World Languages & Cultures Alumni 

What initially inspired your study of this language?

I have always been fascinated by languages and cultures from around the world. I learned German in high school and had dabbled in a few other languages. I finally chose to study in the Chinese program at the University of Utah after meeting many wonderful people from mainland China and Taiwan while serving as a missionary in northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., which is an incredibly diverse area. I also met people from many other cultures who spoke many different languages, but I had a particularly strong desire to deepen my knowledge about the rich and amazing Chinese culture that I encountered through the people I met.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?

In the Fall 2023 semester, during my senior year, I had the opportunity to fill in as a Learning Assistant for third-year Chinese students for five weeks. This was a fun and invaluable experience, and it was meaningful to me because I was able to get to know more of my fellow students and help them practice and improve their Chinese. Explaining the grammar concepts and vocabulary also strengthened my own knowledge, and so it was an enjoyable and instructive experience.

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

After graduation, I would definitely like to use Chinese in my future career. I am considering applying for a Master’s program and becoming a teacher, but there are many other possible pathways. No matter what my future career ends up being, I plan to make Chinese a part of the rest of my life.

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

My advice for students of Chinese is to make the language part of your daily life. Classroom instruction is important for building a strong foundation and receiving the instructor’s feedback, but in my experience, confidence and fluency in a language mainly come through using it outside the classroom. Mandarin Chinese is not the easiest language to learn, but it is doable! It just takes time. Integrating the language into your hobbies and other aspects of your life will not only increase your language study time but, more importantly, it will make learning a lot more enjoyable and expose you to a greater variety of topics and situations. Just be sure to start slow to avoid overwhelming yourself. You should push yourself a little out of your comfort zone, but not too much or too fast, especially in the beginning stages. You can increase the amount of input over time as your abilities grow. 

Find some Chinese artists or bands you like. Watch videos or listen to podcasts about your favorite topics in Chinese. Change the language of your game to Chinese, if it is an option, or try some new games. If you like reading, you can start with graded readers or children’s stories and work up to higher-level content. Use the clip reader and other features on Pleco (purchasing the basic bundle of add-ons is worth it). Try going to a Chinese supermarket and converse with the employees or customers there. Try following some Chinese recipes. Make some Chinese friends, find a language exchange partner online or on campus, or hire a tutor if you want. Many Chinese native speakers are looking to practice English and would be happy to help you with your language as well. Of course, there are many other methods of learning too. Be creative and find what works for you. 

Finally, avoid comparing yourself to others. Keep in mind that everyone has different backgrounds, strengths, and learning styles. Only compare your progress and current abilities with your past self so you can see how far you have come. With enough time and work, you are all capable of reaching your desired proficiency and accomplishing amazing things. 加油！

What initially inspired your study of this language?

When I was in elementary school I watched my older brother take Spanish classes as a high schooler. He excelled at the language and made meaningful connections with Spanish speaking friends and co-workers as a result. I decided from a young age that I wanted to become fluent in Spanish because I wanted to be like him. Thank you Brady for introducing me to something I've grown to love so much.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?

I spent my fall semester of 2022 studying in Cusco, Peru and it changed everything. I quickly became enamored with the people, food, landscape and culture. I watched my ideological and religious beliefs shift as I became friends with people from different parts of the world, and loved feeling stretched and challenged in such a beautiful place. Upon returning home, I decided to switch my Spanish minor to a major and vowed to return to Peru to live in the Sacred Valley. I can't get enough of it.

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

I will be solo backpacking through Europe for two months this summer! In May I fly to Barcelona to begin the famous Camino de Santiago trek. After spending a few weeks wandering through the beautiful Spanish countryside on the Camino Primitivo, I will make my way to Switzerland and Italy to hike and climb. After a month at home I will fly to South America for an extended solo trip for the remainder of the year :) I plan to spend the rest of my life exploring as a travel adventure journalist.

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

You're better at the language than you think. It's easy to doubt your competence when you're learning a second language, but trust yourself enough to keep speaking even if you don't know how to express yourself perfectly. Use the mistakes you'll inevitably make as momentum to keep practicing. Don't forget to take time to step back and acknowledge your progress. You've come a long way since you started!

What initially inspired your study of this language?

Growing up I’ve had this dream of traveling to Italy and learning their culture and way of life. I became very interested in studying the language in hopes to one day visit Italy, and be able to experience the culture and learn of the many things that Italy has to offer.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your Religious Studies program?

While I took my first semester of Italian classes at the U, the professor’s passion for teaching and getting student involved with the culture and language was incredible it encouraged me to participate in the Intensive Italian Language Program in Verona. It was one of the best experiences I've had while attending the university. Being able to fully immerse myself into Italian culture and be around peers who share the same interest made the experience comforting and overall amazing. I got to create friendships while aboard and memories that will last forever, I am so grateful I was able to experience that. I was able to practice my Italian with locals as well as peers. I was able to travel and learn about other cities in Italy that made the dreams of traveling to Italy so real. Being able to experience this has created a love for the Italian culture and language it has inspired me to share the same passion my professor showed me to others around me and to eventually return to Italy and experience new memories. I would have not found this love for the language and culture if it weren’t for my professor and if it weren’t for the study abroad program.

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

I am preparing to attend nursing school spring 2025.

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

If you have the opportunity to experience a summer aboard, you should do it! It will be one of the best things you ever do, you will learn the language and culture in a whole other way. 

