High School: East Canton
Major: Spanish
Why did you choose to pursue Spanish at Mount Union?
Spanish was not my first choice. I started out in Dairy Science. I realized that God had bigger & better plans for me: to be a Spanish teacher & have an impact in the lives of our youth. So, I transferred to Mount Union. I made the right chose.
What types of jobs are available for students who share your major?
Those who are Spanish majors can do a variety of things such as, translation, working abroad, working in the business arena, or in a big city. The demand for Spanish speakers is out there & steadily growing. My minor is multi-age education. I am hoping to teach Spanish locally, to start with at least, in grades 6-12; however, I am certified in Ohio for grades Pre-K through 12.
How will you use your degree upon graduation?
Upon graduation in May, I hope to acquire a teaching job to begin in the fall. I look forward to opening the world of Spain to my students. Culture is amazing. When I am finished, I will have studied aboard for four months in Costa Rica, visiting Nicaragua & Panama, & hopefully, doing my student teaching in Puerto Rico for three months, visiting the Dominican Republic. I have had amazing opportunities to experience a variety of countries to have first-hand experiences to back up my degree. The world is a huge classroom!
What activities are you involved in?
In college, I am involved in SNEA & am a member of Alpha Mu Gamma national foreign language honorary. I am also in the Teacher Education Program. I help out also with endorsing study abroad with the International Studies department when needed. Outside of Mount Union, I am very involved in my church, Greenwood Christian (Canton, OH) as a youth sponsor & Sunday school teacher. In my hometown, I also do a lot with the cheerleading squads of all ages. I have also worked part-time throughout most of my time in college.
Elements a person should possess to succeed in your major?
Majoring in a foreign language is not easy but very rewarding when it all comes together. A person needs to first & foremost have a love for the language and an interest in its culture. Another language takes a lot of time and practice. One must always be willing to try new things or go out on a limb, whether it be speaking or going abroad. Be prepared for your life to be changed in an amazing way.
What advice can you offer for someone who is considering having the same major as you?
Be patient in learning the language; it will take years. You know more than you think you do. Travel abroad. Take all the opportunities you are given and enjoy them. I am just at the beginning of this chapter in my life. The world is just opening up to me. A foreign language will take me big places. Live it up!