Outstanding Seniors

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

Unlike many who decide to learn Japanese, I didn't have a childhood fascination or interest in Japan. It was when I was working a dead-end job—and wondering what, if anything, I was going to do with my life—when I saw a video from a Youtube channel called Abroad in Japan that sparked my interest in learning Japanese. In that video, the creator of the channel, Chris Broad, attends a Japanese language school for a day. I remembered that my mother had done something similar when she travelled to Germany to attend a language school around the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

I thought Japanese was a "cool" language to learn due to the sound and script. Moreover, I also thought it would be fun to travel there. I made my decision and began studying Japanese online when I would get home from work in preparation for attending a language school there. It was only after I studied the language for some time that I really began to develop an appreciation and fascination with the culture, history, and people of Japan.

Due to the pandemic, I ended up studying online for about two years before finally attending a language school in Osaka from 2022 to 2023. This experience pushed me to pursue a degree in Japanese when I got back to the states.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

One of the most fun classes I took was the Cultures & Languages Across the Curriculum (CLAC) course taught by Professor Yoshioka. Yoshioka's CLAC course was a complimentary course that allowed students taking a Japanese literature class to meet up once a week to discuss class content and tangential subjects in Japanese for 1 additional credit. I found these courses not only extremely beneficial for language practice, but also for gaining a more comprehensive understanding of Japanese history, culture, kanji etymology, mythology, and so much more. If you have the chance to take a CLAC course with Professor Yoshioka, do it.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

Choosing just one wouldn't sit right with me, so why not all?

Kawase-sensei was instrumental in improving my writing and composition skills, and I'm grateful for her detailed feedback and guidance. She will push you to do your best, and you get out exactly what you put into her courses. She was also kind enough to write me a recommendation letter for the Foreign Language Area Studies (FLAS) scholarship which I fully believe help me get selected as a 2025-2026 recipient (although I never actually got it due to the Department of Education being gutted... totally not slighted or anything).

Professor Khan's "Cultural Moments in Japan" course taught me most of what I know about Japanese history and culture. His course made you want to learn and to engage with the course work; He is the reason I worked so hard on my final project in that class about the importance of Literary Sinitic and kundoku in Japanese language development.

I had Professor Lazarus and Professor Textor for pre-modern and modern Japanese literature respectively. I always looked forward to their classes. They kept class interesting both through the works they chose to cover, and their insight on them. Their classes allowed me to engage more deeply than I could on my own with works from the Japanese literary canon. This makes for great conversation when abroad, I'll have you know. 

While I touched on it above, Professor Yoshioka was instrumental in improving my speaking abilities and overall knowledge of Japan. He seems to know almost anything you ask him about Japan and never fails to explain things clearly. Yoshioka also wrote me a recommendation letter for my study abroad at Akita International University; I am still touched by his kind words. 

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

我慢してください！ Just keep going.

I didn't think I'd still be here at this point, so if I can do it, you can too.

Also learn your kanji radicals by heart. You'll thank me later.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

Look for a job I guess! I plan to go the Boston Career Forum this fall and hopefully secure a job there so I can work in Japan. We will see what happens after that.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I got to publicly present the research that I conducted in Professor Khan's class at Akita International University in Japanese during my study abroad there. I don't think I've ever been as nervous in my life, but it all worked out. Maybe there's a lesson in that. 

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I was a French Immersion student throughout my elementary and secondary years, I have always loved French literature and culture but everything clicked for me my Freshman year.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

I studied abroad in Angers, France the summer of 2025. This experience was amazing because it not only helped me to improve my French skills and interact with French culture, but I met so many people from around the world.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

My favorite class that I took was a course taught by Dr. Vanessa Brutsche that explored the memories and histories of the Nazi Occupation. This course allowed me to explore modern French literature and discover texts that I still think about to this day. Dr. Brutsche's classes are structured around discussions which really helped me to build upon my oral communication skills.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Particpate! It is so easy to feel like you are not qualified enough to contribute in class, or that your ideas aren't good enough. However, my confidence and my language skills improved once I started telling myself I had to participate at least once per class period. You gain so much more when you participate and it allows your professors to get to know you.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I am starting the French MA program at the U in the fall and will be teaching for the WLC department as well. I have found a love for teaching and the world of language acquisition so I hope to become a French teacher after graduating.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I was a Girl Scout for 13 years and received my Gold Award in 2023! 