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I took Latin on a whim when I first transferred to the University of Utah, and it was because of the incredible Professors in the Classics department that I decided to pursue a degree in Latin. I was additionally inspired through my studies in the Classics to expand my research interests and take on a second major in German. While the professors in both departments passion made me excited to learn all I could about both languages respectively, it was my study of these languages themselves that made me fall in love with them. Interacting with ancient Latin texts and modern German people are experiences that will remain with me forever.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your Religious Studies program?
My favorite memories of my time at the U are also some of my first. Within the midst of the pandemic, all classes were moved online, and my first semester seemed to be thrown into disarray. I won’t lie, I was quite discouraged. Online learning was a necessary transition, but an unwanted one. Yet, despite all of the obstacles, my Latin 1010 professor, Dr. Margaret Toscano, arranged for us to meet on campus once a week in a big auditorium so that we could take exams together and have some time to collaborate in person. These days were often disrupted by storms and sickness, but they helped cement in me not just a deep love and appreciation of the Latin language, but also a love of being at the University and experiencing life on campus. Without Latin, Professor Toscano, and the WLC department writ large my college expirience would have likely been vastly different and substantially less memorable.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I have won and accepted a Fulbright Scholarship to Berlin, Germany which will begin in 2024 and extend into 2025. Following this, I will attend graduate school in pursuit of an advanced degree in Latin. After I complete graduate school, I want to teach Latin at the secondary level.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
Sometimes the work we do in the humanities can be written off as wasteful decadence, but it is important to remember, that while the translational work we do and languages we study can get "lost in translation" the work we do must not because it matters. Language and communication is the basis of what makes us human and to study another language is to open your mind to a new way of thinking and imagining the world entire. Learning languages is hard work and requires a lot of patience, but when one truly dedicates themselves to learning a new language, they learn not just how to speak to others, but also how to relate to the world and its people in an entirely new way.

What initially inspired your study of this language?
Curiosity, a sense of challenge, and expanded opportunities.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
My favorite class was CLCS 3610, a course on war literature. We had fascinating discussions about memory, identity, and gender that united a lot of my interests along with both of the languages I studied.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I am on track to intern with National Geographic! I hope to pursue a career involving journalism and intercultural storytelling.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
Be consistent, strive for community, and gracefully accept that learning a language involves making a fool of yourself on a regular basis.

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I wanted to read seminal mathematical texts in their original language.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
I really enjoyed the Great German Thinkers class with Dr. Joseph Metz; I learned a lot about German philosophy and writing.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
Immediately after graduation, I will be joining a research lab in Darmstadt, Germany researching subatomic sensing configurations. I aim to ultimately become a research professor.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
This probably sounds cliche, but keep it up!

 

What initially inspired your study of this language?
My favorite teacher, Mrs. Cassia Peeler at Jordan High School

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
My favorite experience in French at the U was being able to visit Paris for the first time on a study abroad trip.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I'm planning on working as a project manager at a local political campaign office, and starting a master's degree next year!

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
“Don't measure how valuable you are by the way you are treated.” ― Charlie Mackesy, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I discovered Japanese pop music in my early teens which started a long interest in the Japanese language.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
I had an internship with the Utah Natural History Museum. I did a Japanese translation of their audio tour guide map. It was especially fun to learn how to describe different geological time periods and the various megafauna.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I plan to apply to the JET exchange program in Japan and ultimately do translation professionally.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
Take a few history classes that are related to the historical contexts in which your language has been spoken. I found that the language history courses really deepened my appreciation for the language itself.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?

One fun experience I had was being able to research Slavic Folk dances and create a dance of my own which was presented on stage during the Ballet Student Showcase.

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

I will be joining a professional ballet company.

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

Use your language skills to learn more about subjects you are interested in. This will not only broaden your knowledge of the subject but also aid in learning the language faster.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

It isn't easy to capture all of the special experiences I feel I've had, but every class I participated in felt like finding a new window to look out from, seeing a fresh breathtaking view each time. I've felt so much joy studying Japanese. Learning the intricacies of the language and culture has been a satisfying struggle. I feel immense gratitude to have been guided by such wise and kind professors while discovering greater depths of language and literature, and likewise my passion for them.

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

The future often feels like a wide horizon; Where are we now in the scheme of things? Where are we headed? I trust in knowing that metaphorical islands await, regardless of direction. I plan to further my education in Design and Japanese studies and someday work in Japan. I can't wait to return to Japan, now with eyes to see even more than I did before.

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

There is always more to learn, but encourage yourself to have that be a point of excitement rather than discouragement. Exercising curiosity has led to some of my most rewarding and inspiring learning experiences. Give yourself the best opportunity to blossom; Take advantage of tutoring, CLAC courses, clubs, and special events. Share what you know with humility and confidently absorb all you can! 応援していますよ！

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

I was awarded an FLAS Scholarship which due to COVID I used for a virtual study abroad through Harvard Summer School. It was an amazing experience and I learned so much!

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

I plan to enter the workforce in Engineering, but hope to use Chinese in my career.

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

Some of my most fun classes and professors have been in this program, but you get out of it what you put in, so if you are hoping to learn a lot, you have to put in some effort.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

One of my favorite experiences so far was authentic French cheese tasting in Anne Lair's symbolism of French food class! It was super fun to get hands-on experience seeing and tasting French cheeses while also learning about their origins and characteristics. The baguettes served alongside the cheeses also helped make the experience super Frenchy.

