What languages are strategically prevalent at the moment?

2015-02-10T18:14:43-05:00

I am contemplating attending DLI and started the online portion of it (Headstart) for Arabic. My frustration with it runs high and if any traces of my anger are made visible, I apologize. Arabic Headstart, Module 0 wants me to understand full-fledged conversation and answer if the statements are true or false. I am not there yet. So I am forced to reassess my choice of language. I speak a few Europpean languages already and thought that Arabic, Chinese or Korean would be the next step in my career growth. Arabic presents a challenge but not something I cannot overcome under reasonable circumstances (diligent hard work). I don't consider Headstart to be in that category.
I seek help in identifying plausible arguments to push through with Arabic and perhaps some tips on how to handle Headstart.
Or should I consider other languages due to their rise in interest?

Thank you kindly.

Response by CW2 Joseph Evans made Feb 10 at 2015 6:23 PM

2015-02-10T18:23:14-05:00

Arabic is going to be big until we nuke the middle east. Relax. The headstart program is to get you used to the flow of the language. That being said, the DLI headstart may not be the best way to approach a new language. Once you are there, they have a number of other ways for you to familiarize yourself with the language and dialogue. Just don't let them trap you with the idea that there is only one way to learn a language.

As for long term considerations, you need to consider whether you plan to be a lifer, or if you intend to use the language in a civilian capacity, and if so, what you want to do with it.

Went through 2 years of Korean at DLI myself. Perishable skill, I can barely recognize it when someone speaks it around me these days.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 10 at 2015 6:23 PM

2015-02-10T18:23:47-05:00

I'm marriedto a Japanese woman and in a year, her English is incredible....my Japanese is still pathetic. Let me know what you find out, brother!

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Feb 10 at 2015 6:53 PM

2015-02-10T18:53:47-05:00

Arabic, Farsi, Chinese, Russian. You know, the hard ones who don't like us and are powerful.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 10 at 2015 6:56 PM

2015-02-10T18:56:54-05:00

Any of the 35P varieties that gives bonus.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 12 at 2015 6:30 PM

2015-02-12T18:30:20-05:00

@SGT Rima Rusnac

I am @DLI, study a dialect for arabic, not MSA (Iraqi, Egyptian, Levantine), or give a try to Chinese Mandarin. Stay away from the common european languages, and stay away from korean too

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2015 9:27 PM

2015-03-09T21:27:15-04:00

SGT,

With Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Russian and Farsi, you are almost certainly guaranteed job security both in the Army and thereafter. I am not an Arabic linguist (I'm Pashto); however, I would say that between those five Arabic, Chinese and Russian would be the most beneficial from a national defense standpoint. Also, Farsi and Russian are a bit on the easier side.