[Clemenza]

I've found that my knowledge of Spanish (which I learned, on my own, starting at 16) has been a tremendous advantage for both personal and professional purposes. Even when you are dealing across the table with folks who may be fluent in English, you still get alot further when you speak their language.

[Sender]

I too learned Spanish in high school. I really got immersed in it. It has been a blessing and a valuable skill for me ever since.

I think that many Americans get all upset over immigrants who don't speak English. So they just think 'we speak English, dammit'.

The same people would easily understand the value of knowing multiple computer languages or software packages. How is it any different to know another language?

I have been blessed with so much good due to the 2 other languages I've studied, Spanish and Russian. You just can't believe the doors it opens up to you to be able to communicate with the rest of the world. And it enables you to tell them how it really is, so they won't have to just depend on Pravda or the New York Times ;)