I'm also currently interning with the Utah Museum of Natural History helping translate some tour materials into French. With this project, it's been fun to integrate French with the community, knowing that what I'm working on will be useful to someone in the future.

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

After graduating, I hope to explore the many career paths that my French degree will offer me! I am really interested in English/French translation and interpretation and would love to include that in my career. My wife and I hope to spend some time living in (or at least visiting) France or other areas of the French-speaking world. We then plan on starting a family together after we are both graduated and want to continue to stay in the Salt Lake area for the time being. Connecting and engaging with the French-speaking immigrant communities here in Utah also interests me.

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

Learning French is definitely intimidating and overwhelming at times. There are so many different grammar rules, sentence structures, verb conjugations, and new vocabulary to memorize. Literally thousands of things to learn and try to keep in mind! But to me, in a way, that is also the beauty of French and language learning in general - you'll never stop learning new things. When you take the time to really engage yourself often with the wide world of French, both in school and outside of school, you’ll pick up on new words, new expressions, and new connections that can increase your desire to keep learning more! Just the fact that there is always something I can gradually improve on and get better at with French makes me excited to keep going with it! It really does offer you a lifetime of learning, practice, and constant improvement, something that you can keep with you wherever you go.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

The Language Intensive program in Oviedo, Spain was transformative. I would love to return soon and see all the friends that I made over there in that magical pocket of the world that will always feel like home.

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

This summer, I plan to travel through Europe and Asia. When I return, I plan to move out of state to work in the law and study for the LSAT.

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

Language isn't just an academic subject, it's a tool for genuine human connection. Use the program at this University to find the intricate beauty of your language(s), and seek out opportunities to use the language to help and connect with others.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

My undergraduate experience would be nothing without all of the faculty at the Russian department. They are phenomenal, and I am so appreciative and grateful for the work and enthusiasm they put forward in their courses. I doubt I would have been able to progress as far as I have without their tutelage.

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

I plan to pursue a career working in government service as the best place for me to employ my expertise, at least until such time as other opportunities arise!

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

You have the best people in your corner working every day to support you. Utilize them as best you can, they are an incredible resource.

What initially inspired your study of this language?
While serving a mission in Paraguay, I was introduced to several languages. After spending the bulk of my time learning Spanish and a bit of Guarani, I was sent to Saltos Del Guairá - a city on the border with Brazil. I spent my final 8 months there, and in that time fell in love with the sound of Portuguese. I really tried to practice and pick apart the language daily while there, since everybody spoke Portuguese in that town. Upon returning home, I was lucky enough to discover the FLAS scholarship, which gave me the resources and time to formally study a language and culture I came to love so much.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
So many things I could mention here - Medical Portuguese, a Study Abroad in Brazil, even lifelong friends I've made in my classes. However, the one that stands out the most is my C.E.L. projects with Anna Hodgson. Through them I began interpreting (in both Spanish and Portuguese) for Maliheh Clinic. This decision not only opened a lot of doors in my life, but helped me find a way to use my language skills in a beneficial and emotionally rewarding way for those in need. I have spent many personal moments with patients and family members as doctors discussed cancer, diabetes, glaucomas, pregnancies, and more. I became a conduit for speech, and in the process learned a lot about clear communication in the medical field and built empathy for patients as attempted to transmit their worried, anxious, and yet still hopeful thoughts. As a future doctor, these experiences are some of my crowning memories upon which I will build my character.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
Recently, I was accepted into the University of Utah's medical school, where I plan to start this fall. My wife and I will also likely attend a study abroad in Portugal over the summer, for which we are very excited. Beyond that, I hope to explore and find a medical career where I can regularly use my language skills and make a difference in peoples lives. I have never felt like one who wants to tackle the bigger issues in society. Instead, I want to focus on the issues at hand, and devote my efforts to the needs of those around me. My community, my family, and especially my wife. I say this, because I want to emphasize that my philosophy will be to make an impact on the lives of patients I see. That is something I know I can work towards, and it starts by using the knowledge and experience gained from my WLC major. Who knows? Maybe a positive influence can spread to others around me, and perhaps that will have a greater impact on the larger picture than anything else I could have done.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
You have no idea how many opportunities there are around you, especially with the resources available at the U. Seek them out, ask around, and take advantage of as many of them as you can. I promise they will take you places you could have never predicted. 

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I initially began my Russian studies after living in Lithuania and being exposed to Russian communities there. I always wanted to be able to read Russian literature and I became very interested in the history of Eastern Europe. Studying Arabic started out as a pandemic hobby and intellectual pursuit to help me focus on something while everything around us seemed to be in flux, and ended up becoming an integral of my humanities studies over time.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
One of my favorite parts of the WLC program was my study abroad program in Egypt. I was able to travel around the Middle East and see so many new and beautiful places. I was able to learn a lot about Islam and practice my Arabic, and my experiences from that summer are some of my most cherished.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I will stay at the U to finish my Master's program in Biomedical Engineering, continuing my research in immunotherapy and novel treatments for leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. After I complete my graduate degree, I plan to continue working in immunological research and development, with a focus on translational medicine. Additionally, I hope to be able to use my foreign language experience to work with international teams in localizing and distribution novel therapies to help increase treatment options for patients across the world.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
There are so many opportunities for speaking your language, and they will present themselves in the most unexpected places and times. Trust yourself and be confident - you know more than think you do. These opportunities lead to new friendships and new experiences, and being able to connect with someone else in their native language may make all the difference in their sense of community, belonging, and appreciation.

