By Tyler Hartl ’24, staff writer

One unique challenge that many students at LVC will face during their undergraduate pursuits is learning a new language.

Due to LVC’s commitment to formative experiences, students must participate in two language and culture classes or an equivalent of said courses.

Students may choose German, French or Spanish as languages of choice. All offer an opportunity to build upon one’s undergraduate studies in the form of concentrations or majors.

As many learn, communicating and developing skills in a foreign language is immensely difficult. However, it is a challenge that may prove enormously beneficial for students and LVC as a whole.

One core aspect of LVC’s mission statement is its commitment to fostering global citizenship. This commitment is accomplished through the development of the skill referred to as intercultural competence. Being open-minded to communicate across cultural barriers is a distinct skill that learning a language aids.

As students begin to take language courses, they may find themselves growing more adaptable than before. Learning a new language can lead to heightened familiarity with one’s own language, greater creativity, enhanced memory and problem-solving ability—all in addition to many more student benefits.

Exposure to a new culture through language may be the necessary experience to unlock career opportunities. Through business, politics and study abroad, there are numerous avenues where students can further utilize and reap the benefits of their language and cultural studies.