Students in the United States should study Arabic.  There are many reasons for learning this beautiful language.  First, the sheer number of Arabic speakers across the globe merits attention.  There are more people who speak Arabic as their first language than there are people in the United States; that is, over three hundred million native speakers. 

By studying Arabic, one can see the world in a whole new light.  No longer will students require material on the Internet or in newspapers to be translated into English.  Instead, with practice, they will be able to enjoy what the Arab media can contribute in addition to what the media in the United States has to offer. 

Furthermore, learning Arabic makes students appear more valuable in regards to career potential.  The United States’ government is in need of employees that have the ability to understand and utilize the Arabic language.  There is a high demand for Arabic speakers in the West, but unfortunately, the number of Westerners that attempt to learn the language is relatively low. 

Students who study the language might not be fluent—certainly, mastering any language takes plenty of time and practice—but they will definitely have an advantage over the other potential employees.  Finally, the United States’ media mainly focuses on the negative aspects of the Arab world.  Because of this, as well as a lack of exposure to Arabs, many Americans only see people from the Middle East as infidel-killing terrorists, destitute beggars, or exorbitantly wealthy sheikhs. 

However, when students have the ability to converse with the average Arab and Arab-American man or woman, their eyes will be opened to a world outside of themselves.  They will see that the American media has often presented a tainted view of the Arab people.  Students will understand that Arabs are like people of any other culture, with eloquent poetry, beautiful music, and delicious food. 

This understanding will enable students to strive toward a more peaceful coexistence between non-Arabs and Arabs, one free from suspicion, stereotypes, and fear.  In conclusion, students who study and learn the Arabic language will possess the ability to build bridges of communication with Arabic-speaking individuals, obtain better jobs, and minimize anti-Arab views among those students.

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