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I have always wanted to learn a second language, and Korea's phonetic alphabet and culture made me want to learn the language.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
Once I got into third year Korean, there were always fewer than ten people in the class. That meant that I got to spend a lot of time inside and outside of class really getting to know my classmates and professors. Because of those relationships, I felt relaxed enough in my language classes to have fun, make jokes, and be creative with my final projects. I also always felt like I had a support group that I could turn to when I needed help. The small class sizes have really made my time at the U amazing.

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
I'm planning on applying to grad school later this year to get a master's degree in genetic counseling. I eventually want to research genetic disorders and gene therapies, and I would love to collaborate with researchers from other countries, or conduct research in other countries, especially Korea.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
Don't be too afraid to talk to the other students in your class. They're probably feeling the same thing that you are about learning a new language, and they may end up being some of your best friends. I wish that I hadn't been so timid in my beginning Korean classes. I can also promise you that you will not regret dedicating so much time to a language. Learning Korean has been incredibly rewarding and has given me more opportunities and friendships than I can explain here

What initially inspired your study of Classics?
My dad telling me and my siblings the Greek myths as bedtime stories.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
Being involved in Eta Sigma Phi (the Classics Honor Society).

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
To apply to grad school after a gap year.

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
It may be difficult at times, but it is worth it!

What initially inspired your study of this language?
I wanted to study Russian because I love Russian history and literature.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?
I was able to study abroad in Kyrgyzstan last summer and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I never thought I would ever go to Central Asia and I never expected Russian to take me there!

What are your post-graduation plans? Short-term and/or long-term?
Good question! I don't know. So far I'm planning on staying in Utah to keep working for the Utah Historical Society but we will see...

What words of inspiration or advice do you have for students still at the U studying in your language program?
Study those verbs and read Russian literature.

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
My senior thesis was written on the origins of the Kabbalah mystic tradition.

Words of advice?
Religion is such a massive and often sensitive subject, and your current understanding of it will be challenged often. Embrace it! Whether it's your own religion or one that you study academically, the willingness to question your own beliefs and understanding when presented with new arguments and evidence is a great strength.

Praise from faculty:
Mr. Angell is extremely bright, hardworking, articulate, passionate about his major, Religious Studies, as well as other areas of learning. His exams were excellent and his contributions to class discussions are always extremely insightful and thought provoking. Every time I have suggested an article, film, or book which is not required for the course but relates to some of the topics we have been studying, Spencer comes back to class, having read the article or book, or seen the film. It is quite phenomenal. His wide knowledge of Religious Studies and mysticism made the course, God, Love, and Mysticism so much more enjoyable for myself and the other students since Spencer always drew our attention to excellent analogies and comparisons. Mr. Angell is a courteous, compassionate, highly motivated, and determined young man who wishes to pursue an academic career. I can’t think of a student who is better suited to be a scholar and teacher than Spencer Angell.
-Prof. Soheila Amirsoleimani

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I wrote a senior thesis on Philosophy in Virgil's poetry.

Words of advice?
Don't be afraid to pursue your interests! Classics is awesome in that there are so many fascinating topics to pursue, and faculty office hours are a great way to explore and just chat about them.

Praise from faculty:
Ryan is an exceptionally engaged student. He turned from a Biology major, into Philosophy, and then ultimately into a Classics and Philosophy double major, who has learned both classical languages (Latin and Ancient Greek) and plans to go to grad school in classics. He has been active in the classics community on campus, president of of our classics honors society.
-Prof. John Wynne

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
For my practicum, I undertook a localization project where I translated a game only released in Japan and prepared it for an English-speaking audience.

Words of advice?
Stick with it! Language learning demands a lot of discipline and persistence, but the rewards are so worth it. Studying Japanese has opened up an entire new world of media, ideology and friendships to me and it has been a large and very positive part of my college experience- I wouldn't be who I am today without it!

Praise from faculty:
Ryan has been an outstanding and self-motivated student. On his own initiative, he brought togetherhis training in game design and Japanese for an independent video game localization project. He has also played a leadership role in student-driven Japanese cultural activities on campus.
-Prof. Cindi Textor

Ryan is one of the best students I have ever had at the UU (top 5%) and he received A from my Japan 5290 class last semester. This semester, he is taking my Japan 5291 class, and he is likely receiving A again.He is very talented and caring for other students. He is the vice president of the Japan Culture Club Association at the UU, and he is playing the major for the coming Rakugo (Japanese traditional short-story telling event) for this semester.Ryan has the ability to work with passion and dedication in the classes. He is self-matured and incredibly ethical and honest.
-Prof. Shoji Azuma

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I volunteered at the Utah Labor Commission as a court interpreter for spanish speaking clients.

Words of advice?
Siempre sé tú, y aporta tu mejor esfuerzo y todo irá bien.

Praise from faculty:
Sam was my student for 3 courses: “Language in Society” in Fall 2019 and both “Spanish Phonetics” and “Introduction to Hispanic Linguistics” in Spring 2020. The Fall 2019 semester was Sam’s first semester at the University of Utah. Despite the challenges that transfer students face during the first term, he performed very well in the course. In the Spring the courses he took were in Spanish and I could assess his language level, which is advanced in both writing and speaking.