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

My interest in the Russian language seemed to come about by chance for me, as I decided to try it out on my own for fun during my senior year of high school. That was in 2022, the same year that Russia invaded Ukraine, and it seemed relevant to continue its study, and my love for the language and the culture that comes along with it has only continued to grow. Additionally, the current conflict and its connection to the Russian language have shaped my interest in world politics and relations.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

Last summer, I received the FLAS scholarship through the U and they helped the process of my Study Abroad in Kyrgyzstan. Two other fellow Russian students from here were in the same program, and that language learning opportunity was the best thing I have ever done, and has impacted my life in so many ways.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

It's difficult to single out one professor and class, and I would say all of my Russian professors have been my favorites. Elizabeth Ewaskio started me on my language journey and taught me through my third year, making every new moment exciting. She has been an inspiration during my language journey. Natalya Kuznetsova has expanded my knowledge of Russian culture through film, literature, and music, challenging me to reach a new and more natural level. Olga Savenkova was a constant support as I struggled to improve in those beginning years. I am so grateful to all of these teachers, and awed by their knowledge, kindness, and love for Russian.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Век живи, век учись. Live and learn forever--don't be discouraged as you begin to learn a language. It will take a lifetime, and I am so looking forward to that. Additionally, remember that it's not just a language; there is a whole world behind it to explore.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I have been accepted as a volunteer for the Peace Corps, and I am leaving in June to serve in Kyrgyzstan for two years, where I will teach English to 5-10 graders. I am so excited to have the opportunity to make a difference in these children's lives, and use the knowledge that I have gained at the U to serve others. After I return, there are a few things I would like to explore, but I know I'll be studying Russian (and Kyrgyz by then) for the rest of my life.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

It's so amazing how vast and popular in the Western world Russian classics are! We've all heard of these authors, and if you haven't had the opportunity to read any, I recommend it. Even if you don't study Russian, there is a Russian literature class in English that you should take if interested.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I fell in love with languages during the pandemic. It was a way to stay connected with others when spending time in person was scarce.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

I studied abroad in Germany during the summer after my first year. It was amazing and I learned so much about German culture! It is a major reason why I hope to return after graduation.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

I have had the opportunity to learn from some incredible professors during my time at the U, but I really appreciate my German professors, Joseph Metz, Karin Baumgartner, Michael Gruenbaum and Katharina Gerstenberger.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Learning languages opens your mind to seeing the world in so many fantastic ways. Take the time to really engage with the language and culture, and you will be the better for it.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I am hoping to live in Germany after graduation serving as an English Teaching Assistant for the Fulbright program.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

My favorite German word is "Handschuh," meaning "glove." I love how practical it is because it literally translates to "hand-shoe"!

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

Growing up in multicultural areas, and seeing people from different cultures, speaking different languages interact and find common ground. I want to be and interpreter, and growing up in a bilingual home has definitely inspired that. One of my biggest pet peeves is the term "language barrier" and how easy people give into that excuse. With all the technology and resources we have, this is an easily solvable issue and I want to play a part in that solution.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

A fun experience has been Brazilian club and learning Portuguese, stepping outside of the two languages I have already had a lot of practice with and instruction in has definitely opened my eyes to hardships that come with approaching new languages and a new array of experiences.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

My favorite classes have been my Spanish Literature classes, Intro with Prof. Dulfano, Latin American Lit with Prof. Dajes and Spanish Lit with Prof. Atwood-Mendez. I love learning the story behind popular and more niche literature; books, stories, poems, etc.. I love analyzing and interpreting meanings and learning different literary devices.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Having a group or community has definitely been the biggest help my college career. Professors have been really kind and easy to talk to, but also having fellow students to relate to. Clubs and extracurricular classes have been the biggest influence and help these past few years: meeting new people, even outside my area of study, has been very motivating and validating. Don't be afraid to branch out!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

