Today, I want to share some insights about Foreign Language learning, particularly second foreign languages. While I’ve often stressed the importance of treating core subjects like English, Math, Social Studies, and Humanities as rigorous and challenging fields of study, this focus may inadvertently cause Foreign Languages to be overlooked. However, learning a foreign language is just as crucial and requires a thoughtful approach to maximize its benefits.

Before diving into specific strategies, let’s take a moment to review the foreign language requirements at various universities. Understanding these expectations can provide valuable context for why studying a foreign language should be an integral part of your academic journey.

Harvard University

• Recommends studying one language for four years.

Stanford University

• States that it is beneficial to study a second foreign language for three or more years.

Massachusets Institute of Technology

• Requires two years of foreign language study.

Princeton University

• Recommends studying one language for four years.

Yale University

• Although not mandatory, they recommend studying a foreign language every year.

Duke University

• Suggests studying a second foreign language for more than three years.

Brown University

• Recommends studying a foreign language for 3-4 years.

Johns Hopkins University

• Though not required, recommends studying a second foreign language for four years.

Northwestern University

• Recommends at least two years of foreign language study.

Cornell University

• Varies by school, but for the College of Arts and Sciences, it is recommended to take more than three semesters of one foreign language.

The University of Chicago

• Recommends studying a foreign language for 2-3 years.

Dartmouth College

• Recommends studying one foreign language for three years.

Conclusion

As shown in the examples above, many universities explicitly highlight the importance of Foreign Languages. If foreign languages were insignificant, they wouldn’t feature so prominently on these universities’ official websites. Clearly, that is not the case.

The fact that numerous universities include foreign language requirements underscores their recognition of the value of studying a Foreign Language—specifically, a language other than English or one’s native tongue. For instance, when Harvard University’s Affirmative Action policy was overturned, the ruling revealed the institution's strong emphasis on diversity. This diversity extends beyond racial identity to include academic interests, belief systems, political viewpoints, geographic origins, family backgrounds, and racial identities, reflecting a comprehensive appreciation of diversity from multiple perspectives.

From this perspective, studying a Foreign Language becomes more than simply acquiring linguistic skills; it involves immersing yourself in the culture behind the language. Understanding and engaging with a language’s cultural context fosters inclusivity and broadens your worldview.

American universities, as culturally rich and diverse institutions, bring together students from a variety of backgrounds. In these environments, openness to diversity is not just valued—it is essential.

Here’s a practical suggestion: try linking your Foreign Language studies to volunteer activities.

Many volunteer opportunities involve tutoring younger students, and often, these activities focus on assisting students from similar cultural or linguistic backgrounds, such as Korean students helping other Korean students. While such efforts are undoubtedly meaningful, demonstrating cultural inclusivity by engaging with students from different cultural backgrounds can make an even stronger impact.

For instance, instead of volunteering solely within your own cultural community, you could work with students from Hispanic, Arab, or Native American backgrounds in the U.S. In doing so, you not only highlight your teaching abilities but also your willingness to embrace and connect with diverse cultures.

When planning your volunteer work, consider targeting students from various cultural backgrounds. For example, a Korean student choosing Korean as their second foreign language is fine in terms of linguistic proficiency, but it may fall short in demonstrating inclusivity. Opting to study languages such as French, Latin, or Spanish and connecting your volunteer work to those languages can better showcase your commitment to cultural diversity.

While it may be challenging, selecting a language from a third culture and pairing it with meaningful volunteer activities can significantly enhance your competitiveness as an applicant. I’ll wrap up today’s post with this encouragement.

Today, I discussed the foreign language requirements at various universities and shared insights on combining language studies with volunteer work. I hope you found this information useful. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to A-One Institute.

Thank you!