Five reasons to say “oui” to learning a second language

In today’s interconnected world, speaking a second language is a valuable skill that will enrich your personal and professional life. Even if you’re an absolute beginner or can’t remember a single verb conjugation from high school French class, it’s never too late to learn new language skills. 

At Western Continuing Studies, we make it easy to take the first steps towards proficiency in French and Spanish. 

After a two-year pivot to online learning, we’re excited to welcome French learners back to the classroom at the new home of Western Continuing Studies, located at Western University’s Discovery Park. Our fall and winter offerings include French: The Fast Track for people looking to brush up their language skills, as well as French: The Basics Part I and Part II for people with no knowledge of the language, or who may have forgotten what they have previously learned. 

Spanish: The Basics is also back, offered as a 20-hour online program with real-time learning. 

With a focus on communicating effectively in everyday situations, language classes at Western Continuing Studies are designed to build your skills and confidence so you can put your learning to use at home, and abroad. 

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Here are five great reasons to say "oui" or "sí" to learning a second language.

Advance your career 

It’s no secret that speaking French, Canada’s other official language, can give you a significant competitive advantage in the workplace. And, in some jobs, it’s mandatory. 

“I hear from many people that they are here to learn French because they would like to get a promotion, or they work for the government,” says Western Continuing Studies French instructor, Veranika Barysevich. 

Not only will speaking French help get your resume to the top of the pile, it can help you earn more money, too. In today’s job market, bilingual candidates can command salaries that are up to 30% higher than their English-only counterparts. 

Barysevich makes learning fun by encouraging students to speak as much as possible. “By the end of the first class, everyone will be able to introduce themselves in French,” she says. “Once they start, people enjoy the course and keep building on what they’ve learned.” 

Travel like a local 

Having a basic command of a second language can make all the difference to your travel plans, making it easier to explore beyond the tourist zones and to connect with locals on a whole new level.

“Many of my students are people who want to travel to the Caribbean, South and Central America, or Spain in the summer or when they retire,” says Edgar Yanez, who teaches Spanish at Western Continuing Studies. Others work in law enforcement, or other community organizations, and want to be able to communicate better with Canada’s growing Hispanic community. 

“I love teaching Spanish, because it’s my language and my culture,” says Yanez. “It’s an opportunity for me to share Hispanic traditions and culture. We listen to music, and learn about important authors and artists. Learning another language is a door that opens so many possibilities.”

Enrich your perspective

Exploring a new language can give you a new perspective on life, says Western Continuing Studies Language Program Coordinator, Sandra Bardwell. 

“Finding a better job or travelling are great benefits of learning a second language,” she notes. “But for me, the greatest benefit is opening up your mind to what other people experience around the world.

You’re not just learning vocabulary and grammar; you’re learning about the people who speak that language in ways that you might not have understood before.” 

Learning how to speak another language can also help people better understand the challenges faced by new Canadians adjusting to life in a new language and culture, she says. 

Boost your brain 

Some people say that learning a new language makes their head hurt. That may be because the effort is actually good for the brain. 

“People who speak a second language may have less incidence of dementia,” says Barysevich. They also have better listening skills, improved memory, and better concentration than their monolingual peers. 

Get out of your comfort zone

Learning a new language means learning how to get comfortable making mistakes in front of others. “You’re pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone and building your confidence,” says Bardwell.

While it might seem intimidating at first, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you are able to introduce yourself, order a meal, or converse with someone in their native language is well worth the effort. “Being able to speak two languages is an absolutely incredible feeling,” Barysevich says. 

Nicole Laidler is a freelance reporter, copywriter and content creator, serving clients in London, Toronto and throughout Southwestern Ontario. She helps people grow their success, one word at a time.