Language(s)

[BW510]

Hello Guys and Gals...I would be interested in hearing your takes on what Languages you see becoming more needed in LE in the future. I know Arabic is very hot right now...(Which I have a fair handle on) but I’m looking for a new challenge during my last 1.5 of college...I’ve been thinking Russian or maybe even Farsi but I would love to hear all opinions...Also, This time around I am considering going the Rosetta Stone route, Any experiences with these programs ? Thanks

[Kimble]

Hello Guys and Gals...I would be interested in hearing your takes on what Languages you see becoming more needed in LE in the future. I know Arabic is very hot right now...(Which I have a fair handle on) but I’m looking for a new challenge during my last 1.5 of college...I’ve been thinking Russian or maybe even Farsi but I would love to hear all opinions...Also, This time around I am considering going the Rosetta Stone route, Any experiences with these programs ? Thanks

While studying a language is always a plus, understand that an agency that needs translators needs people who are PROFICIENT in the language (not simply someone who took a few college courses in the language). I've met people who majored in a particular language (like my brother) who still were not fluent. My brother majored in Spanish, and while he is now fluent in the language, this did not happen until he was able to immerse himself in a culture where the language was used regularly. He spend his final year of college as a foreign exchange student in Mexico, and because of his immersion, he could use his language skill to qualify as a translator.

Farsi, Russian, Korean, Arabic, Hebrew, Spanish and many other languages would certainly be beneficial to a career in FLE and the application process, but you will be tested on your knowledge and proficiency of the language, and if you're not up to snuff with the fluency level they're looking for, it really won't be of any benefit to you in the application process.

[Nole795]

Ros is correct. You need proficiency in a language to give you an added bonus on your processing. If you want to go that route, then the best one to take is the culture in your area. If you live near a Korean neighborhood, and your interested, then learn Korean. That way you can use it and submerge yourself in the lingo and customs that come with every culture.

Good luck.

[Dalice]

I am going to go with the tried and true Spanish. No matter where you live, there seems to be some Spanish speakers nearby.