Languages and volunteering as optional studies. upsides

In some higher education regimes, some foreign languages are given as optional studies while in some others it is volunteering of some sort that suits the interest of the learners.

·         How advantageous these two and mention which one you find better?

Optional studies have always been part of higher education and in some academic circles it is foreign languages whereas is in some volunteering is promoted. Both the options are of some value for the learners, and to me, the latter is better.

 Absorbing the basics of a foreign language is beneficial in many ways. Basically, it is an opportunity incorporated in the main studies and students do not need to set aside separate time and money for this. It is actually economical and interesting. Besides this, as a matter of fact, learning a new language is like exploring an unknown terrain that is marked by new words, phrases, usages, expressions and culturally evolved idiomatic expressions. This would be a great experience for anyone who is engaged in language studies as their mains.

Volunteering, on the other hand, offers a different set of benefits. Firstly, in all societies, volunteering is taken as rewarding. By definition, it is one’s willingness to spare time for others without expecting any rewards. Naturally, higher education learners world be pleased to realize that they are becoming useful to others. Then comes better civic consciousness. For example, student volunteers respect themselves and others equally, abide by the laws, understands better and above all, they are called change in motion. Finally, such candidates get greater grades at times of job interviews.

Having identified the upsides of volunteering and foreign language as optional studies, I find the former more rewarding. One with a little drive can find ways to learn a foreign language at anytime, but being a student volunteer is once-in-a-lifetime-chance.

My conclusion is, any optional is an opportunity for learners to pursue an area of their interests. Since these interests vary from one learner to another, which is better for who is a matter of attitude.

290 words. 29.6.15