Modern Languages and Literatures

How did you explore your interests and decide on a major/majors?

I have always been interested in language and travel, ever since I was a little girl. I remember that our neighbors in LaGrange, Illinois, were from France and they gifted me a small Eiffel tower. At Lake Forest College, I particularly loved the First Year Studies Program. My class was Dostoyevsky and the Russian Novel in which we read the Brothers Karamazov. I loved how Professor Carla Arnell was so knowledgeable about Russian literature.  We had a field day to Russian Tea time in the Loop which was such a nice way to start my time at Lake Forest.

Describe a moment or experience you had in college that helped define your career path:

What I really loved about Lake Forest was all the International students that arrive every year. I had friends from countries I didn’t even know existed! I have been working internationally and with international students ever since I graduated. I was very lucky to have studied abroad in Rennes (France) during the spring semester 2017. I learned so much about myself and how to navigate living in a foreign country. I also had an amazing time at my internship in French at the Quebec Government Office in Chicago. They were a wonderful employer who made me feel included in the office culture. I also received some hands-on work experience through them.

What steps did you take at Lake Forest College to prepare for your career?

I took advantage of the Career advancement Center. I regularly scheduled appointments with them to tweak my resume and attend networking events. I learned some great tools for starting my career after graduating.

What role did your internship play in shaping your career path?

My internship at the Quebec government office in French is an impressive addition to my resume. It helped me gain experience with international stakeholders worldwide. I still mention my experience in interviews and cover letters.  It was a great stepping stone to what I’m currently doing.

What would you recommend Lake Forest College students considering a career in your field do to prepare?

If you would like to work in a higher education setting, I would recommend working for a department at Lake Forest College and asking questions of your supervisor. Ask them about how they like their job and how they started working in higher education. If you would like to work for a government office, multinational company or consulate, I would recommend networking as much as possible. Create a comprehensive profile on LinkedIn and look out for job postings.

How did the Department of Modern Languages, other departments, Career Advancement Center and/or the Forester community give you an edge on taking your first steps after graduation?

I was very lucky that I can count on my former professors, such as in the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, for any recommendation I needed for employment. They were always very happy to send a recommendation. I received so much great advice from the Career Advancement Center, and I am in contact with other alumni if I ever need to go to them for advice.

What have you found the most rewarding in your career and life after graduation?

I was so grateful for the opportunity to teach abroad in South Korea. I needed a bachelor’s degree to participate in that program. After Lake Forest, I knew that I preferred working in Higher Education. I was fortunate to start my new position at DePaul university. I still value working in Higher Education, and it’s one of the best choices I have made in my career. I hope to visit Lake Forest soon to catch up with my former professors!