Why Learn German

Why learn German? It’s a question often asked of students learning the language. Concordia Language Villages, in partnership with the American Association of Teachers of German, the Zentralstelle für das Auslandschulwesen, and the German Embassy sponsored a scholarship contest aimed at answering just that. Dan Karl Hamilton gave his own opinion as a starting point and contest entrants took it from there.

The responses received were many and varied. Some, like Sarah from Minnesota, emphasized the business aspect of learning German when she wrote, “You already know that German is the most widely spoken language in Europe, which makes it great for any business through the European Union, but it’s also very useful in the Eastern European countries, where German is the second most-common language.”

Others approached the question from a cultural aspect, like Max from Idaho. “I play the piano. I have played for over five years, and I love the composers Beethoven, Bach, Mozart, and Brahms.”

Robert from Colorado points out how many customs that Americans take for granted are actually Germanic in origin and for good reason. “As of ten years ago, German-Americans were the largest ethnic group in the U.S.”

Several entries speak of learning German as a means of addressing a personal growing Wanderlust. “I don’t know what to do when I grow up, but I do know that world travel and finding out about different cultures will be my lifelong passion,” writes Luc from Iowa.

One of the most persuasive responses comes from Erin in Kansas. In response to our question of why learn German, Erin responds, “Who doesn’t love chocolate, especially German chocolate?”
   
The list of contest winners…

Max Teems, 10, Idaho
Sonia Urquidi, 14, Wis.
Robert Amico, 17, Colo.
Luc Moisan, 14, Iowa
Savana Stuhl, 11, Wis.
Erin Smith, 9, Kan.
Kiehlor Mack, 17, Minn.
Sarah Nissen, 14, Minn.
Lena Schroeder, 12, Minn.
Erynn Hierl, 11, Wis.

clv@cord.edu
1 (800) 222-4750