November 7, 2008

Bilingual Essay

"We should have a great fewer disputes in the world if words were taken for what they are, the signs of
our ideas only, and not for things themselves" - John Locke. I believe this statement holds multiple
truths. I am a Vietnamese American and also the first generation in my family be born here. My parents
immigrated from Vietnam in order for me to achieve more in life and to give me
brighter opportunities. They have always encouraged me to learn the Vietnamese language by sending
me to a school. There, I learned how to formally learn how to read and write Vietnamese. Although the
classes came with a price, I had the gift of taking them for five years. Throughout the years of my life, I
have experienced many situations where the advantages of being bilingual have revealed that being
bilingual is a gift that I cherish and use to help others.

During my childhood years, language was not anything that I took particular interest in. During the first
grade, I befriended a foreign student from Vietnam. He was evidentially older than the most of the
students yet despite the age difference, I could see that he lacked confidence because of his language
barrier. The discomfort in his eyes almost mirrored ones like a lost boy at a mall. The teacher told me
that I would be helping him throughout the day, by becoming his personal translator. As the day pro-
gressed, the boy started to open himself up more, as he realized there was someone who could under-
stand him. That was when I realized the power of language.

During middle school, I began to volunteer at the library. My job was not only to stack the books ac-
cording to the Dewey Decimal System because I also had the job of communicated with others. My
ability to speak multiple languages became beneficial to those who lacked the skill to speak English.
Many adults who came to the library were not fluent in English and because I was the only Viet-
namese-American there, I was usually the one who would help them with their problems. I felt proud
knowing that I could help others. I was able to broaden my vocabulary as communicating with others
demanded, yet I was also helping someone else through what I consider an obstacle. Through this in-
spiration, I decided to spread my abilities and learn the Spanish language.

Currently in the fifth year of Spanish, I have the desire to further my proficiency and assist others who
have language barriers. These classes not only allowed me to learn a new language, but also
allowed me to improve in my primary language. Utilizing my skill, I wish to go Hispanic third world
countries to help those in need because I believe that the experience is a reward within itself: to
help others in need. I currently have a job at Quiznos Subs. Even at work, my ability to speak multiple
languages helps me understand my customers which in turn, help them. There are many occasions at
work where I find myself communicating to others using a foreign language, not only to
understand them, but to help to let them know that they are not alone.

As I look into the future, I see myself going to college and majoring in foreign relations. I am looking
for a career that I can practice what I am passionate about, which is helping other. I believe
that words can bring peace and amity to the world. Language is the key to communication, and with it,
brings hope and inspiration.