Bucknell’s Common Core requirements are minimal, with students needing to complete just a semester of lab science and a foreign language course. It’s understandable why incoming students might struggle with the language requirement, as many high schools prioritize grammar over the cultural aspects of language learning. However, this perspective shifts entirely at Bucknell, where our language professors are dedicated to fostering an enjoyable, immersive learning experience.

Many of Bucknell’s language professors go beyond the basics of reading, writing and speaking. They incorporate cultural elements like food, music and films, aiming to make language classes engaging and responsive to student feedback throughout the semester. While language learning can be challenging and time-intensive, professors and TAs are committed to supporting students along the way. Given their efforts, it’s time to retire the negative sentiment around the language requirement.

Anyone who has learned another language knows its benefits for cognitive development and intercultural skills. Beyond that, language opens doors to new experiences. Bucknell’s language programs offer robust study abroad options, while language skills also bring the freedom to travel independently, enjoy media without translation and fully embrace new cultures. Bucknell’s language courses are designed to be both engaging and enjoyable, providing a wide range of classes each semester.

I understand that language learning can be challenging, but Bucknell offers a variety of language options for this reason. Just as there are lab science courses with less math emphasis, some language courses focus less on conjugation drills. Trying languages like Arabic or American Sign Language could be a great fit for students who may have struggled with traditional high school options like Spanish or French. Learning a language is a valuable part of education, which is why it remains a core requirement. Please respect our language departments and their professors; the cultural exposure and new experiences they make possible are invaluable. Having requirements at a school that otherwise has a very free academic course structure can seem jarring, but remember that there is a reason that we learn to think in new ways. There are many reasons to take language classes at Bucknell, so let’s not complain about the incredible opportunity we have to do so.