Why Study Uzbek? Uzbekistan is the second-largest exporter of cotton after the U.S. and has rich natural resources, such as natural gas, oil, gold, copper, and uranium. It is also a strategically important country in Central Asia, which is vital to US foreign policy. The land is famous for its orchards, melons, vineyards, and traditional cuisine. Historically, Uzbekistan was a historic center of empires, education, and trade. The cities of Uzbekistan – Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz, and Tashkent – are symbols of oriental beauty and mystery, and were hubs on the ancient Silk Road. Students who visit Uzbekistan once will definitely come back for more!
Uzbek
Who Speaks Uzbek?
Uzbek belongs to the Turkic language group and is spoken by over 35 million people. Most Uzbek speakers live in Uzbekistan,
but others live in neighboring Central Asian republics and northern Afghanistan. Today, 30 million people live in Uzbekistan, which is roughly the size of California. Uzbek is an easy language to read, write, and speak. There is no gender or complicated grammar constructions. Modern Uzbek is written in a Latin alphabet, which can be typed on a standard computer keyboard. In Uzbek language classes, you will learn about the history and Uzbekistan’s unique culture and traditions.
The small classes, individual attention, fun atmosphere, effective teaching materials, and scholarship opportunities for further study and research abroad will help you master the language and could give an unexpected boost to your future career.
In addition to becoming proficient in Uzbek, you can study the region in depth by choosing a Major or Minor in Central Eurasian Studies.
Learn these everyday phrases!
- Hello (informal, any time of the day): Salom
- Hello (formal, any time of the day): Assalomu alaykum
- Hello (formal response): Vaalaykum assalom
- Welcome: Marhamat
- What is your first name?: Ismingiz nima?
- What is your last name?: Familiyangiz nima?
- My name is ___: Mening ismim ____
- How are you? (Are you well?): Yaxshimisiz?
- Thank you: Rahmat
- Good: Yaxshi
Why Learn A World Language?
In the increasingly globalized world, the knowledge of a world language becomes an indispensable skill important not only for individual enrichment, but also for the broadening employment opportunities.
According to a study from the University of Chicago, knowledge of a world language helps you boost decision-making skills.
Students who study world languages score higher on standardized tests, as a study from York University in Toronto showed. Students who study a world language for at least one year score an average of 38 points higher on the SATs.
Knowledge of a world language increases your chances of landing a good job, as the recent poll of The Economist showed. An MIT study shows that people who know two or more languages earn an average of $128,000 more over their lifetimes.
Learning a second language has compelling health benefits, as suggested by a study from York University in Toronto that connects prevention of the onset of dementia with foreign language learning.
For more info contact:
Malik Hodjaev
John D. Soper Senior Lecturer
Phone: (812) 855-3904
Email: mhodjaev@iu.edu
Piibi-Kai Kivik
Language Program Coordinator
Phone: (812) 856-7442
Email: ceuslc@iu.edu