Why study French? 
The answers may surprise you.
(Be sure to check out the map of the French-speaking world below!) 

1.  Study French to increase your success in school.
Learning a new language develops your critical and creative thinking skills.  Math and verbal SAT score are progressively higher as the years of study of foreign language increase.  Moreover, studying a foreign language can help you achieve higher standardized test scores in reading, math and language arts. 

2.  Study French to get into college.
When employers and universities look at applicants, they do not start looking at the bottom of the lsit and see who has done only the minimal amount of requirements necessary or taken the easiest route available, they start at the top of the list and look for those students who have risen above the rest.  Although most universities require 2 years of a foreign language, high school students should consider studying at least 4 years of a foreign language. 

3.  Study French to get a job.
Speaking French will increase your job opportunities and salary potential in the United States and abroad.  Over 1,200 French companies in the U.S. employ nearly half a million Americans.  Even more Americans are employed by French companies abroad.  Additionally, many American companies have established themselves in French speaking countries and employ Americans.  Knowing French allows you not only to function but to compete effectively in the global economy of the future.  In fact, French is the language that will give you the most options in your studies and career.   

French, along with English, is the official working language of the United Nations, UNESCO, NATO, OECD, the International Olympic Committee, the European Union, the International Red Cross, and many other prestigious organizations. 

4.  Study French to improve your English competancy.
Knowing French will improve your vocabulary in English.  Over 40% of English vocabulary comes from French.  In fact, French is the romance language closest to English.  

5.  Study French to travel.
French is the official language of 33 countries and is widely spoken in at least 10 others.  French is the only language, other than English, spoken on 5 continents (6 if one considers the research base on Antartica).  DeForest High School offers students the opportunity to travel to a French speaking country during their high school career.  Please see Madame Leung for more information. 

6.  Study French to increase your appreciation for other cultures. 

7.  Study French to better understand the heritage of Wisconsin.  
French has been an important part of Wisconsin since 1634, when the fur trade was established.  Reminders of the presence in Wisconsin of "La Nouvelle France" are still ever present today.