to memorize material. Usually, I get to add my own analysis of things taken into perspective as well.
“The limits of my language are the limits of my world.” — Ludwig Wittgenstein