Slow death by FLS

By: Leah Chumbley, Student Guest Columnist

Posted: 11/1/07

I am so tired of attempting Spanish 101!

After taking Spanish every year from kindergarten through eighth grade and again for two years in high school, I still placed into FLS 101. I think this clearly shows my lack of talent in the foreign language area, but unfortunately for me, a communication major, I have to take up to FLS 201. In order to take that class, I must fist take two other Spanish classes, 101 and 102, which will only count as electives.

I don't want my GPA to be effected by the poor grades I will undoubtedly receive in these classes and therefore must use two of my "credit only" credits on these courses. I foresee my grade in 201 being the worst of all three, but since it's required for my major I cannot take it for credit only.

I have exhausted many options in my search for a way out of foreign language courses. I even attempted to claim a "foreign language disability," but this poor ploy did not pass. I tried French this summer thinking a change from Spanish might help.

However, I dropped the class after my professor told me, "if I put good effort into the class, I could probably pass with a D-minus." I have a 3.3 GPA, and I am not going to add a D-minus to that. My parents lost $400 when I dropped French, and as far as they are concerned, they are losing another $1,200 getting me through my required Spanish courses -- not to mention the $200 text package that every Spanish student must purchase.

This semester, Spanish has been surprisingly tolerable compared to my past experiences. I am in one of the FLS 101 classes that has around 100 students in it and find this atmosphere much more relaxed. My professor makes class bearable through use of various learning techniques and constant humor that puts a grin even on my pessimistic face.

In the United States, it may be helpful for citizens to have a basic understanding of the Spanish language. Unfortunately, I do not feel the foreign language classes are teaching survival Spanish. It may turn out more helpful to learn how to say something practical rather than "I like to play basketball in the park with my friends at noon."

This does not mean I have changed my mind. I think it's ridiculous I am forced into taking three levels of a foreign language. The department defends itself by saying it's a cultural learning experience for students and not only about the language proficiency. I have to tell you, taking Spanish at N.C. State hasn't given me much of a deeper look into Spanish culture. If this is truly part of the classes' purposes I would like to have the option to take strictly culture courses instead.

I don't think students should be forced to take foreign language courses. If students want to advance their resumes through language proficiency then let that be a personal decision. As far as I am concerned, it's a waste of time and money.

Do you think foreign language should be required? E-mail and tell us at viewpoint@technicianonline.com.