Learning a new language is like having a superpower; you can use it for the greater good. It is a fun and enjoyable experience that can even help a person have an advantage when applying to college. 

   According to an article by HuffPost, “Students who learn a foreign language out-score their non-foreign language learning peers in the verbal and math sections of standardized tests, particularly in the area of problem-solving,” As a bilingual student, I feel that this is true as I retain information very easily and I am good at finding solutions to the tasks given to me. Many of my peers have even asked me how exactly I come up with so many creative ideas when working on group projects. I simply shrug my shoulders and say, “Well, it might be the bilingualism in me!” Being bilingual has really given me an opportunity to excel academically in many ways.  

   Although it may seem that students are being pressured into taking a language, one may come to find that it can be really fun. This year will be my second year taking French. The teachers here at RMHS check in on everyone individually to make sure that everyone understands what is going on and that any questions are answered as we learn pronunciation and grammar. This is especially important in French, as French is not always easy. They really make it a fun and enjoyable experience by including the culture of the language in the lesson plans and fun activities that keep us engaged. 

     “[. . .] the student studying for four years has a genuine interest in knowledge and education, not just in fulfilling minimum foreign language requirements,” said Matthew Potts, Admissions Counselor for the University of Notre Dame. When applying for colleges, the number one thing that students think about is how to stand out from their peers. Although not everyone may want to go to such a selective college such as Notre Dame, by taking 4 years of a language in high school, you are sure to stand out from the rest when applying to the college of your dreams. 

   So, when choosing courses for the following year, remember what is going to make a positive change in your life. What specific classes will give you hidden powers you never knew you had? Give a language a try and see what new abilities you can uncover.