This is what we mean by ‘intercultural awareness’ – the ability to interact with people from different cultures with respect, empathy and understanding. And it is one of the key skills developed during extended periods of residence in societies and cultures where the target language is spoken. No matter what your Languages degree at Queen’s, you will spend periods immersed in the culture of the languages you are learning, whether this be a year-long placement abroad, a one-month language course or periods of residence in the Gaeltacht.
The international mobility and adaptability that these foster, and the cross-cultural sensitivity that you gain as a result, significantly enhance your skills profile on graduation, and contribute to the employability of languages graduates.
For employers, someone who has a track record of living and working in different cultures and the rich life experiences that go with this immediately stands out from his or her peers. They bring a different (international) perspective to discussions, and have shown an ability to adapt to and forge connections in a society where they are not a native speaker, and have been open to expanding their horizons: these are huge assets in an increasingly globalized business environment.