Whether you take one year of a foreign language or five, the journey of learning a foreign language is transformative. It has the power to shape our experiences, forge new friendships, and pave the way for our futures.

Former O’Gorman student Jimmy Ryckman’s story is a testament to this. His immersion in a foreign language beyond school requirements not only led to academic success, but also to personal growth and self-discovery. It inspired him to explore new cultures, make new friends, and even spend a summer in Germany. 

Ryckman graduated from O’Gorman in 2022, after taking five years of German classes. Not only did he participate in the class, but he also participated in the German exchange program as a freshman and a senior. His journey with the German language not only enriched his academic profile but also significantly broadened his cultural understanding and personal growth.

Thanks to his experiences through the foreign language program at O’Gorman, he was allowed to spend the summer in Germany to assist a professor at a university in Germany, a rare and rewarding experience. Ryckman currently attends Iowa State University and is working towards a degree in Engineering and German. 

Learning a new language is a complex yet rewarding endeavor that demands commitment and perseverance. While some individuals may possess a natural aptitude for language acquisition, the key to achieving proficiency lies in dedicating substantial time and effort beyond mere academic requirements. Anika Rodig, a German teacher at O’Gorman High School, emphasizes the significance of long-term language commitment, noting that “ [her] students have moved on to being able to use their language skills in their various areas of study and employment.”

Rodig believes that practical applications of multilingualism in today’s world are too abundant to ignore; language proficiency can enhance career prospects in international business, where the ability to negotiate in multiple languages can be a game-changer, or in diplomacy, where understanding the nuances of different languages can be crucial. Moreover, the cultural, cognitive, social, and economic advantages of multilingualism are substantial. It fosters an appreciation for diverse traditions, facilitates cross-cultural empathy, and breaks down barriers between communities.

Multilingualism is critical in preserving cultural heritage and linguistic diversity as well. By embracing and utilizing multiple languages, individuals can uphold their unique identities and ensure the transmission of traditions across generations. From a cognitive standpoint, multilingualism not only enhances problem-solving abilities, memory retention, and multitasking skills, but also stimulates intellectual growth, improving executive function and fostering cognitive flexibility.

Multilingualism has vast academic benefits, as it provides access to a broader range of educational resources and opportunities for international study. Proficiency in multiple languages enriches the academic experience. It facilitates communication and networking in a globalized environment, fostering inclusivity and understanding across linguistic communities.

While the benefits of multilingualism are abundant and wide-ranging, it is evident that fluency in a language cannot be achieved within a limited timeframe. To fully harness the advantages of multilingualism like Ryckman, individuals must surpass mandated language requirements and embrace a lifelong commitment to language learning. Learning a new language is a complex yet rewarding endeavor that demands responsibility and perseverance, but why wouldn’t you give yourself that advantage?