Participate in interpretation and translating programs and internships. The goal is to get as many certifications, and gain as much experience as I can before I eventually come back to school. I want to pursue Language Pedagogy or start the process to becoming an ASL Interpreter.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I have been constantly surprised by the overlap between my major, including various different classes, and my minor in psychology. It has been very cool to see the overlap between different fields and I want to learn more about this overlap. Going back to branching out, learning very niche areas of study, has been very intriguing. Its exciting to discover and be inquistive about these overlaps and subtopics, kind of like creating your own path.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I was initially inspired to choose WLC as a major because I have a passion for learning languages and enjoy the nuance and cultural implications of speaking another language. I found that I wanted to continue with French and start learning Spanish. WLC provided me with the unique opportunity to do both!

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

Through the support of advisors and my program, I was able to do an exchange semester in Grenoble, France. It was a unique and affordable way to study abroad that deepened my French skills and allowed me to travel and experience multiple cultures, as well as form an international community in a way I never thought I would be able to experience! Through my major of WLC, I was able to receive support that made the process smoother and truly life changing :)

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

My favorite course so far in WLC has been CLCS 4610 with Professor Nathan Devir. The open-ended discussion-based nature of the course allowed me to engage in a lot of interesting conversations surrounding religion and globalization. Additionally, Professor Devir's easy-going and explorative academic nature made the niche topic really interesting!

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Take advantage of the opportunities to study abroad that are offered at the U and connect with professors and other students within your field; these connections and experiences will enrich your academic and personal journey greatly.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I plan to attend a master's program in Germany for either public health, prevention and policy, or clinical exercise science! I plan to work in the international health community abroad.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

As noted by other language speakers, I find that I have a different personality and even tone of voice when I speak French!

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

After living in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland for 18 months as a religious volunteer, I fell in love with learning the German language and more about cultures around the world. I enjoy the struggle that comes with learning languages in order to better connect with people.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

I was lucky enough to participate in a study abroad through the Learning Abroad program which was a highlight of my time at the U! I was the only American in the program which allowed me to make friends around the world and experience a variety of cultures and languages. I would recommend studying abroad to anyone who can!

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

GERM3560 with Professor Baumgartner. I love the way Professor Baumgartner teaches and engages with her students. In this class we learned about various German-speaking cultures which was extremely eye-opening for me. We dove deep into history, culture, language, and literature all throughout the semester as we studied the concept of identity.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Find little ways to further immerse yourself in your area of study. Use things that you already enjoy to spark your learning — cooking new foods, listening to new music, engaging with new social media platforms… All of it is helpful when you’re learning a new language or experiencing a new culture.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

After graduation I will be getting married and moving to Oklahoma City where I will start studying for the MCAT and preparing my resume to apply to medical schools.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

My favorite German word is “Quatsch”, which means “fiddlesticks” or “rubbish.”

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

Growing up, I've noticed a lot of similarities and differences between my own Hmong culture and other Asian cultures so it's always something that I've been curious about. I've also been exposed to a lot of Asian media such as anime, K-pop, Asian dramas, etc. at a young age, so this was immediately an area that I wanted to focus on. My inspiration for Korean is definitely because of SHINee. They were the ones that sparked my interest in the Korean Wave and language. And naturally, I learned more about the Korean culture and traditions as I entered their world.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

For my Korean 4060 class, we were invited to Joon Bae's workshop about Sumukhwa 수묵화. Sumukhwa is a traditional Korean ink wash painting style that uses black ink on paper/silk to capture nature and its inner spirit/essence through the minimalistic brushstrokes and empty spaces. I took Professor Shen's Chinese calligraphy class prior to the workshop so I was familiar with ink painting and calligraphy. Nonetheless, ink painting still looked easier than it really was. It made me realize that having patience and practice is necessary for learning and mastering anything!

