The Power of Language: Reflections from the Foreign Language Career Day at Wayne State University

Today I had the pleasure of attending the Foreign Language Career Day at Wayne State University in Michigan representing the German Professional Women’s Association. The event was designed to highlight the value of language learning and the importance of international networking in shaping students’ professional paths and future lives.

As someone born in Germany and raised across different parts of Europe, I understood early on how crucial language skills are- not just for communication, but for building bridges across cultures. Europe, in contrast to North America, is a relatively small continent with a wide range of languages and cultural backgrounds. English often serves as the lingua franca, especially in tourist areas and professional settings.

In the United States, the geographical size and shared language provide a different dynamic. English generally suffices in most areas, although Spanish is becoming increasingly influential, especially in the southern states. However, in an increasingly interconnected world, speaking more than one language opens doors- not just to different countries, but to deeper understanding, empathy, and more meaningful collaboration.

As a culture consultant and someone who works daily at the intersection of language and culture, I strongly believe that multilingualism and cultural awareness are not just assets- they’re essential competencies for the global workforce. It was inspiring to see so many students interested in developing these skills and engaging with the world beyond their borders.

Events like this are a vital step toward preparing the next generation for the global challenges and opportunities ahead. I am grateful to have been part of it and look forward to continued conversations around the power of language and cultural competence in shaping our collective future.