This document provides several reasons why studying languages is beneficial even though English is widely spoken. It notes that only 31% of Western Europeans speak English as a foreign language and 75% of the world's population does not speak English at all. Some key benefits outlined are increased opportunities for university/jobs, exposure to new cultures, improved communication and problem solving skills, and the ability to do more trade and business with other countries. Even basic language skills can make a difference, and being bilingual can boost earnings by up to 20% over a career.