so what are you planning to do with languages?

Throughout my time at university I have been told that studying languages opens your opportunities up to working all over the world, as if it really becomes your oyster. For a little while I believed this was true; that is until I started looking at graduate jobs. The job market for graduates is so competitive, meaning that anything you have in your arsenal to help you stand out should be a godsend, right?

This being said, it is very rare that jobs are advertised specifically requesting additional languages in areas other than teaching, translation or interpreting. I find it astonishing how many jobs I have seen located in France or Spain (i.e Paris, Madrid or Barcelona) written entirely in English, with no mention at all of the requirement to speak the language of its location.

Frankly, it makes me worry about the value of my degree within the next few years. Particularly because I simply cannot comprehend the possibility of either teaching (I have no patience at all) or translating (you need a masters in translation and interpreting in order to work in top-level positions).

I really enjoy using languages to meet new people and in everyday situations. It's when all these years of learning make it worth the tears and stress. I began to love Spanish again once I was able to make real friends and express myself around them in a way that's still me. Therefore, I dream of a position where I can use my French or Spanish in the workplace like any other native, without it being my only skill to bring to the table.

Of course, this all depends on the level of importance placed upon additional language skills in a business. The real issue is deciphering whether they're still a key asset in securing a job or just an added bonus for employers.

With native English becoming one of the most important languages used in the business world, it is creating a certain amount of self-doubt about where this may leave me in the fierce race for a graduate job, even for one working abroad. Might I be further along in the queue or waiting at the back with all the English-only speakers? Only time will tell.

Do you study languages? What do you plan to do with them in your career? Thanks for reading!

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