Language

Learning a Third Language

Asif Imran

"I do not even know a second language; knowing a third language is out of question!” Some of us may have this concern, but I guess most of us are familiar with English as a second language. The extent to which English is being used in our daily lives, it is no longer difficult to have a good grasp on this International language.

So, what is the benefit of learning a third language? Well, in short, it simply enriches your language power. Those willing to migrate to Canada must have working knowledge of French for a better living. Knowing Spanish adds to your portfolio and helps you a lot when you move to the US (as you will find a lot of Spanish speaking people over there, though they are equally proficient in English).

	Nowadays, learning languages have become so easy with all these 'Rosetta Stone' and other software of its kind easily available in the market. You can also learn online, just Google it! Subscriptions to many websites will get you lessons via e-mail. All you have to do is spend some time on the internet, find an appropriate website or portal that has the materials you need, voila!
Photo: Kazi Tahsin Agag Apurbo

East Asian languages are becoming more and more popular as their economies are booming. Chinese, Korean, and Japanese are notably the three most useful languages to learn if you are planning to move to any of these three countries for studying or doing business. However bad their economies may be at this time, Western European countries like Spain, Italy, Germany and France have been places of attraction for many for a living.

Learning the language of these countries before going there would be a great idea. You will not have to look into the dictionary of 'English to Italian' or 'Bengali to French' every time you need to speak something basic. You will feel more at home when you know what the signposts, signboards and directions are saying. It really does make you comfortable in a foreign land where English is not widely spoken or understood.

The advantage of learning a third language for higher studies simply means saving money in the very first place. You will find many seats of academic excellence where there are simultaneous options for the same course in the native language and in English, the latter being much more expensive while learning in the local language may not even cost you!

Open the newspapers and online job portals and you will not run short of advertisements looking for interpreters for different languages. The compensation structures are handsome considering the effort one needs to put in. If you perform well, you might get lucky with frequent overseas tours with your bosses!

Nowadays, learning languages has become so easy with 'Rosetta Stone' and other softwares. You can also learn online, just Google it! Subscriptions to many websites will get you lessons via e-mail. All you have to do is spend some time on the internet, find an appropriate website or portal that has the materials you need, voila! You either download the contents (only if it allows) or subscribe to their e-mail learning list. So, enjoy learning a third language and stay updated with the changing world.

(The author is the Assistant Registrar at University of Asia Pacific, UAP.)