Kate Lee 2020
Studying Chinese as a Korean American helped set me apart in any application process (college, job interviews, abroad programs, etc). Having multiple languages always was a wow factor and conversation starter that helped me connect with people in unique circumstances. It opened up so many opportunities for me. Specifically, I was able to go abroad during college to Singapore, HongKong, Taiwan, Japan, and Thailand because of a study abroad program for Chinese Language. I realized how widely used Chinese was and how useful it was when traveling and meeting new people. I was also able to connect with Chinese international students and be a part of many clubs and events (such as lunar new year). I was also hired as a Chinese Language tutor for the beginners in college as well for a college job. I ended up getting a Chinese Minor while in college as well. Learning Chinese in High school was a massive advantage in my life that changed my trajectory for the better in every way (opportunities, relationships, and convenience)
Sydney Patten 2020
I swear my brain works differently and in a better way. I’ve been able to think and apply knowledge of any subject with deeper cultural understanding. While I went to CU this has helped me connect with other students. I went to a genetic engineering conference in Paris last November and about half the attendees were Chinese. It was fun being able to talk about the culture and of China and seeing how it interconnects with biology.
Sarai Brown 2020
Learning a language I feel like has helped me academically in that it has taught me a lot of widely applicable study skills that I didn't learn from any other subjects. Also, my Chinese has gotten my foot in the door in many job opportunities, both current and future.
Rob Rodriguez 2014
After graduating from high school at Grandview, I continued my Chinese language studies through to the completion of a bachelors degree. I also spent a significant time living in China for studies. Once I finished by undergraduate career, my language skills helped refine and make my applications stand out while applying to PhD programs (albeit in an unrelated field). Having experience in Chinese has been incredibly important in my marketability and communicative skills as a whole.
David Hamilton 2023
Studying Chinese for these past years has built up my memory tenfold. It is so much easier to memorize anything. It is also impressive to have a background in a more complex language during job interviews or college applications. In certain internships and jobs, there is a higher pay rate for people that can demonstrate proficiency in needed language.
Right now I am in Advanced Chinese and next semester I am looking into taking a course called Chinese Military History. If there is anyone pursuing a career in military or government service, a strong background of Chinese and computer science is especially wanted in today's world climate.