America is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world with over 350 languages spoken within its borders. And while 78% of the United States population speaks English, there are over 66 million people who don’t speak English as their first language. 

Unlike European countries, most Americans tend to be very closed-minded about learning new languages, but it is important to expand your horizons and learn a foreign language. Not only does speaking more than one language help you open opportunities abroad, but it also provides insight into other cultures. 

Speaking a second language enhances career growth and advancement. Research shows bilingual employees can demand higher salaries than those who only speak one language. Speaking a second language also improves problem solving skills, creativity and cognitive ability. 

If you’re interested in learning a new language but aren’t enrolled in any courses, apps like Duolingo or Babble are great resources. Duolingo is a free language learning app, and is one of the world’s most popular ways to learn languages because it gamifies the process. 

Over 500 million people used Duolingo in 2022, with 13.2 million daily users. In 2022, learners gravitated towards learning English, French and Spanish. 

The app provides personalized lessons adapted directly to students’ needs. Duolingo also creates consistency and teaches students how to follow routines in learning. 

The creators are constantly improving the Duolingo app by adding more languages and updating the system used to teach a language. So far, there are over 40 languages offered through speaking, writing and listening activities through this app.