Foreign Language as a Pathway to Impactful Careers

Group shot of Talledega College international students

Studying a foreign language is a fantastic opportunity to explore the cultures of the world. Not only do you gain incredibly valuable skills, but the ability to engage with the arts, media, and people of the cultures that speak that language. Regardless of the language you choose to specialize in, you’ll find it to be an impactful and fulfilling field of study — and one that can open many important doors.

Here’s a closer look at why foreign language studies are important, the careers you can pursue in the field, and how you can set yourself up for success in college and beyond.

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Why College Students of Color Should Major in a Foreign Language

Expanding Career Opportunities and Global Competitiveness

Studying a foreign language in college provides students of color with unique career advantages in an increasingly interconnected world. Language skills are highly valued by employers in fields such as international business, diplomacy, and social work, where multicultural competency is crucial.

For Black and Latinx students in particular, the addition of a second language can be a strategic asset, potentially setting them apart in competitive job markets and boosting their appeal to organizations looking for diverse and culturally aware talent. Bilingual skills also open doors to opportunities with international organizations, NGOs, and government agencies that prioritize diverse language capabilities to serve a global audience effectively.

Building Cultural Understanding and Broadening Perspectives

Learning another language allows students to experience different cultural perspectives, an essential skill for anyone looking to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. By studying a language, students gain insights into different traditions, histories, and social dynamics, fostering empathy and an ability to relate to others on a deeper level.

For students of color, especially those with cultural ties to non-English-speaking regions, learning the language can strengthen connections to their heritage and communities. This process can provide a sense of empowerment, deepening their understanding of identity and enhancing their ability to navigate and appreciate both their culture and others.

Enhancing Cognitive Skills and Academic Success

Research indicates that learning a second language can improve cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, multitasking, and creative thinking. It can also make it easier to pick up additional languages, particularly those in the same language family. These cognitive benefits are crucial for academic success across disciplines and can give students of color an advantage in their studies. Bilingualism has even been linked to better mental agility and memory retention, skills that contribute to higher academic achievement and sustained intellectual growth.

Paving the Road to Graduate Degrees

Having good working knowledge of one or more foreign languages can also help you complete a graduate degree, especially if you want to become a college professor. Humanities Ph.D. programs, for example, often require you to pass two foreign-language reading comprehension exams in order to graduate. Having this proficiency allows you to do research using non-English sources.

Fostering Community Impact and Advocacy

Studying foreign languages can empower students of color to become advocates for their communities, both locally and internationally. Language skills enable students to bridge cultural divides, engage with diverse communities, and foster meaningful dialogues across different linguistic backgrounds. This capability is especially valuable in multicultural cities, where language barriers often impact access to essential services and opportunities for marginalized groups. By learning another language, students of color can play an active role in advocacy efforts, creating positive change and promoting a more inclusive society.

How to Get Started in the Foreign Language Field

If you’re considering an academic future in foreign language, it’s a good idea to start identifying the language(s) you would like to study and work with. This can be a language that is high in demand, or one that is personally interesting or important to you. Start taking classes in that language if they are available at your high school. Engaging with the language in a structured setting will provide a solid foundation for future study, and will help you get a taste for foreign language learning.

Preparation goes beyond the classroom, too. You can engage with the language of your choice by immersing yourself in it. Try watching films, listening to music, and reading books or newspapers in your target language. This can enhance your understanding of not just the language, but the culture as well. You should also consider joining or starting a language club at your school, or participating in language immersion camps or language learning programs over the summer.

Careers in Foreign Languages

One of the great benefits of a degree in a foreign language is its flexibility. Because communication is integral to so many careers, knowledge of a foreign language easily integrates into a number of skill sets in nearly any industry. However, there are a few careers tailored specifically to foreign languages. These include:

Interpreter or translator. Interpreters serve as a go-between for individuals who do not speak the same language. Similarly, translators assess written works and translate between two or more languages. These professionals can work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, courtrooms, major business conference centers, and more.
Teacher or professor. Foreign language competency is a crucial skill that is often taught in schools and universities. Therefore, there will always be a demand for foreign language instructors. Demand will vary depending on where you teach and the popularity of the language, but high schools and colleges will be in need of your services.
Diplomat. To engage effectively with other countries, you must speak their language. Diplomats work in many levels of United States policy interactions with foreign countries, and having foreign language skills is often necessary for their work. While competitive, federal government employment also tends to be a stable line of work, and one where representation and diversity are essential.

HBCUs Can Help You Master a Foreign Language

Given the recent Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action in college admissions, more Black students are likely to turn to HBCUs for their education. In response, these institutions will do everything they can to meet increased student demand. HBCUs help more students earn college degrees, compete successfully for well-paying jobs in competitive career fields, improve workforce diversity, and increase upward economic mobility.

People of all ages, races, and life paths can help to improve diversity in foreign language disciplines by supporting scholarships and other forms of funding for HBCUs with related programs. You can make a difference in the lives of foreign language students in one easy step by making a donation today.

Want to learn more about this possible career path and college major? Have questions about which UNCF colleges and universities offer degrees in foreign languages? Looking for help with financing this degree?

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How to Prepare for Success

Success in foreign language studies requires you to be familiar with the fundamentals of language, including grammar, vocabulary, and syntax. Knowledge of other cultures will be helpful as well. Finally, maintaining a consistent study routine, staying motivated, and seeking help when needed — either from professors or language tutors — will support continued progress.

Remember, language acquisition is a gradual process that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to embrace new cultures and perspectives.

UNCF Schools to Consider

These top-ranking UNCF-member schools offer programs for students wishing to study a foreign language, including:

Professional Organizations

There are many organizations in various foreign languages that advocate and promote language skills and their professions. A sample list includes:

In addition, there are organizations that advocate for specific languages including:

Scholarships Available

There’s no better way to start on your path to a successful career in foreign language than with a solid financial foundation. Fortunately, many scholarships are available through UNCF, including some specifically for foreign language majors. Keep an eye on the UNCF website for current scholarship opportunities and announcements.

Search for specific scholarships and view those that are currently accepting applications here! Students should also check with each college or university to see if there are additional scholarships available to study foreign language.

As you explore your options, be sure to use our guide to applying for scholarships and grants. You can also receive guidance by submitting a major interest form if you are interested in a career in foreign language. Submit the form on our website to get started. And follow us on UNCF social media channels to receive notifications about our scholarships and member HBCUs. Reach out today!

You can also show your support for students pursuing careers and furthering equity in foreign language education by making a contribution to UNCF member schools. Education is the greatest tool we have in creating a just and equitable society in which economic mobility is available to all. Help us achieve this future by donating today!