In lieu of an article here about increasing access to English as Second Language (ESL), deemed it fitting to write about the importance of ESL to non-native speakers.  This program has been featured for a long time and no doubt has helped millions of non-English speaking individuals all over the world.

Will not dwell on which language should be considered as the premiere or main international language. However, one thing is for sure, every person wants to learn how to speak English, regardless of race or age.

What is ESL exactly, anyway?

This is a program designed to educate non-English speaking individuals to speak and write the language at least in a decent manner. This is especially useful for those who are planning to study in a U.S. school or university and majority of them require foreign students to take and pass the  Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). This test will gauge a non-English speaker on his or her speaking and writing skills through grammar and vocabulary quizzes, and essay topics, to name a few.

Somewhat hidden importance

The necessity to pass the TOEFL is the most obvious importance of taking ESL.  However, there are still other reasons why non-native speakers  should study English. Read on for a few of those reasons:

1. It helps them to be bilingual - admit it or not, many would not like to be confined to just speaking or writing a single language. 
2. It molds them to be globally competitive – as English is one of the most easily recognized languages, learning it would make one employable for high-rated jobs outside his or her native country.
3. It helps them to be socially active - again, exposure to English makes one more interactive with other nationalities that he or she may encounter.
4. It boosts self-confidence - the ability to speak and write a foreign language gives one a boost in self-confidence as one knows that he or she can interact gracefully and decently.

Learning English is always beneficial and well. kind of expensive too as well. However, local colleges have ESL courses as well and it all depends on the student on how he or she will take into mind what will be taught. If one is really serious in learning the language, then it’s worth the time and financial resources.