If your teens want to pick a language that will enhance their careers, it’s important to be realistic about their goals. Nursing students, for example, might find Spanish more useful than Japanese, and aerodynamic majors may find Russian more useful than French.
Here’s some direction to help your student make the right language choice.
French: A lot of important scientific literature is in French, so chemistry, mathematics and physics majors are advised to learn the language. Business majors interested in Middle Eastern trade should also consider French, since it is used in some Arabic affairs.
German: Many science articles are in German, and the language is a must for some fields of science research. German is also important to engineering and business majors, as Germany is a world leader in both.
Hebrew: Certain aspects of archaeological research require Hebrew abilities. Hebrew is also key for biblical research students.
Italian: Italian-speaking business majors may be preferred in manufacturing industries. Students studying archaeology, architecture, art, music and opera should also consider Italian classes.
Japanese: Japan is a strong force in world business affairs, and an understanding of the culture and language is appreciated and beneficial to international business majors.
Russian: Science and math professionals who cannot keep up with Russian progress may be left behind. Russian is especially valuable to aerodynamics, electronics, mathematics, metallurgy, nuclear science and engineering and theoretical physics majors.
Spanish: Spanish fluency is valued in many states. Students interested in urban social work, law enforcement, fire science and health care are strongly encouraged to study Spanish. Trade in Latin America, the Caribbean and Mexico makes Spanish useful to business majors.
