The ability to speak a second language is growing in importance. The world is becoming more connected, and with this new interconnectedness, we must be able to communicate effectively as well as understand the differences in cultures. A sense of tolerance and acceptance needs to be taught. An excellent way to begin to understand other cultures is to study abroad and learn their language.

Specifically, knowing Spanish in Iowa today can be extremely useful. Advantages to knowing Spanish include being able to apply for jobs just because you speak the language. As the numbers of Spanish-speaking residents in Iowa increases, knowing Spanish can be valuable in many situations.

Just the other day, while driving with a friend, I stopped to help someone whose car had broken down. He didn’t speak a word of English. I knew very little Spanish, but luckily enough to offer him my phone so he could call a friend to help. Good thing I know four words of Spanish, but in this case, I felt helpless because of my lack of knowledge.

Walking along Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco over spring break is quite the experience. This particular evening, as the warm western sun sets, we stop where a large crowd gathers.

We look on as a dark, beautiful woman, probably of Hispanic heritage (here I go making assumptions) attempts to get us to take a free “carpet ride.”

This carpet ride is a digitally mastered video, shot in a green-room and made to look like you are flying in a city of your choice.

As we watch, I move forward to see how it is being produced. Meanwhile, another man, also darker, begins speaking in rapid Spanish to me.

Struggling to understand what he is saying and attempting to piece together the four words of Spanish I know, I feel quite awkward. The only Spanish that comes to mind is, “Yo soy vegetariano.” Which I assume means I am vegetarian (more assumptions).

I mutter these words at him and receive in return, not a compliment on how strong my Spanish is, but a sincerely confused and worried look from this poor gentlemen.

“I’m sorry,” I bleat. “I don’t speak Spanish.” He has already realized this, but I insisted on telling him anyway. We discuss the software and how the recording is done, but I’m not listening. My mind has wandered elsewhere.

After the 350 millionth time I have been approached by Spanish speakers, one would think I would learn. You would hope that I would take the time to learn the language that everyone on the planet assumes I speak.

After taking two pathetic years of Spanish in high school, my vocabulary is limited to the curse words I hear when I am refereeing soccer games at Latino league in Des Moines, and the few phrases I have been taught by my Spanish speaking friends on campus. All words that shouldn’t be repeated near adults.

This became more apparent when I traveled to San Francisco. California has a large influence of Spanish-speaking residents. Most billboard ads are in English and Spanish, and all public transportation signs are in at least two languages. Turn on the radio and most stations use a combination of English and Spanish, or are strictly Spanish. A majority of my time in California was spent either speaking Arabic with my friends, or attempting to decipher Spanish.

As I’ve mentioned above, learning languages and understanding other cultures is utterly important. Besides being able to effectively communicate with those around you, you will be able to feel comfortable and cause less confusion. Iowa State has an excellent study abroad center and offers classes in many foreign languages.

Studying abroad and learning a foreign language are vital pieces of our education from Iowa State. We are not simply citizens of Iowa or just Americans, but we are now truly global citizens that require us to learn and understand other cultures.

So the next time someone comes up to you and starts speaking rapid Spanish or another language, you will not only be able to respond correctly, but you will be able to avoid the awkward situation that I routinely find myself in.

Merci beaucoup.