By Danitza Lazcano Flores – Chile

Hey, have you ever wondered why it’s so important to learn English? You probably see it as just another subject in school, full of boring rules and strange verbs. But the truth is, English is so much more than that. It’s a master key that can open incredible doors for your future. It unlocks a world of opportunities, but it also comes with its challenges. Let’s explore the pros and cons so you have a complete picture.

Why You Should Take English Seriously

Right now, you might feel like your English class is a chore, but think about all the things you love. From your favorite video games and movies to the latest music hits, so much of global culture is created and shared in English. Imagine being able to play the newest video game and chat with players from around the world without a language barrier, or understanding the lyrics of your favorite artist’s latest song without having to look up the translation. English lets you connect with people and cultures on a deeper level, and gives you direct access to a world of information, entertainment, and opportunities that would otherwise be out of your reach.

The Pros of Learning English: The World at Your Fingertips

Learning English gives you a real advantage, both today and in the future.

Scholarships and Exchange Programs: Do you dream of studying abroad? Many universities overseas, even in non-English speaking countries, require a good level of English to apply to their programs. This isn’t just about understanding the classes; it’s about being able to live, study, and thrive in a new environment. What’s more, many scholarships and financial aid programs are specifically for international students who demonstrate a strong command of English, helping to make your dream of studying abroad a reality.

Professional Opportunities: The job market is more competitive than ever, and English is no longer just a “plus”—it’s a requirement. Global companies, tech startups, and even local businesses that work with international clients are all looking for employees who can communicate effectively in English. This means more than just a higher salary; it means more choices for your career path.

Global Connections: English is the world’s most spoken language. It is the language of science, technology, diplomacy, and entertainment. Being able to communicate in English allows you to meet and connect with people from different countries and cultures, expand your network, and share ideas.

Access to Information and Entertainment: The internet is full of content in English. If you don’t know the language, you miss out on a vast amount of information, from news and research articles to tutorials and videos. English gives you direct access to all of that knowledge.

The Cons and Challenges: The Unfiltered Truth

Learning a new language isn’t always easy. There are some obstacles you should be aware of.

Effort and Time: Learning English requires dedication. It’s not enough to just go to class; you need to practice regularly, whether it’s by watching movies in English, listening to music, or speaking with others. At first, it can be frustrating. Irregular verbs, phrasal verbs, and pronunciation can seem impossible.

The Cultural Gap: English isn’t just a language; it’s a window into the culture of English-speaking countries. Understanding jokes, idioms, and cultural references requires extra effort. Sometimes, a literal translation doesn’t work and can lead to misunderstandings.

The Fear of Making Mistakes: One of the biggest challenges is embarrassment or the fear of making mistakes. It’s normal to feel nervous about speaking at first. People might sometimes laugh or not understand you, and that can be discouraging.

Language Variants: There isn’t just one “English.” There’s British, American, Australian, and so on. The pronunciation and some words can be different, which can sometimes be confusing.

The Key: A Future with More Choices

So, the next time you’re in your English class, don’t see it as just a subject you have to pass. Look at it as an investment in your future. The challenges exist, but the rewards are much greater. Every new word you learn, every verb you master, and every conversation you have is bringing you closer to a world of opportunities. The skills you’re building today will give you a huge advantage in the future, both in your career and your personal life. Don’t wait for tomorrow—start learning today and unlock your potential!

Got questions? Don’t be shy! Reach out to us at
anglosaxon.younglearners@gmail.com and we’ll help you out!”

-English Magazine