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

I've met a lot of wonderful professors throughout my years at the U and I am thankful for every one of them. However, the professors that had the most impact on me were Professor Kim, who taught me the Korean language; Professor Torrey, who enhanced my curiosity in Korean literature and culture; and Professor Chao who taught me Chinese and provided guidance on SLA and becoming a future language teacher. Every class that I've taken from them have shaped me to who I am today.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Your curiosity and willingness to learn different languages and cultures is a stepping stone to building genuine connections with people around the world. To open one's heart and soul is to truly understand and respect the differences between you and them. Even though learning a new language seems almost impossible at times, don't give up. Progress comes in waves; it is not linear. As long as you're learning something and moving forward, that's still a great achievement no matter how big or small. You also can never learn everything since there's always something new to learn. Continue to nurture and preserve your curiosity-- by doing so, you'll find more things about the world than you could ever imagine!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I'm not sure what to do after graduation, but I would love to travel to Korea and other countries to immerse myself in the languages and cultures if possible since I was not able to partake in the any study abroad programs during school. Additionally, it would be nice to find internships or programs to building my experience there too, however, I don't mind traveling just for fun! Career wise, I would be interested in doing research regarding literature/culture, or teaching a second language in Korean or Hmong. Right now, I'm currently looking at grad programs to further my studies.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

A fun fact about me is that I've been learning multiples languages since I was young and had always dreamed to become a polyglot. My native languages are Hmong and English, but I've studied and learned French, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. Although I'm not proficient in every single one, learning them all is a lot of fun! I want to learn more so maybe I'll learn a new language once school is over!

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I came back to school with the intention of becoming a board certified clinical chaplain.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

During my undergraduate career, I feel incredibly fortunate to have benefitted from three outstanding instructors. They have each helped to contribute to my worldview and thus my vocational formation:

Doctor Wijitha Bandara (Retired): Dr. Bandara instructed me during my first semester of college pending a 12-year hiatus. His experiences as a former Sri Lankan monk and his introduction to Theravada Buddhism at Salt Lake Community College was an invaluable beginning to my academic journey. 

Professor John Wynne: The U's former head of the religion department, Professor Wynne educated me in the foundations of Hellenistic and Augustinian thought. He has also supported me in my vocation, providing the professional advocacy and mentorship necessary for my graduate studies.

Professor Max Brandstadt: Professor Brandstadt joined the faculty during my final semester, and I couldn't have ended my undergraduate career on a higher note. His expertise in Mahayana Buddhism and his exceptional skill in expressing Eastern ideas to a Western audience provided the essential finishing piece to my degree.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I am now stepping into the professional world with evolved ambitions: to build a career in international clinical chaplaincy and ethnographic ministry. It is my wish to provide spiritual care to people of all faiths and backgrounds in complex, difficult, and multi-faith settings. 

As I continue my formation, I am pursuing certification through the Spiritual Care Association (SCA) and completing my clinical M.Div. with a focus on grief, trauma and cross-cultural awareness. 

Thank you to the staff who helped me get this far and to the students after me, I am wishing you each the best of luck.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

When I tell people about choosing Japanese for my language degree they usually think it is because I am a fan of anime or manga. I actually chose to pursue a Japanese degree due to my love of literature, specifically Japanese postmodern literature and surrealism. I thought that by learning Japanese and its nuances, I could more easily decode the literature that I read. I could even try and read books in Japanese! I still retain my love for the postmodern to this day, and I am glad that I chose to go into Japanese studies to further my curiosity.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

During my time at the U I was able to take a class with Professor Textor who had a unique approach to teaching - we translated a piece of Japanese fiction that had not previously been translated before. I really enjoyed being able to work in a group for this class and learning the basics of translation. It was definitely hard, but it was worth it!

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

My favorite professor in the Japanese department is Motomu Yoshioka. He really cares about his students and is extremely knowledgeable on literature as a whole, not only Japanese literature. In the Premodern and Modern Japanese Literature classes, I liked being able to speak with other students and learn their side of the interpretation of the works that we studied. I was introduced to some new favorites of Japanese literature, and Professor Yoshioka gives great recommendations!

