"In language classes, we often got to know each other on a more personal level than in other classes, simply because you must as you practice the many ways that language expression works!"
Major(s) and Certificate(s): Spanish and Art History (BA), Spanish (MA), Spanish (PhD)
Language(s): Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, French
Graduation Year: 2006, 2009, 2017
What motivated you to study this/these languages?
I nearly became a Russian major after taking really engaging introductory classes, but finally decided to major in Spanish after a year abroad in Madrid (2005-2006) during which I took class in the Prado museum of art, cementing my combined passions for art history and Spanish. As a native of Madison, WI, and coming from a family of Badger alums, it wasn’t unexpected for me to simply continue studying at this world class institution. I went on to complete my MA and PhD as well at UW.
What do you remember about your UW language classes? How were they different from other classes you took?
Language classes always created a sense of community. I found other folks who were curious about the world and interested in exploring — music, art, food, theatre — THROUGH language. In language classes, we often got to know each other on a more personal level than in other classes, simply because you must as you practice the many ways that language expression works!
How valuable were your out-of-classroom experiences? How did they add to your undergraduate experience/coursework?
My year abroad definitely cemented my language skills and my desire to pursue graduate degrees in Spanish.
What have you done in a professional capacity since graduating from UW-Madison?
I have taught at several institutions since graduating with my PhD — I’ve taught at Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, and Northeastern University previously. Currently I am a Teaching Assistant Professor of Spanish and Director of the Spanish MA Program at Idaho State University.
What are ways, either expected or unexpected, that your language study has benefited you in your career?
It’s a bit obvious how language has benefited my career. But beyond my career, language benefits my everyday life! Once, I interpreted a friend’s wedding ceremony on the spot. Another time, I helped a Delta agent interpret for a family in the airport looking to get home to Mexico after a delayed flight in Spokane, Washington. Also, my son is 6 and has just started kindergarten at a Spanish immersion public elementary school — an experience my spouse (who is also a Spanish MA and PhD from UW-Madison, and who is also a professor of Spanish) and I sought out because of how our family values language. I have also volunteered at the local library district in Spokane to lead bilingual storytime.
How have you maintained or improved your language(s) since graduation?
I strive to improve my language skills every day. I continue to travel, mostly to international conferences to dialogue with colleagues and in order to continue improving my language skills. I like to listen to podcasts to maintain my Portuguese, and I pick up children’s books in Russian and Portuguese from the local library.
What advice do you have for students who are studying language(s) about how to incorporate their interests and skills into their future goals?
Language skills will benefit you in myriad ways! They are applicable to every job and every realm of life. Languages are like windows to other people and cultures.