Learning English in The United States: The Key to Prosperity

Currently there are just under thirty-five million speakers of Spanish in the United States and Spanish is the second most spoken language.   Most of these speakers are concentrated in the southwestern part of the United States as the climate in this area is similar to the climate in their own countries of origin. Many immigrants left their countries because of political instability.

There are many benefits to learning English.  Firstly, many adult immigrants who want to learn English are highly motivated to learn English because they understand that their financial security depends on their ability to communicate effectively on the job.  Many, however, have a desire to preserve their heritage rather than to learn the American way of life.  As a result, they may never learn the language.  There is more discussion on this in my article, ESL & Should Immigrants Learn to Speak English.

On the other hand, those who hold professional and technical degrees may find that they lack certain skills which are necessary to perform their jobs here in the United States.  As a result, they are motivated to learn the language so that they can use the credentials which they hold.  Some are in anguish because they are working in jobs not related to their professions, or are unemployed, not having learned the language.

Secondly, many immigrants who experienced harsh conditions in their country have found it easier to make a living in the United States doing just about anything.  The cost of living in the United States is much higher than the Spanish countries and therefore, the wages are higher.  Those who are motivated by the better quality of life opt to work two or more jobs so that they can help their other family members move to this country as well.  This alone is a motivator for many immigrants to learn English.

Thirdly, if Spanish immigrants want to become a citizen of the United States and acquire all of the benefits of being a citizen, they would need to learn English to pass the citizenship test.  Many, however, begin learning English in their countries before they actually emigrate to the United States.   This helps them communicate with their family members who have integrated with the American people.

Finally, many will need to learn English just to survive and be able to function in the new way of life that the United States offers.  Without knowledge of speaking English, it is difficult for the Spanish people to go shopping, locate housing, communicate with doctors and nurses, and understand the monetary system.  Trying to get their needs met can be very frustrating for a new alien or resident who does not know English.

There are many free and fee-based classes available for adults who want to learn English.  Many employers offer classes on the job.  Children can learn English in the public school system.  Therefore, the Spanish people have many opportunities to learn English in the Unites States and they stand to make more money as a result.