Spanish (minor)
There are countless reasons to learn a second language. Learning a new language enhances everything we do by providing a new perspective on the world and challenging us to think critically about the way we describe our own experiences. Speaking more than one language allows us to build new connections, opens new doors professionally and personally, and helps us better understand cultures that may be vastly different from our own.
Spanish is the official language of 21 countries around the world and is the second most spoken native language globally. By minoring in Spanish, you will add a valuable skill to your resume and leave college a more informed and aware global citizen.
What You'll Study
The Lees-McRae Spanish program introduces students to both the Spanish language and the places, people, and cultures that make up the Spanish-speaking world. You will learn how to read, write, understand, and speak Spanish. In addition to the required Spanish language classes and internship, you can round out your minor with courses like Spanish for the Professions, Spanish and Latin American Film, Spanish for Social Justice, and Toltec Wisdom Literature.
Beyond the Classroom
Internships and research projects can be done at home and abroad. Study abroad opportunities are always in the works for students interested in taking that next step and there are many opportunities provided through Lees-McRae, other universities, and third-party providers. Your Spanish teacher can also put you into contact with international universities that are able to transfer credits back to Lees-McRae.
After Graduation
Speaking a second language is an asset in any potential profession. The Spanish minor pairs well with any major to increase your employability and qualify you for new opportunities. For example, knowing Spanish as a Wildlife Biology major can help you work and research in countries throughout the Americas. In the education field, bilingual teachers earn between 5% and 20% more on average than teachers who only speak English.
In addition to the tangible benefits of the ability to operate in a second language, the critical thinking and analytical skills obtained by studying a new language are applicable to the problem-solving skills employers are looking for in new hires.