Learning a new language may be the last thing on our minds as we juggle the many responsibilities of being an engineering student. However, I have found that knowing a foreign language has proven to be very beneficial in terms of information retention (which helps a lot for exams) as well as in our professional lives.
At EIT InnoEnergy Master School, we are also immersed in different cultures while studying which only makes it that much more important for me. In my case, I decided to take the opportunity to learn Portuguese during my first year of the Master’s in Energy Storage at IST in Lisbon. This is something I would have never imagined doing and yet it is filling me with joy! So, here are five benefits of learning a foreign language during your studies. I hope this triggers you to explore a new language as your master’s with EIT InnoEnergy.
Boosts brain function
Studying a foreign language is a great way to exercise the brain muscles and reduce cognitive failure. Learning an additional language have been shown to stimulate the brain as the brain functions to keep track of all the new information and retain it. Subsequently, it has been shown to increase the white and grey matter of the brain which is a sign of a healthy brain (thus reducing risks of developing cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia). In addition, it improves our focus and attention span which can help us memorise and retain information more effectively [1].
Enhances career versatility
As the job market becomes more competitive, one of the factors that can help us stand out is knowing a foreign language. Being multilingual has been shown to improve employability as employers consider multilingual individuals to be proficient in communication and problem-solving skills.
Increases creativity
Learning a new language helps in opening our eyes to new perspectives as it will help us to be more aware of the place that we live in. We will start to appreciate and take interest in the culture that we’ve integrated with as a result!
In my case, I was presented with an opportunity to sign up for an A1 level Portuguese language course at Instituto Superior Tecnico in Portugal. Learning this language helped me to understand the Portuguese culture and people a lot better. It also helped me to settle in much easier, from navigating metro stations, cafes, supermarkets, or any place in general. All the programmes offered by EIT InnoEnergy Master’s School are taught completely in English, but I just couldn’t pass this extra-curricular opportunity to connect and experience the local culture!
Improves listening skills
Another advantage is that as we try to learn a new language, apart from improving our attention span, we will also learn to improve our listening skills as we try to grasp what’s being said. This skill often translates to other areas of life such as academia and even in our professional lives. Listening more will enable us to be more efficient in our work. From understanding the presented information better to becoming more approachable to others [2].
Develops confidence and self-esteem
Through the art of learning a new language, we are prone to making many mistakes. This will just aid us in boosting our confidence as we slowly break out of our comfort zone and learn to be comfortable in such situations. Don’t be shy! Once we start interacting with the locals, we’ll feel a sense of achievement which is an instant mood booster as well.
A lifelong process
To conclude, learning a new language has shown to have many benefits both personally and socially. Indeed, it’s always hard to take the first step and commit to what seems like a lifelong process, but the benefits far outweigh the other minor inconveniences that may be bothering us.
The whole experience of learning a foreign language should be fun and should not seem monotonous. The best way to do that is to implement different styles of learning. I try spending an entire day just talking in the language or interacting with the native speakers (which we have plenty at EIT InnoEnergy Master School)! However, this is just the beginning and the key that opens the door to many new unforgettable experiences and opportunities!
By Sharon Santhosh, EIT InnoEnergy Master’s in Energy Storage Student