Growing up in the United States my primary language has always been viewed negatively, especially in my education. Teachers have said, "It's America speak English," and speech therapists would blame my Spanish-speaking roots for my speech impediment. Culturally, America has always put pressure on me to change my identity while in Mexico I always felt true to myself. I wouldn't change living here for the world though because it has made me who I am, a serious yet humorous individual. Here are some of the benefits of being bilingual.
Understanding the entertainment industry in both languages.
Spanish speaking people automatically have a weird connection when someone mentions novelas like Ruby or Rebel and even Sabado Gigante. It's something we all watched growing up and it's an experience you can't share with people who don't speak your maternal language. Don't even get me started with music. Spanish music is sexy and we know. You have the opportunity to listen to music with meaning and flavor.
Throwing shade
Something I don't tend too often but it's hilarious. Like the saying goes everything sounds better in Spanish. And some people are so ignorant they believe anything you say. It has definitely made my jokes 10 times funnier they would have been in English only. The best part is when other Spanish speakers are speaking badly about you because they think you don't speak the language and you speak to them and it's like "sorpresa puta."
Using the CLEP to test out of everything
First thing any Spanish speaking person does at a university is CLEP all the language requirements. Then you think to yourself "might as well get a minor in it," (how hard can it be) and soon discover Spanish departments don't mess around. Well, at least you saved yourself some money.
Relatable
It makes you relatable and when it's convenient you choose which language will define you. For example, we all know Europeans are not fond of Americans so in situations like these you use your maternal language. In addition, you become more diverse, you've experience both culture and can see difference non-bilingual people can't. Plus if anyone ever needs a translator you're ready to translate.
More opportunities
I don't care what people who are against bilingualism say, being bilingual has created opportunities for me that wouldn't have be there if it wasn't for my maternal language. I am proud and thankful for my parents for giving me such a gift. I love everything that comes with being biligual even if at times I'm not "Mexican" enough or "American" enough, I am who I am because of this ability and wouldn't change it for anything.
