German

Learning German can open up opportunities to travel, work and study in Germany and freelance writing in strict academic disciplines. Among the reasons to learn German are its close similarity to English and its status as a major world language. German is the most widely spoken first language in the European Union, with over 100 million speakers.

Germany has the largest economy in Europe and is a leading exporter of machinery, vehicles, chemicals pharmaceuticals, software engineering and electronic products. Many of the major international corporations have their headquarters in Germany. This provides plenty of opportunities for those who know German.

Studying German gives you access to a wide range of high-quality academic programs offered in Germany. Many of these programs are taught in English, but a good knowledge of German will give you an edge over other applicants. Moreover, being able to speak German can be a real asset during your studies, since you'll be able to interact with your fellow students and professors on a more personal level.

If you're looking for a challenge, learning German can certainly provide that. German is not an easy language to learn, but the effort is rewarded. German opens up a whole new world of literature, music, history and culture. It's a language that is both old and new, and learning it can be a very enriching experience.