For the Spring courses, we had to half of our semester online due to COVID-19. Sam completed all assignments on time and stayed on track. He communicated with me regularly throughout the semester, even attending several optional Zoom study sessions. For all 3 classes, his final presentations and papers were of high quality. I was impressed with his discipline and commitment to his academics, despite the pandemic and keeping a job!
-Prof. Tanya Flores

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I completed my Honors Thesis which explores the modern liminal identities in les banlieues and emphasizes the importance of self-determination to create one's own narrative as featured in the novel "Kiffe Kiffe Demain" by Faïza Guène.

Words of advice?
For a long time, I thought the only viable pathway in French post-graduation would be language teaching. While I think this is an admirable position and one which I considered pursuing, I realized that I was primarily attracted to the language and culture as living, evolving forces. After studying abroad in Grenoble, I was able to identify how my interest in the French language and francophone cultures intersected with my passion for environmental work. Moreover, after critically examining whose stories are represented in French curricula and whose are left out, this absence reinforced my passion for justice-based education. I encourage you to find opportunities to apply your language skills to your other interests as it can be an incredibly empowering, rewarding experience.

Praise from faculty:
Julianne Liu excelled in coursework. We were particularly impressed by her refined and sophisticated close reading skills and her elegant writing. She always looks for, and finds, le mot juste. Inher work she successfully incorporates close textual analysis with broader theoretical concepts. As a double major, French and Environmental studies, she has given truly excellent presentations on environmental concerns in Ivory Coast and on food wasting in France. In her work she links an environmental study approach, highlighting data and graphs, with a French cultural studies approach, foregrounding textual analysis. We have praised such solid, well-prepared and original presentations. In everything shedoes she is determined to reach close to perfection.
-French faculty: Prof. Therese de Raedt, Prof. Anne Lair, Prof. Jerry Root, Prof. Vanessa Brutsche

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I wrote and presented an honors thesis on Joseph Smith's revision of gendered language in the New Testament.

Words of advice?
Enjoy every class, and develop strong relationships with your professors. They are your most valuable resource.

Praise from faculty:
I have known Sam since January 2020, when he simultaneously enrolled in two of my courses: “Introduction to Religious Studies” (RELS 3620) and “The Jewish Experience” (MID E 3880-001). Throughout the duration of both of these courses, I was consistently impressed with his curiosity, intellectual depth and sophistication, and unflagging work ethic.
Sam was, in fact, a model student in both of the aforementioned classes. Always engaged with the material, alwaysready to discuss whatever issue or text was on the agenda for the day, his enthusiasm and attention to detail set him apart immediately. (I might also add that even when the content matter of one course overlapped with another, and I excused students likehim, who would be essentially going over the same material twice, he elected to be present nonetheless!) Full of sophistication and maturity, he always set the tone for meaningful group discussion. For example, in his presentation on the anti-Semitic writings of early Church fathers, he went to great lengths to contextualize the Christian-Jewish relations of the period, showcasing a nuanced and even-handed approach that could easily have veered toward a shallow kind of hyperbole or emotionalism. Instead, he discussed the ways in which Jewish and Christian polemical positions functioned as strange bedfellows, almost needing each other in order to justify each one’s burgeoning theological dogmatism.
His written work in both classes was also of a very high caliber, and dealt with academic sources (of his choice) that I would have been very reluctant to assign to an undergraduate student. His written work possessed a stylistic flair and creative sophistication that already suggested the attainment of graduate-level competency. In retrospect, this is not at all surprising, given the cross-fertilization likely due to his voracious reading habits. I remember seeing Dostoyevsky’s Notes from the Undergroundand Orwell’s Animal Farm among his materials one day in class; he mentioned that those were for “pleasure reading” rather than assigned texts from other courses. Needless to say, I thought then (and think now) that he has much to teach his peers about the value of being engaged with the Humanities!
-Prof. Nathan Devir

Praise from faculty:
Melanie Montelongo-Bernardino is a thriving young scholar dedicated to Spanish/Latin American literary study and its connections with ethnic, gender and race studies. Melanie brings an interest and enthusiasm to the classroom. In two of my classes she worked diligently withother students to create a dynamic of learning and thinking in our time together.
-Prof. Isabel Dulfano

Unique Experience at the U?
A unique experience that I had while at the U was learning more about my heritage and communicating with family members while at home and visiting South Korea! It made my visiting experience in South Korea so much better because being able to verbally communicate and understand them made us so much closer.

Words of advice?
Korean is a beautiful and unique language, created for the sole purpose of extending literacy to everyone, despite their class or ranking in society, in order to communicate with one another. My advice is to continue studying, speak to your professors or LA's when you are confused, and if you can, involve yourself even more with Korean culture and the community.

