REASONS FOR STUDYING A SECOND LANGUAGE There are a number of reasons for studying a second language. However, most people would agree that by studying a second language, you increase exponentially your opportunities to find a job. Yet, I do not consider vital to know a second language at a high level for travelling. On the one hand, I think that learning a second language for travelling is advantageous in case you have to ask for directions if you are lost, to talk to locals, to buy some goods… Nevertheless, it is not a key factor to manage. Provided that you have a good map or navigation system and some charisma, you will surely have a good experience despite the lack of a second language. On the other hand, recruiters are mainly demanding a good command of English (among an endless list of things) in their ideal candidates. Therefore, since English profiles are in high demand, your application might be overlooked if you do not have either an upper-intermediate level of English or an advance level. As hard as it might sound, all the valuable working experience that you may have together with your postgraduate studies, no longer count as much as they used to if you do not master English. To conclude, and taking all this into account, I would encourage everyone to learn a second and even a third language. The reason why I firmly believe in the importance of this does not lie in travelling but in working. Because the economic crisis has hit our country and everywhere so badly, that there is a fiercely competition involved when seeking either a remunerated job or even a voluntary activity.