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In an effort to increase global awareness, a number of events for were organized during Global Vision Week to give students the opportunity to listen, learn, discus and debate worldwide topics.

On Wednesday at noon, students and faculty were invited to “Lunch and Learn” session where the Modern Languages Advisory Board organized a panel of business professionals to discuss “Professional Opportunities Beyond your Mother Language.”

The panel consisted of In-House Translator for Hy-Line International, Ivy Clawson, Wells Fargo Community Banking President, Marta A. Codina, DuPont Pioneer Latin America Regulatory Operations Manager, Mike Connelly, a retired Physician, Monica Hanson, and Owner of Contemporary Business Solutions Suzanne Hull.

To start off the discussion, each of the panelists introduced themselves, some noting their native country of origin and explained their professional and personal experiences with being bilingual.

After each of the professionals noted their work experience, the majority of the discussion focused on the pros of knowing a second language. Panelists emphasized the notion that “learning a second language opens doors for job opportunities, socializing, building relationships, and enriching vocabulary.”

In addition to stressing the opportunities that stem from being bilingual, the members also expressed how crucial it is to not only try and visit the country of the language you are learning, but to also be in tune with the culture of that language.They mentioned how an individual feels special and connected with when they recognize that someone has taken the time to learn their native language, practices, and traditions.

Global Vision Weeks “Lunch and Learn”, was an informative session about the power of being bilingual