Knowing another language is amazing! I've been a French immersion student in Louisiana for over ten years. It can be difficult to understand at times, but it's also really fun and romantic. Here are five reasons why I love being able to speak French.
1. I Can Speak Another Language.
How cool is it to be able to say you know a language other than English? Don't get me wrong, English is the bomb.com! It's my native tongue and favorite subject in school, but it's... plain. I don't like plain; I like to stand out.
2. Everything Sounds Sophisticated.
I could say 'I went to the store to buy socks,' and it sounds ten times fancier in French. Basically, everything sounds more sophisticated even (I hate to say it) pick up lines. French words are just so pretty and when someone is complimenting you with them it makes you feel pretty, too. That doesn't mean it's going to work, but it still sounds nice.
3. It Looks Great On A Resume.
When gassing myself up on a resume, I want to stand out as much as possible. What makes me different or better than the twenty or more people who are also applying for this? Lots of people volunteer, win awards, and have high GPA's. If I've got all these good points and I'm bilingual, I'm pretty much unstoppable!
Everyone knows it's not easy to learn another language, so when a possible employer sees that you have learned one or more, they'll know that you're hardworking and dedicated.
4. I Live In Louisiana.
Louisiana is all about its French roots. No matter where you go in Louisiana you're bound to hear someone speaking French-Cajun or see something written in it. "Everybody and they momma" knows a little something, something. It may not be the same kind you'd hear walking down the streets in Paris, but it still counts.
Here's a few common French-Cajun words you'll hear in Louisiana: C'est tout which means "That's all," Cher (Sha) which is a term of endearment, Tante which means "Aunt," Lagniappe which means "a little something extra," and Mardi Gras which means "Fat Tuesday."
5. The Variation In Speed.
Some people speak at lightning speed, others not so much. I know it's like that in every language, but I don't know every language. I know English and I know French, and if someone is speaking French I want to be able to understand them regardless of how fast they speak. It is so frustrating to only be able to make out two or three words in a sentence!
Instead of complaining, however, I try to use this as motivation to improve my skills. I'm fluent, but I'm far from perfect.
I recommend everyone to learn a second language. In most schools it's required, but you will appreciate it so much more when you think of it as an opportunity and not an obligation. Being bilingual is not always easy, but it is definitely rewarding!
