Languages quickly become a part of a high schooler’s life; while some take only one foreign language, others defy odds by taking multiple.
At Hastings High, there are three foreign language options: French, German, and Spanish. Although, language classes are not required, most students choose to take a foreign language. The way students pick their language differs among students.
Some students decide based on nationality and heritage.
“I chose German because my mom used to live in Germany and my dad’s family is from Denmark, a country neighboring Germany,” junior Maggie Nielsen said.
While others decide by looking to the future.
“I chose Spanish because I believe it will be the most useful in the future,” senior Murphy Glen said.
Freshman Grace Canady had similar thoughts, “I chose French as my language mainly because I’m really interested in art and want to someday be an art curator, so knowing French would really come handy,” Canady said.
Some students are exceeding the language requirements by taking multiple foreign languages in their four years.
“I originally started with German and simply took it because I needed a language class for college, but once I started I really enjoyed it. I liked the way it sounded, the grammar, the music, and the history really appealed to me. So, I decided to study it intensely in my free time. Then, the next school year I picked up Spanish and French soon followed,” junior Spencer Tessman said.
Although we offer three foreign languages already, some students believe that HHS needs to offer more languages particularly an Eastern language.
“Personally, I wish HHS offered Arabic and Mandarin. I believe that those two languages are very needed in the current society,” Nielsen said.
Tessman had similar thoughts, “I would like an Eastern language of some kind. Not to mention that Eastern Languages are in higher demand from the government. Languages like Russian, Mandarin, Arabic are some of the most widely spoken languages in the world but less taught by American schools,”
Despite the want for more languages, students are thrilled with their language experience this far.
“Learning languages at HHS has been incredible!” Nielsen said.
As Hastings High continues to grow, maybe some day in the future more languages will be offered.
