I love learning foreign languages, now what can I do with it?

The LAN 292, Careers in Foreign Languages class of spring 2009 put together the following power point presentations on 4 general topics and several sub-topics. It is amazing how knowledge of a second language can expand your career opportunities!

Tourism:

Find your dream job by combining your passion for foreign languages with your love of travel! Career opportunities include travel agencies, hospitatlity, or even being a nanny! The travel industry provides career options for working within the United States or on an international level, and there is so much variety that you are sure to never get bored with a job. Read more about tourism, travel, and foreign languages. Ever thought about being a tour guide? Learn about using your foreign language skills in the hospitality industry.

International Business:

If you have ever considered entering the business world, you will find endless opportunites to use your foreign language skills on a domestic or international level. Did you know that your daily dose of Starbucks is a product of one of the top international businesses, with stores in over 40 countries? Learn about how you can apply your knowledge of foreign languages on an international level. Some of the largest areas of opportunity for people who speak a second language are in the financial and legal fields. Read interviews with three people who use their foreign language skills on a daily basis in the business world.

Government:

The government is always in need of people who are able to communicate in multiple languages. Translators and interpreters are always in high demand, and working for the government provides the opportunity to work within the U.S. or abroad! Learn more about the unique requirements that set government translators apart from the rest. Working in an embassy is an excellent and exciting way to use your foreign language abilities, and there are even opportunities for current students! Find out more about working in a United States Embassy. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the National Clandestine Service (NCS) offer training to turn your bilingual abilities into exciting careers such as Open Source Officers or Foreign Language Instructors. Learn more about working for the CIA or NCS.

Teachers, Translators, Interpreters:

Those who wish to use their language abilities in the field of translation or interpretation can choose between full-time or freelance employment. Working as a medical interpreter is a wonderful way to apply your skills and help others. View a power point on information for medical interpretation. You may have already considered teaching as a career that would utilize your knowledge of a second language, but did you ever consider living abroad and teaching English as a second language? You can travel to nearly any country and no certification is required! Read more about teaching English while living in another country.

You should make it a point now to seek advice on career planning from the career services on campus. Contact Suzy Baker-Bachman. The Counseling and Career Services’s Career Guide provides information on interest and skill inventories, job hunter’s checklist, sample letters , résumés and suggestions for successful interviewing.