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Keep going! It is hard now especially with the rise of AI and the economy to feel the drive to go forward. It is worth it! And even when you feel that you aren't the best at the language that you are learning, find some people that will help you.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I am currently going into an internship with Lewis and Ellis as an Actuary intern, using my Mathematics degree. I plan on being a certified actuary in the U.S. and then going on to take the actuarial exams in Japan, so that I can someday work from over there.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I love to read! Please send me any book recommendations you might have of surreal works - they are my absolute favorite. I also am big into Japanese arts, such as Ikebana or Shodou, which are flower arrangement and calligraphy. Getting immersed into the culture you are studying is the best way to learn.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I've always loved languages since I was a kid, which led me to study linguistics when I first got to the U in 2016. Since then, I discovered that the real motivation behind my interest in languages was using them as windows into the lives of past cultures and peoples. To think that we can hear their words, understand how they perceived the world, and read their jokes, poems, stories, and concerns from so long ago is incredibly interesting to me. After completing my linguistics degree, I wanted to continue learning about ancient cultures through their languages, so I signed up for Beginning Latin! I enjoyed Latin so much that I also took Ancient Greek the next year, which led to me falling in love with the literature, art, and material culture of the ancient world.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

It's hard to beat Professor Christensen's archaeological field school in Italy! For four weeks me and a few other students from the U and Boise State University lived in Arquata, Italy and worked with expert archaeologists on excavating a Roman town called Libarna. During the week we worked towards uncovering parts of a Roman house, cleaning finds, and mapping what we found. On weekends we would go visit museums in Turin and Genoa to learn about Roman material culture to contextualize what we were excavating! I learned so much there, had an absolute blast participating in real archaeological research, and of course enjoyed my time in Italy: from eating Italian food every night to living in a small Italian town in the Piedmont mountains and making friends with the people and cats there. This experience is the reason I want to pursue classical archaeology and material culture studies in graduate school.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

It's impossible to pick just one: all of my professors have been influential to me in major ways, whether that be Professor Christensen's hands-on introduction to archaeology in Italy, Professor Toscano reminding me to question the tiniest details in an ancient text, or Professor Johansen's guidance through my senior capstone project and encouraging me to present at conferences. We have an incredible group of scholars to learn from here! I think the most formative class for my research interests, though, was CL CV 3570 Women in Ancient Greece & Rome taught by Echo Smith. This class was incredibly eye-opening for me and helped me identify what my main interests are in the ancient world. Getting to focus for an entire semester on how women appear in classical art and texts, reading the poetry they wrote about their lives, and listening to and discussing these sources with Echo and the other students in the class was very insightful. I'll never forget just how interesting that class was, and now women's lives in the ancient world is exactly what I plan to focus my research on in graduate school.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

If you're brand new to a language like I was, stay patient and trust the process! Don't worry about being perfect, finding fluency quickly, or comparing yourself to others. I quickly found out that learning a language takes time and patience. There are no shortcuts (especially for ancient languages like Latin and Greek that have few materials for beginners), but that's ok because you can still enjoy it the whole time you're learning! Trust in yourself and your professors and you'll soon find yourself enjoying the language in ways that you never thought were out there!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I'm going to graduate school!! For the next two years I'll be working towards an MA in Classical Archaeology at Florida State University. This summer I've also been accepted into the American School of Classical Studies at Athens Summer Program, in which I will join a group of students and teachers and will be given a thorough introduction to museums, art, and archaeological sites all across Greece for six weeks — all led by professors and specialists in the field. I'm so excited to begin the next steps of my studies and continue learning about and researching the ancient world. I can't believe this sort of thing is possible for me, and it's all possible thanks to the classics program here at the U. After my MA, I plan to continue studying classics at the PhD level, and then I could go on to either teach Latin and Greek or pursue my dream job: being a tour guide at a cool archaeological site like Pompeii, Herculaneum, or Knossos!

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

One fun fact I like to share is that we know what Ancient Greek children called the game of hide and seek: ἀποδιδρασκίνδα (apodidraskinda).

