Opinion
Hamilton’s study abroad language requirements limit options
By Paul Giuliano ’19
November 3, 2016
Tags opinion
As a sophomore, I have begun my search for a study abroad program for my junior year. Hamilton offers a wide variety of great study-abroad programs, even including domestic options such as Washington D.C., New York City, Boston or the Adirondacks. While reviewing the approved international abroad programs that Hamilton offers, I found a plethora of opportunities, with over 100 different selections. Excited about the possibility of studying in a foreign country, I delved deeper into each program to see which one was the best fit for me.
Aimed more specifically at studying in Europe, a number of countries landed on my list: Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Russia. Naturally, I was disappointed when I learned that in order to study in these countries I must have met certain language requirements at the College. All of a sudden my top preferences were gone, some of the most popular countries in Europe had been taken off the table. I was disappointed to find that countries with the language requirements happened to be my favorites.
My excitement somewhat dimmed, I continued my searched for a European program that fit my interests. There were plenty of options in English speaking countries such as the United Kingdom or Ireland, but I was seeking a more cultural experience where I could live in a world with a new language. The countries left were Sweden, Switzerland, Iceland, Hungary, Greece, Czech Republic and Denmark (not all of which have classes that fit my major/minor). While these are all excellent choices, they are very different from the popular Western European countries that require a language.
The choices are limited as well, as a little over 40 percent of the available countries in Europe require languages. I believe that the school should either offer requirement free programs alongside the established programs or expand the selection of European programs. Offering requirement free programs alongside the existing programs offers two very different experiences while appealing to a large part of the Hamilton student body. Students that meet the language requirements can continue to participate in programs in their respective languages while students who are interested in studying in Western Europe but have no language experience can still study where they so choose.
I am all for the intensive language programs and those who choose to participate in them are certainly getting more exposure to the culture of their respective country. However, prohibiting unilingual students from exploring countries and cultures they may be passionate about is a disservice. Western European nations tend to have a large population of English-speaking citizens and I believe it is quite easy to immerse oneself in a given culture without the knowledge of their language.
Culture is more than just language; it is a people’s way of life, their art, their history, all of which needs little to no translation to observe and take part in. If the college limits its students’ participation in certain programs, then I believe it needs to expand its number of approved programs throughout Europe in order to compensate. Countries such as Belgium, Portugal and the Netherlands are possible countries that could provide the Western European allure without the language requirements.
While my personal interests didn’t include Asia, the language requirement also restricts students’ ability to go to China and Japan. Again, I completely support the College’s prerogative to encourage students to take the language prior to studying abroad, as it does provide an enhanced cultural experience.
However, completely excluding students without language experience is a disservice to the student body and can impede on their college experience. Hamilton College has a wonderful selection of study abroad opportunities that any student would be fortunate to participate in. That said, including complementary programs that do not demand specific language requirements would greatly enhance the students’ off-campus experiences and give students more freedom.