Honestly, I'd much rather have taken Chinese than Spanish (which is why I'm slowly learning it now as an adult.) Yeah, we can all agree the CCP is evil. But China has some interesting mythology (and good food!) In studying their history and games you can infer more about their culture and the aims of whatever government is in charge (Go is particularly relevant to understanding their Belt and Road initiative.)

Also, Chinese women are crazy - but usually the good kind.