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The significance of learning Chinese as an international language can’t be underestimated in the present globalized world. As the world is becoming progressively interconnected, learning the Chinese language opens up plenty of opportunities for students in different fields. As a Nanjing University alumnus, I learned the true importance and meaning of learning the Chinese language.
As a graduate of Nanjing College, I had the determination to learn the Chinese language to expand my prospects in my career and gain a deeper understanding of China’s culture. Reflecting on my experience, below are the highlights of the significance of learning Chinese as an international language.
To begin with, I must stress the many benefits that can emerge once an international student has acquired Chinese language proficiency. China being the world’s second-biggest economy has been known for offering quality education in the world. This has attracted many international students to seek their education in China so as build their presence in China and team up with Chinese students and teachers for more exposure and opportunities. This way, being able to communicate fluently in the Chinese language gave those who learned it an upper hand in their careers as it enhanced effective communication, discussion, and relationship building. I strongly attribute many international students’ success in careers to their fluency in speaking the Chinese language during their studies in China. Their fluency in the Chinese language enabled them to make solid relationships with the locals and various professionals.
Additionally, learning Chinese created many opportunities for many international students. China’s economy is on an upward trend and thus increasing demand for experts with Chinese language abilities across different areas. Finance, technology, the travel industry, and international relations are some of the sectors that sought people to bridge the gap between cultural and linguistic for China and other regions in the world. I noticed that having proficiency in Chinese opened up more opportunities for many as they could become translators, consultants, and liaisons among Chinese and global associations. I also found that having Chinese language proficiency altogether upgraded one’s career prospects allowing one to contribute genuinely in their professional endeavors.
Apart from the economic and career benefits, learning Chinese offers a passage to the rich and the various culture of China. China’s development can be attributed to a set of experiences spreading over many years, with immense scholarly, philosophical, and imaginative fortunes. For me, learning the Chinese language at Nanjing University allowed me to dive into old-style Chinese writing and gain a more profound appreciation for the Chinese lifestyle. It also empowered me to figure out customary texts, verses, and ways of thinking in their unique language, giving me novel experiences in Chinese culture and developing a cross-cultural understanding.
Another thing I discovered is that the Chinese language is a significant tool for building good relationships with others. For instance, learning Chinese allowed me to relate with local Chinese speakers on a more profound level, building more meaningful relationships and bonds. Language proficiency empowered international students to mingle with others on an additional individual and social level, enhancing intercultural exchange and fostering mutual understanding. I can attest that my ability to speak Chinese enabled me to build lasting relationships with students and other people from different backgrounds. Thus, widening my worldview and enriching my personal life.
Last but not least, learning Chinese has a strong impact on academics. China’s rising global influence has ignited increasing interest in Chinese studies and research. Capability in Chinese has created opportunities for researchers and specialists to get to a tremendous pool of information and assets in different fields, including history, legislative issues, financial matters, and humanism. Many international students’ proficiency in the Chinese language allowed them to hold in-depth research on various subjects related to China, giving them valuable insights and contributing to the academic dialogue.
Overall, the significance of learning Chinese as an international language could not be overstated. Drawing from my experience as a former student from Nanjing University, I can appreciate the economic, cultural, career, interpersonal, and academic benefits that an international student can get from learning the Chinese language. As the world turns out to be progressively interconnected, people who can communicate successfully in the Chinese language benefit in many ways. Whether one’s objectives are personal, professional, or academic, the capacity to speak Chinese opens one’s way to a world of opportunities and builds significant relationships with one of the world’s most seasoned and most powerful civic establishments. Therefore, I advise those students aspiring to study in China to consider learning the Chinese language as an international language. Even if learning Chinese is not a requirement for them to study in China, having a good mastery of this language comes with a multitude of benefits.
