New Year's Resolution: Learn A New Language
By Zara Husaini
If your New Year's resolution includes adding a new skill to your resume, or broadening your cultural awareness, taking a language class could be the answer. Maybe you've lost touch with French since your high school days, or perhaps you'd like the ability to order tea in Turkish, or sushi in Japanese. Luckily, Pittsburgh has various language classes that promise to satisfy almost any need. Sure, there are countless books and programs that promise to teach you a new language on your own time, but for a more immersive experience, be sure to check out one of these courses, and you'll be soon crossing this New Year's resolution off your list.
If You Want To Learn A Fast-Growing Language:
Echo International
3 Gateway Center
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
www.echointernational.com
Located in Gateway Center, Echo International offers courses in German, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Arabic. A working knowledge of any of these languages could help further your career and give you an advantage on your travels.
If You're Interested In True Cultural Immersion:
Carnegie Mellon Modern Language Certificate
5000 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
http://ml.hss.cmu.edu/ML/certificateprograms.html
CMU offers a program that not only gives its students an understanding of the grammar and vocabulary of each language, but of its cultural significance as well. In order to earn a certificate degree, students must complete a program in an approved abroad location. An oral exam is administered to ensure conversational proficiency. Though this option isn't for those who have little free time, it's the most thorough, and completing this program ensures cultural awareness as well as the ability to speak a new language.
If You're Looking To Improve Your Oral and Written Skills:
Lingua International
PO Box 15646
15244-0646
www.linguaintl.com
Lingua International is known for offering translation services, but they also offer great classes
in foreign languages. The focus is on speaking and writing in another language. With four levels
(from beginner to superior) offered, there's an option for everyone. If you'd prefer to interact
with others, go for a group class. If you'd benefit more from one-on-one training, they offer
that as well.
If Your Children Are Ready For Foreign Language Instruction:
Little Linguists
3122 Carson Avenue Suite 100
Murrysville, PA 15668
www.littlelinguistspittsburgh.com
It's never too early to start learning a foreign language, and the people at Little Linguists know this. They offer a variety of courses for young children. The atmosphere is equal parts fun and educational, and adult classes are offered as well.
If You Want To Learn An Exotic Language On Your Own Time:
Berlitz Virtual Classroom
www.berlitz.us/Berlitz-Virtual-Classroom/686/
Unfortunately, Berlitz doesn't have a Pittsburgh location, yet. However, they offer every language imaginable online. This is your go-to course if you're looking to learn on your own time, in the privacy of your own home.
