Student Voices

Jean Louise Brody, ‘11

Jean Louise Brody fell in love with the German language and culture when she was still in high school; she spent a year abroad her senior year.

"I became so attached to the language and culture that is becoming increasingly Americanized," she says, "so I decided to make it my mission to preserve it."

She wants to spend her career instilling that love in others. She plans to teach at the high school level, and has a double-major in German and English with a minor in secondary education.

In 2008, Jean Louise won a research scholarship from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), a publicly-funded independent organization of higher education institutions in Germany.

"I was surprised that I was awarded this generous scholarship," she says. "I was only a sophomore when I applied and I suggested a rather touchy subject of research. I researched the development of the evangelical faith in Germany in comparison to the United States. The benefit of my scholarship was incredible. I was able to attend conferences all over Germany to see what fellow researchers were finding. I was deeply impressed by the meeting of 500 scholars from around the world in Nuremberg, Germany. I was awed to be around such incredible people."

On campus, Jean Louise has enjoyed challenging courses and individual attention from a dedicated faculty that includes Target Language Experts.

"The teachers are extremely capable and willing to tailor the lessons to the students’ needs," she says. "The department is aware of the importance of having native speakers, not only for the language aspect but also to correctly represent the cultures. The Target Language Experts are an amazing addition to the Modern Language Department."

Favorite professor: "I think the group of professors I have had are very eclectic. Each has his or her strength and weaknesses. I have usually gotten along very well with all my professors as they each have a sense of humor along with understanding."

Favorite class: "There is a lot to say about the classes I have taken here. I have always learned something, be it big or small. Each class is a module of memories with unique lessons, surroundings and people. I enjoy the language courses that subject me to new and interesting concepts and the beauty of words, but I am grateful for the general education classes that broaden my knowledge so I don’t become a Fachidiot."

Toughest class: "A class is only tough when I do not take enough time or effort to understand it. I guess that makes my toughest class Time Management 101 because it is a challenge to focus just on homework, when there is so many activities to do."

Favorite spot on campus: "Carthage is just all around gorgeous. Walking to class is always a little meditation. I love looking at the lake. WOH’s place is great for hanging out. The lounges are great for late-night study gatherings. The river is underappreciated, but it is wonderful to walk by."

Biggest surprise so far: "I think my biggest surprises were during my time abroad. Even being able to go abroad was quite a delightful surprise. I am not so much as surprised as amazed by my fellow students here at Carthage. My days are constantly brightened by their kindness and humor."

Student Voices

Chinese

Jessica Fisher, '13

"I knew that if I knew Chinese, I would have a better chance of getting jobs because it is such a worldwide language."
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Vanessa Valentine, '13

"The biggest surprise to me is how much I have learned — not only academically, but also personally. I am a better person now than I was two years ago."
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John Gutt-Jankowski, '14

By studying both Chinese and Spanish, John said that when he graduates, he will have learned three of the most important languages in the world.
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Valerie Hathaway, '13

"The Chinese program is filled with professors who enjoy teaching their students the language."
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French

Jesse Daniel, '12

"I never realized how many doors are opened through studying abroad. Living in another culture, you become part of it, and are no longer a tourist."
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Emily Kolesar, '12

By studying both French and English, Emily has been able to mature as a writer.
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Diane Hahn, '14

"The Modern Language Department truly has made my learning experience an enjoyable one, and I can't image going to any other college because I'm afraid I'll be disappointed in this aspect."
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German

Anna Treudt, '13

"Both in German and archaeology the willingness to learn is what separates you from the others. That might sound uninteresting and a little daunting, but when you find something you like, you enjoy it."
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Karin Wirth, '13

Karin Wirth was raised with a rich German Heritage, which led to her love of the language. She is also a DAAD scholarship winner and a tutor for the Modern Languages department.
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David Rosenberg, '12

"The openness of the professors and their willingness to help struggling students" are among the Modern Language Department's biggest strengths.
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Ronald Harris, '12

Ronald is pursuing a minor in German, after studying the language since kindergarten.
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Japanese

Jennifer Weiss, '14

"Our businesses are becoming more global by the day, and Japan is one of the top countries America does business with. I want to be as prepared as possible when it comes to doing business with Japan."
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Spanish

Elizabeth Reinhardt, '12

"It's difficult to really learn a language if you don't actually use it. Studying abroad is the only way to really immerse yourself in it entirely."
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Andrea Winbigler, '13

"Carthage really became my second home and all the people here have become my second family."
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Read student voices from graduated students.