Spanish actually is a lot more useful than Japanese. Technically speaking, English is the only 'useful' language though, because if you're going to go out and do business internationally, you're expected to know English. Knowing another language helps, but... Only in the countries where it's spoken. Spanish is spoken in the US, Spain, Central America, and South America. In contrast, Japanese is only spoken in Japan. (and they all learn English)
I completely understand why my parents dislike watching me read/watch manga/anime, it's just annoying at times. I know I should be studying, but... It's just too addicting for its own good. *sigh* Good thing anime isn't really my thing... I'd never get anything done.