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Why learning a language matters

Being able to speak multiple languages isn't just impressive - it could help you make connections and open doors to new opportunities. Whether you're dreaming of backpacking around the world, volunteering in far-flung places, landing your dream job, or wanting to understand your favourite K-Pop lyrics, languages are the key. Read on to find out why learning a language matters.

 

The world is your workplace 

 

Gone are the days when careers were confined to your home town or country. Today's job market is global, and employers are looking for people who can bridge cultural gaps and communicate across borders.

 

Think about it like this: every language you learn essentially doubles your job prospects.

Companies are expanding internationally faster than ever, and they need people who can navigate different cultures and languages. Everyone wants team members who can speak to customers, partners, and colleagues in their native tongue.

 

There are lots of exciting career paths where knowing multiple languages can take you:

  • You could be negotiating deals as a business broker in Tokyo while living in London.

  • You might be a journalist reporting on breaking news from Paris or interviewing world leaders in their native language.

  • You could even run a luxury hotel in Barcelona or guide adventure tours through South America.

Even in fields you might not expect, languages can be extra valuable:

  • Healthcare professionals who speak multiple languages are highly sought after in diverse communities.

  • Technology companies need people who can localise software and apps for different markets.

  • Environmental scientists often collaborate on global climate projects that require seamless international communication.

Even if you don't want to travel, knowing other languages could make you eligible for more jobs at home, from business and health care to social services and education.

 

Languages exercise your brain like nothing else 

 

Need another reason to consider languages as an option? Learning languages literally rewires your brain for the better. Research shows that multilingual people are mental athletes - they're often excellent at multitasking, problem-solving, and thinking creatively.

When you switch between languages, you're giving your brain an incredible workout that can boost academic performance, improve your memory, sharpen your focus, and even delay cognitive decline later in life.

 

Plus, learning a new language actually makes you better at communicating in your native language too. It forces you to think about how we express ideas - you'll understand grammar more deeply, expand your vocabulary, and be able to express yourself better.

 

Your passport to authentic experiences 

 

"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart."

Nelson Mandela

 

There's something special about connecting with people in their own language. Sure, you can travel with Google Translate, but imagine actually chatting with a street vendor in Vietnam about the best local food, or talking about football with new mates in Buenos Aires.

 

Languages don't just help you get by when travelling - they could even unlock experiences that many tourists never see. You might discover hidden gems recommended by locals, understand cultural jokes and references, and form genuine friendships that continue long after you've returned home.

 

Stand out in the university crowd 

 

Universities love students who speak multiple languages because it shows intellectual curiosity, cultural awareness, and dedication. Many courses now include components (such as study abroad programmes or international internships) where language skills are essential.

 

Here in Australia, some universities apply adjustment factors for studying a language in high school - this can give your Selection Rank a boost and help you receive an offer to your dream course.

 

Some of the world's top universities offer entire degrees taught in other languages, opening up educational opportunities that monolingual students simply can't access. Imagine studying art history in Florence, international relations in Geneva, or marine biology in Costa Rica.

 

Technology hasn't replaced human connection 

 

"But can't I just use translation apps?"

 

Sure, technology is amazing, but it can't replace genuine human connection. Translation apps miss cultural nuances, struggle with context, and definitely can't help you build real relationships.

 

When you speak someone's language, you're showing respect for their culture and making an effort to meet them halfway. This creates trust and connection that no app can replicate. In business, this can sometimes even mean the difference between closing a deal and losing it to a competitor.

 

Small steps, huge rewards 

 

The best thing about language learning is that you don't need to be fluent to see the benefits. Even basic conversational skills can set you apart in job applications, make your travels more enriching, and boost your brain power.

 

Start with a language that excites you, whether it's the melodic sounds of Italian, the precision of German, or the rising importance of Mandarin in global business. Choose something that sparks your curiosity, because passion is the best teacher.

 

Modern language learning involves more than just grammar drills - many classes are interactive, cultural, and fun. You could watch films, cook traditional foods, celebrate festivals, and connect with native speakers online.