Praise from faculty:

In my Korean classes at the U, I have met many outstanding students, and I feel very lucky to teach so many dedicated, intelligent, and endearing students. Even among so many great students, Sarah Moore has stood out for her unusual diligence, enthusiasm, and courage. Sarah worked steadily through our program from First-semester to Fourth-year Korean, and, in addition to completing the Korean minor requirements, she took most of the Korean classes we offered and provided invaluable help to one of our instructors during her semester as an unpaid Learning Assistant.
Sarah always took care with her work, often fulfilling more than expected. Her engagement with course material was apparent even outside class, as her occasional emails about some relevant point indicated. One semester she even lent me a book that turned out to contain material I could use in a future class. I was also impressed at Sarah’s courage and willingness to move out of her comfort zone. Despite becoming very nervous presenting in front of class, Sarah never asked for the in-private presentation option that I allowed for students with performance anxiety, and instead always pushed herself to perform for the class, relying on hard work and careful preparation to get her through. She was always very engaged in classroom activities, working well with her classmates, asking relevant questions, and applying new information immediately to whatever she was doing. Her warmth and good sense of humor also lent much to class dynamics.
When classes suddenly and unexpectedly went online in the middle of the Spring 2020 semester and I revised my Korean course to ease the demands on students by eliminating some of the previous requirements and offering many optional activities, Sarah completed almost all the optional activities while also meeting all the requirements with strong performances in every area. I know Sarah has been active in extracurricular events as well. Sarah’s work ethic, generosity, courage, and intelligence have left a lasting impression on me, and I think she is more than deserving of the Certificate of Excellence.
-Prof. Deberniere Torrey

Sarah, congratulations on your achievements in our program.
Best wishes in your future. 항상 행복하세요!
-Prof. Hyesun Kim

Words of advice for language students?
Make an effort to find language practice on campus, with friends, or in the community. You will never learn unless you make mistakes.

Praise from faculty:
Courtney is bright, persistent, and hard-working.Learning Chinese well takes dedication, persistence and attention to detail, and Courtney demonstrates these qualities every day.She is a mature, responsible student who is always well prepared. In my Chinese Narrative course, she took the initiative to seek extra feedback; few students are so proactive or driven to improve. In addition, her sunny disposition means she gets along well with her peers, and she communicates effectively both orally and in writing.
Courtney is a great example of excellence at the U.She continually strives toward her goals,and those goals will make a difference for those around her.Courtney has significant experience with Chinese culture, having served a Chinese-speaking mission in New York. She wants to build on this foundation. She is particularly interested in workingin law/advocacy or public relations; Courtney would like to raise awareness regarding mental health stigmas, perhaps by founding or working for a non-profit organization.
-Prof. Margaret Wan

Words of advice for students studying Russian at the U?
For students studying Russian, I strongly recommend attending the USSR club at our university. They provide an opportunity for sink-or-swim practice in a safe and controlled environment, which is more valuable than you realize, even if it stresses you out. I also recommend reading. It can be anything that you would otherwise read in your primary language, even if you don't get it. Reading can help you understand the flow of the language and find new contexts for words you know, as well as identify word parts that will help you understand new vocabulary in the future.

Praise from faculty:
It is a pleasure for the Russian section to honor Zoe Price who is graduating this spring. She has been an amazing student whom we have very much enjoyed teaching. In language classes, she has shown a remarkable aptitude for learning Russian. As a linguistics major, she gravitated to the Russian linguistics offerings where she also shone. Zoe possesses an exceptionally keen mind and is a motivated, sophisticated learner who holds herself to uncommonly high standards. We wish her all the best and look forward to hearing where she goes next.
-Russian faculty: Prof. Jane Hacking, Prof. Natalya Kuznetsova, Prof. Elizabeth Ewaskio

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
For French I took the service learningclass with Lily Alavi. For German I participated in a pilot group of fellow German students called SPARK for German. We taught German a supplementary Germany class to middle school students.

Words of advice?
I personally have been asked many times what I am going to do with the languages I have been studying. People often try to suggest things that I could do with the languages in order to get a good job. Yet more importantly I think learning in any way should teach you what and who you want to become. Learning language has taught me many things about myself, about life, and about the world around me. When you take time to study a language, especially here at the university you are not going to learn just the language; you are going to learn about politics, history, science, literature, etc. and how they are all intermingled with language and society. And as with anything, you get out what you put in.

Praise from faculty:
David is an exemplary Humanities’ scholar. He has shown exceptional intellectual curiosity, persistence, and a passion for languages and cultures. His writing exhibits an uncanny sense of style and an individuality in choice of words and grammar construction we rarely find at his language level. However, his most important assets are his love and kindness toward others. Knowledge is nothing without a love of humanity. He is what we Germans call a ‘Mensch.’
-Prof. Karin Baumgartner

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I took the class WLC 3940 where I had to complete 30 hours of service. I worked in many different areas. From translating brochures into Spanish for a food bank to calling members of the Latino community to register them for COVID Vaccines, I was able to help the Spanish-speaking community in many ways.

Words of advice?
It is important to have a reason for why you want to study the language. My reasons for studying the language were to broaden my perspectives on cultures around the globe and enhance my oral and written communication skills. When I kept these reasons in mind, I was able to stay on track with what I needed to accomplish to succeed.

Praise from faculty:
Jordan turned out to be one of the most outstanding and academically sound students I have come across in my teaching career. He is committed and responsible, something he demonstrated through the care and effort he consistently put in his work, his command of Spanish, and his genuine interest in the issues relating to the cultures of the Hispanic world. He was a positive presence in the classroom and his informed insights were always welcome contributions to any discussion.
-Prof. Talia Dajes

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I spent a summer abroad -best summer of my life! I also took a community engaged learning courseworking with a local middle school, which was a really great experience! Engaging with the language outside of a typical classroom setting is always really rewarding.

