Clara Grojean
Have you ever dreamed of going to an EYP session in a far away country but you were scared it would be awkward and uncomfortable?If not knowing a country and its culture has stopped you from going abroad before, I have a solution for you! You just need to learn its language! Of course, I’m not saying you should become a polyglot and learn the 6,012 languages that are spoken on our planet but you should know why it could be worth your while. Here are three reasons to consider:
1. It makes you smarter.
Because of the plasticity of your brain, whenever you learn something new, you develop more and more synapsis. In other words, you give your brain a boost, the information travels faster through your brain! Also, studies show that people who speak several languages are less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Learning and speaking several languages keeps your brain young.
2. The whole world is within your reach.
Being able to speak several languages is a real asset nowadays. When you speak a foreign tongue you can communicate with anyone in the world, with the help of the internet. Moreover, having learned a third or fourth language will be important for your future employment prospects. It can really make your CV stand out (and it’s never too soon to start thinking about a 9-5 job, paying taxes and actual responsibilities …).
3. It’s the best way to discover a new culture.
With a new language comes a whole new cultural world. You can discover a new gastronomy, meet new people, witness foreign architecture, landscapes, music, and so much more! You can be sure that knowing the culture and the language of a country you want to travel to are of great help. You’ll be able to form long-lasting, cross-cultural friendships and your travel experience will be completely transformed! Also, think of the opportunities within EYP to interact with young like-minded individuals from across the continent.
So which one will you choose?