 

Ready to start learning? 

 

40% of the world’s population is mono-lingual, meaning if you start learning another language, you'll have an advantage over 3.28 billion other people on the planet.

 

Whether you end up using your language skills to land an amazing job, make lifelong friendships, or simply enjoy movies and TV without subtitles, you'll never regret expanding your horizons. So why not give it a go?

 

You can find more information about study pathways and career opportunities on our website here.

Learning your way: Study tips inspired by First Nations knowledge systems

When it comes to studying, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. For thousands of years, First Nations peoples have relied on deep knowledge systems built around storytelling, careful observation, and a strong connection to Country. These ways of learning can inspire and improve the way we all study — so here are three study tips inspired by First Nations ways of knowing to help you thrive at school.

 

Study through storytelling 

 

First Nations cultures have passed down knowledge for generations using stories. Stories are a powerful way to remember information because they help you make personal connections.

 

When you're studying something new — like a science concept or a historical event — make up a story to explain it. Imagine characters, places, or real-life examples. Not only will you understand the material more deeply, but you'll also remember it for longer.

 

And remember, stories don't always have to be linear (simply going from the start to the end). Sometimes they're more complicated with intricate connections and patterns. Here's an example of a non-linear story if you want to see what we mean.

 

Think of it like this: if you're learning about photosynthesis, don't just memorise the chemical equation. Create a story about a plant family who needs sunlight for breakfast, water for lunch, and carbon dioxide for dinner. Give them personalities and imagine their daily routine. Think about how they are connected to the environment - what do they need and what do they give in return?

 

Observe and learn from your surroundings 

 

A lot of First Nations knowledge is built from careful observations, from noticing changes in the environment to the behaviour of animals and other people and the cycles of nature. Those skills of paying close attention and making connections could be helpful for your studies too.

 

Instead of checking your phone on your break, spend more time outside in nature. Look around you with purpose and take notice of the small details - how the light changes through the day, the patterns in the clouds, or the way birds move.

This isn't just about getting fresh air (though that helps too). By training your mind to notice what’s going on around you, you’re also training it to concentrate on what matters most: you're strengthening the same mental muscles you use to analyse things or solve problems.

 

Plus, a quick break outside keeps you feeling refreshed so you can go back to your desk with a clear, focused mind.

 

Connect learning to Country 

 

Connection to Country is at the heart of many First Nations cultures. It's not just about the physical landscape - it's also about understanding your place in the world and the connections around you.

 

Studying might feel more meaningful when you see its connection to your life and community. So whenever you're tackling a new topic, ask yourself: how could this knowledge help me give back to my community? Whether it's learning to design websites for local cultural programs or studying the environment to protect an endangered species, making this connection can help you stay motivated.

 

You can also use community connections when researching a topic - talk with people who have lived experience or learn from First Nations knowledge keepers.

 

When you use these strategies, studying becomes more than homework. It becomes a way to grow your skills, connect to the world around you, and contribute to your community, all at the same time.

 

Why First Nations ways of knowing can improve everyone's study 

 

First Nations knowledge systems highlight the importance of personal connections, creativity, and awareness of the world around you. These aren't just nice ideas - they're practical strategies that could make your learning more effective.

 

Research shows that when we connect new information to stories, emotions, and real-world applications, we remember it better and understand it more deeply. The observation skills developed through mindful awareness of your environment improve your ability to notice patterns and details in your school work. And when you see the purpose behind your learning, you're naturally more motivated to stick with it, even when things get challenging.

 

You can also easily link these strategies to other study methods that might work for you, such as:

Ready to give it a go? 

 

With these simple study tips inspired by First Nations ways of knowing, you could make learning more meaningful (and more enjoyable too). You might even find that studying becomes less of a chore and more of an adventure that connects you to the world around you.

 

You can find more study tips on our website - or if you're specifically looking for First Nations resources, you'll find them here.