Words of advice?
Studying a language has been such a highlight of both my time at the U as well as in my life generally. It really provided such a unique experience, and it personally broadened my perspective of the world. Keep working with the language, appreciate its quirks, and above all stick with it. It only gets better!

Praise from faculty:
Alyssa is a world citizen with a deep understanding of another culture and language, she writesand speaks in compelling ways, understands how the history of Germany and the US are intertwined, thinks critically and creatively, and she is involved in the local community through her volunteer work. She exemplifies the best of what a humanities’ education signifies: she asks questions, then she does the research, and then, if she doesn’t like the answers, she gets involved.
-Prof. Karin Baumgartner

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I volunteered at 10th East Senior center during my Sophomore Fall semester, teaching a beginnerslevel French class every week that was open to anyone who wished to join. The experience was like nothing I have ever done since; being on the other side of the classroom, as a teacher, was a much more daunting task than I expected and I definitely acquired a newfound respect for my professors!

Words of advice?
Always do what you love! Find the area of study that excites you, and the opportunities, be it as a student, professionally or recreationally, will follow.

Praise from faculty:
The French section wishes to nominate Bella Williams as an Outstanding Senior in French. Bella worked her way steadily through our program, taking courses with all four of us. She started in a third-year intensive grammar course with Anne Lair, then moved to advanced undergraduate courses with Jerry Root and then to a graduate course with Vanessa Brutsche. She is currently enrolled in a graduate course with Thérèse De Raedt. Bella has excelled in all our classes. Recently she applied to our MA program.We accepted her enthusiastically and were all impressed with her overall profile.We discovered that not only has she done well with us, but she is also a straight-A student, a double major in French and History, and a competitive athlete and member of the university’s track and field program.
Bella Williams is a consummate example of excellence in the humanities.According to Professor Root, Bella displayed so many strengths it is hard to know where to begin to list them.One thing that struck him was that Bella’s approach to the assignments in his class was almost never based on the obligation but on her own motivation.She would often do extra research on the context of iconic images of French culture or on the historical backdrop to French texts.In his classes, he found that she had a knack for analytical thinking and an incredibly mature skill to convert that thinking into polished, structured, written French. Her grasp of the importance of evidence for an argument is total.Her ability to establish and contextualize evidence is excellent –including, and perhaps especially, visual evidence. She writes with a very natural, yet powerful and calculated, rhetoric.One feels constantly in her papers that each sentence is just right, coming just at the right time, making just the right point, and driving home that point almost always with a stunning twist.It is also noteworthy that she wrote on subjects as wide-ranging as Marie de France, Racine, Flaubert, Proust, Truffaut, Godard, Kaurismäki, Daubigny, Delacroix, Willi Ronis (photographer). For Professor Brutsche, Ms. Williams quickly distinguished herself as one of the top students in her seminar –of mainly graduate students. In addition to her outstanding written work in the seminar, she was also one of the few students to consistently respond to or dialogue with the discussion posts of her peers, indicating her profound willingness to engage in intellectual collaboration. Her ability to move between highly specific, localized close readings and the larger structure and stakes of the work, while remaining in dialogue with relevant scholarship, is remarkable.For Professor Brutsche, Bella’s capacity for synthetic thinking, always bearing in mind the larger stakes of analysis, is her most notable intellectual skill. Her intellectual independence, capacity for analytical thinking, and ability to express her ideas in writing make her a model of excellence in the humanities. Professor Brutsche felt that she had rarely encountered a student as critically sharp, intellectually ambitious, and well-rounded as Bella Williams
-The French faculty: Prof. Jerry Root, Prof. Vanessa Brutsche, Prof. Therese de Raedt, Prof. Anne Lair

WLC Signature Practicum Experience?
I did student-teaching for my teaching license. It is an experience that has changed my life and I wouldn'thave done it any differently!

Words of advice?
There is always something new to learn, never forget that :)

Praise from faculty:
Ms. Zamora was a student in my Advanced Composition and Conversation class in the fall semester of 2018. I was very pleased to learn that Chantelle decided to major in Spanish Teaching. She is committed to making sure that anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, has access to a high quality educational experience. She worked on her Spanish Teaching Practicum at West High School where she served as an ideal role model to many students that looked up to her and realized that higher education was a real possibility for them too. I am sure that Ms. Zamora will be an excellent teacher and children and colleagues will benefit from her expertise.
-Prof. Lucia Rubio

Following the completion of my Russian degree at the U, I moved to Birmingham, Alabama to complete my BS in Nursing. I now work as an ER Nurse in Charleston, SC. I'm currently on a temporary assignment in Brooklyn, NY helping respond to the COVID19 pandemic. Brooklyn has a large Russian speaking population and I've really enjoyed shaking the rust off of my speaking skills while I'm here. In addition to my language skills, my studies of Russian culture has really helped me connect with and help my patients on a deeper level. My Russian education introduced me to the world's of literary legends, such as Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy, and Pushkin. These still remain as some of my favorite authors of all time, and I recommend their works to anybody who wishes to see the world through new lenses.Following the completion of my Russian degree at the U, I moved to Birmingham, Alabama to complete my BS in Nursing. I now work as an ER Nurse in Charleston, SC. I'm currently on a temporary assignment in Brooklyn, NY helping respond to the COVID19 pandemic. Brooklyn has a large Russian speaking population and I've really enjoyed shaking the rust off of my speaking skills while I'm here. In addition to my language skills, my studies of Russian culture has really helped me connect with and help my patients on a deeper level. My Russian education introduced me to the world's of literary legends, such as Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy, and Pushkin. These still remain as some of my favorite authors of all time, and I recommend their works to anybody who wishes to see the world through new lenses.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

