March – Youth Month is a meaningful time for young people to reflect on their journey of learning, self-improvement, and aspiration. For students of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, learning a foreign language is not merely about passing exams or earning certificates; it is a journey of preparation to live with confidence and work effectively in an increasingly interconnected world.
Many students once viewed foreign languages as a demanding subject closely tied to grades and examinations. However, beyond the classroom, foreign languages reveal a far greater value. They are powerful tools that enable young people to access global knowledge, broaden their perspectives, and connect with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Each new language opens a new door, encouraging students to step beyond their own “comfort zones.”
Learning a foreign language in order to “live” means learning how to communicate, listen, and understand. When students are able to express their thoughts and emotions in another language, they become more confident in both their academic and personal lives. Foreign languages help young people respect differences, develop open-minded thinking, and nurture a sense of global citizenship values that are essential in the 21st century.
At the same time, learning a foreign language also lays a solid foundation for professional life. In today’s workplace, employers seek not only professional expertise but also strong communication skills, teamwork abilities, and adaptability in multicultural environments. Foreign language students are therefore encouraged to actively practise using language in real-life contexts such as presentations, academic discussions, email writing, and presenting ideas clearly and persuasively.
Youth Month is an ideal moment for every student to ask themselves a simple yet important question: Why do I learn a foreign language? When the mindset shifts from “learning to pass exams” to “learning to use,” foreign languages become a lifelong companion on the path of personal growth. On March 26, students of the Faculty of Foreign Languages at Nguyen Tat Thanh University are expected to continue embracing the dynamic spirit of youth – daring to think, act, and experience – so that they learn foreign languages not only for today, but for the future ahead.
GV TBM PPGD