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Mentor Advice

Question

Do you feel that it is important to know the host country’s language prior to traveling there? If so, how should students prepare?

4 Replies from Mentors

  • mentor picture Shannon Wilson
     
    Shannon Wilson
    Sales Representative
    Polymer Science, Inc.
    Though it is not 100% necessary to be fluent in the host country’s language, knowing a few key...
    Though it is not 100% necessary to be fluent in the host country’s language, knowing a few key phrases such as “thank you”, “please”, “hello”, etc. is essential for your survival abroad. Not only are there practical benefits for knowing these phrases, but there are also social ones. The natives of the host country will treat you with more respect if you at least make an attempt to speak their language.