I enjoyed visiting professors' office hours and talking about grammar and as well as other topics. I certainly owe a lot to Dr. Grünbaum, with whom I have been in many office hours and to whom I was able to ask hundreds if not thousands of grammar qeustions.To be honest, all of the German faculty: Dr. Baumgartner, Dr. Metz, Dr. Gerstenberger and Dr. Grünbaum should be recognized for their passion and how they accomodate to students learning needs and are there for them in the event that they need some/extra or any help. I am grateful for all of the German faculty and how much they have helped me thoughout my time here, not only in terms of German language, but also their advice.

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

Live in Germany and continue to speak and study German everyday.

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

Remember that you are good enough. You will still be understood if you make mistakes. We all make mistakes, and it is only through making them that we are able to exceed above them. Keep your passion for the language; you don't know what could happen as a result of it.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

The Language Intensive program in Oviedo, Spain was transformative. I would love to return soon and see all the friends that I made over there in that magical pocket of the world that will always feel like home.

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

This summer, I plan to travel through Europe and Asia. When I return, I plan to move out of state to work in the law and study for the LSAT.

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

Language isn't just an academic subject, it's a tool for genuine human connection. Use the program at this University to find the intricate beauty of your language(s), and seek out opportunities to use the language to help and connect with others.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

One of my favorite experiences so far was authentic French cheese tasting in Anne Lair's symbolism of French food class! It was super fun to get hands-on experience seeing and tasting French cheeses while also learning about their origins and characteristics. The baguettes served alongside the cheeses also helped make the experience super Frenchy.

I'm also currently interning with the Utah Museum of Natural History helping translate some tour materials into French. With this project, it's been fun to integrate French with the community, knowing that what I'm working on will be useful to someone in the future.

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

After graduating, I hope to explore the many career paths that my French degree will offer me! I am really interested in English/French translation and interpretation and would love to include that in my career. My wife and I hope to spend some time living in (or at least visiting) France or other areas of the French-speaking world. We then plan on starting a family together after we are both graduated and want to continue to stay in the Salt Lake area for the time being. Connecting and engaging with the French-speaking immigrant communities here in Utah also interests me.

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

Learning French is definitely intimidating and overwhelming at times. There are so many different grammar rules, sentence structures, verb conjugations, and new vocabulary to memorize. Literally thousands of things to learn and try to keep in mind! But to me, in a way, that is also the beauty of French and language learning in general - you'll never stop learning new things. When you take the time to really engage yourself often with the wide world of French, both in school and outside of school, you’ll pick up on new words, new expressions, and new connections that can increase your desire to keep learning more! Just the fact that there is always something I can gradually improve on and get better at with French makes me excited to keep going with it! It really does offer you a lifetime of learning, practice, and constant improvement, something that you can keep with you wherever you go.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

I was awarded an FLAS Scholarship which due to COVID I used for a virtual study abroad through Harvard Summer School. It was an amazing experience and I learned so much!

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

I plan to enter the workforce in Engineering, but hope to use Chinese in my career.

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

Some of my most fun classes and professors have been in this program, but you get out of it what you put in, so if you are hoping to learn a lot, you have to put in some effort.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

It isn't easy to capture all of the special experiences I feel I've had, but every class I participated in felt like finding a new window to look out from, seeing a fresh breathtaking view each time. I've felt so much joy studying Japanese. Learning the intricacies of the language and culture has been a satisfying struggle. I feel immense gratitude to have been guided by such wise and kind professors while discovering greater depths of language and literature, and likewise my passion for them.

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

The future often feels like a wide horizon; Where are we now in the scheme of things? Where are we headed? I trust in knowing that metaphorical islands await, regardless of direction. I plan to further my education in Design and Japanese studies and someday work in Japan. I can't wait to return to Japan, now with eyes to see even more than I did before.

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

There is always more to learn, but encourage yourself to have that be a point of excitement rather than discouragement. Exercising curiosity has led to some of my most rewarding and inspiring learning experiences. Give yourself the best opportunity to blossom; Take advantage of tutoring, CLAC courses, clubs, and special events. Share what you know with humility and confidently absorb all you can! 応援していますよ！

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program?

One fun experience I had was being able to research Slavic Folk dances and create a dance of my own which was presented on stage during the Ballet Student Showcase.

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

I will be joining a professional ballet company.

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

Use your language skills to learn more about subjects you are interested in. This will not only broaden your knowledge of the subject but also aid in learning the language faster.

What was a fun or unique experience you had at the U related to your language program? 

My undergraduate experience would be nothing without all of the faculty at the Russian department. They are phenomenal, and I am so appreciative and grateful for the work and enthusiasm they put forward in their courses. I doubt I would have been able to progress as far as I have without their tutelage.

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

I plan to pursue a career working in government service as the best place for me to employ my expertise, at least until such time as other opportunities arise!

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

You have the best people in your corner working every day to support you. Utilize them as best you can, they are an incredible resource.