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

Spanish has always been an important part of my life, from learning it as a young child to having the opportunity to live in both Spain and Mexico. These experiences shaped my appreciation for language and cultural exchange. I believe it is essential to learn about cultures different from our own, as it broadens our perspectives and deepens our understanding of the world. Many unique and valuable insights can only be gained by engaging with the lens of another language and culture.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

One of the most fun and unique experiences I had was participating in the summer study abroad program in Oviedo, Spain last year. It was an incredible opportunity to return to Spain and fully immerse myself in the language and culture. Learning about Spanish history and culture from a Spanish perspective, after primarily studying it through American professors, was both exciting and surprising. It showed me how approaching history from different perspectives can truly reshape your understanding and the narratives you take away. Beyond academics, I also loved experiencing the food, culture, and meeting so many amazing people.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

Although I have had many amazing Spanish courses and professors, one that stands out most is SPAN 4560: Latin American Culture & Society with Dr. Gema Guevara. She is an exceptional teacher who consistently encouraged us to challenge ourselves and strengthen our communication skills, especially through writing. Her ability to make the material feel relevant to our daily lives led to engaging and meaningful class discussions that connected course content to the present. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Guevara is also an incredible mentor who genuinely cares about her students and their growth.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

¡Si se puede! Stay curious, practice as much as you can, and take advantage of opportunities to experience the language and culture firsthand.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I plan to attend graduate school next year, possibly in Europe.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

According to the Pew Research Center, the United States has 63.7 million Spanish speakers, making it the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I had learned Portuguese before my undergraduate career and wanted to maintain the Portuguese I had learned. I also enjoy learning about other cultures as well, so it was a win-win situation to study in this area!

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

A fun experience I had was the opportunity to help volunteer at a Portuguese fair held at the U and help high school students to have fun learning Portuguese!

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

Intro to Brazilian Literature was my favorite class. It was life changing and I loved learning common themes found in literature from a different country that I could relate to. Not only did it help me learn my Portuguese, but it also helped open my view of the world!

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Keep going! This is an amazing field of study that will aid you to develop connections with others! Even if some classes may be difficult, you got this! The skills you learn will help you and it will payoff!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

Hopefully to get into a medical school!

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I play the duduk, and love to read.

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

I plan on going to law school, so I wanted to choose a major that would help me become a thoughtful, well-rounded, understanding, and compassionate advocate. Religion is something that people hold close to their hearts, and it deeply shapes individual and societal beliefs and values - understanding it is essential to understanding our world.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

An experience unique to my Religious Studies program has been getting to know so many incredible people in the department. Because of the subject matter and small class sizes, it’s easy to get to know classmates and professors on a personal level, and the program truly feels like a community.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

My favorite class was Dialogue and Difference, a course examining Jewish-Christian dialogue taught by Dr. Maeera Shreiber and Dr. Brandon Peterson. The class was about 10 people in total, spanning different age ranges, life experiences, and religion, and everyone was so open-minded and truly looking to understand different views. I think it helped us all understand the beauty of differences in perspectives and find connection across them.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

Be open-minded, and enjoy every minute of it! Religious Studies is such an incredible program, and I'm so grateful I had the opportunity to be a part of this department.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

In the fall, I will be attending the University of Notre Dame Law School on a full-tuition scholarship. I'm very excited to explore different areas of the legal field, with the long-term goal of returning to the Mountain West to serve my community. In the meantime, over the summer, I’m looking forward to traveling, spending time with friends and family, and making the most of my break!

What initially inspired you to choose this area of language and/or cultural studies?

My father being a first generation immigrant from Italy, I was inspired to learn the language and history of our family's culture.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your program in the World Languages and Cultures Department?

The one month Italian language studies program in Cefalu Sicily. It was a wonderful time spent learning the language with awesome people.

What was your favorite class and/or professor? Why?

ITAL 4550: History of Italian Civilization, with Professor Marple. This was one of my favorite classes I have taken at the U not only because of the amazing Professor Marple who made every class taken with her a great experience but also because I found the content and the history of how Italy as a nation came to be very interesting.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language/cultural studies program?

For any student studying a language be consistent and stay with it and you will become a great speaker in no time! I would also highly recommend going abroad for anyone who has the opportunity to do so!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?

I am looking to gain admission to a masters program in Italy for this upcoming school year. I hope to have a career in International Finance starting in Italy and spanning throughout Europe and the world.

Any fun facts about yourself/area of study you would like to share?

I am a big fan of the Inter Milano soccer team! Forza Inter!