We live in an increasingly interconnected and dependent global community. We see all sorts of different cultures and identities. But, that doesn’t mean we truly understand them. Similarly, learning a language doesn’t guarantee an understanding of its speakers’ culture. I, like many other students, have pursued a minor in a foreign language. As part of my German studies, I’ve had the privilege of studying at the Goethe Institute in Dresden, Germany. Having recently returned to the United States, I think everyone pursuing a language degree should have a similar experience.
It’s widely recognized that immersion in a native-speaking environment accelerates language acquisition dramatically. The benefits include experiencing common vocabulary usage, solidifying grammatical systems and increasing communication speed. Additionally, studying abroad immerses students in the native culture of the language they have studied.
Immersion in Dresden has significantly enhanced my academic work. Daily interactions with native speakers have clarified complex grammatical concepts and enriched my vocabulary. The need to communicate effectively has sharpened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I’ve had a deeper engagement with all my coursework, resulting in a stronger commitment to academic success across the board.
Daily interactions and cultural immersion play crucial roles in understanding idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms. These phrases carry meanings that transcend literal translations, deeply rooted in the cultural and historical context of the language. Engaging with native speakers in everyday situations allows students to grasp the nuances of these expressions, enriching their comprehension and making their communication more authentic and nuanced. This deepened understanding transforms our language skills from mere textbook knowledge to practical, living fluency.
Living abroad is a transformative experience that builds personal confidence and independence. Navigating daily life in a foreign country requires adapting to new cultural norms, overcoming language barriers and solving unexpected problems. These challenges force students out of their comfort zones and foster a sense of self-reliance and resilience. My time in Dresden has boosted my confidence in handling unfamiliar situations and making decisions independently.
Studying abroad positively impacts academic performance not just in language proficiency, but also across various academic areas. Research indicates that students who study abroad often achieve higher academic outcomes than students who stay on campus. This improvement stems from the practical application of language skills in real-world settings, complementing traditional classroom learning.
Studying abroad also enhances practical problem-solving abilities, such as handling logistical issues, navigating public transportation or managing finances in a different currency. Engaging with peers and professionals from around the world helps build a global network that can lead to future job opportunities and collaborations.
The professional benefits of studying abroad are equally compelling. Immersive international experiences significantly improve career readiness and open up valuable networking opportunities. Employers highly value the adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills that students develop while living abroad. Being able to navigate different cultural contexts and work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds is a crucial skill in today’s globalized job market.
Furthermore, studying abroad can help a campus as a whole by enriching the multicultural understanding of students. When students return from their international experiences, they bring back enhanced language skills and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. Firsthand exposure to different cultures develops empathy and cultural sensitivity — essential traits in our interconnected world. This fosters a more inclusive and culturally aware community, benefiting everyone.
Some may argue that studying abroad is not feasible for all students due to financial constraints and the need to work through the summer. However, the University of Michigan can easily mitigate this struggle. I received a substantial amount of financial aid for my studies in Germany, and many other students I have met are working while they’re studying abroad. The University could even expand summer abroad programs to include work abroad programs, all of which could be facilitated by the Center for Global and Intercultural Study. These experiences encourage students to challenge assumptions and broaden their worldview, promoting a campus culture that values diversity and global awareness.
If the University wants to develop comprehensive language majors and minors, the goal should extend beyond teaching linguistic proficiency to fostering a rich understanding of the culture that produced the language. Language and culture are intrinsically linked, and a deep comprehension of one enhances appreciation of the other. To achieve this, the administration should require that students majoring or minoring in a foreign language spend at least one summer in a country that speaks the language.
This immersive experience is essential for students to gain firsthand cultural insights, which are critical for mastering the subtleties and context of the language. By experiencing everyday life, traditions and social norms, students can better understand idiomatic expressions, colloquialisms and cultural references often missed in classroom settings. This holistic approach to language education ensures that graduates are not only fluent in the language but also culturally competent. If we truly want to be leaders, we need programs that foster our ability to be productive and inclusive global citizens.
Seth Gabrielson is an Opinion Columnist who writes about the intersection of politics, science and philosophy, while studying physics, philosophy, aerospace, engineering and German. He can be reached at [email protected].