Modern Languages and Literatures

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

Since childhood, I have always been fascinated with languages and the cultures tied to languages. During secondary school, I began studying French and continued through college. At Lake Forest College, I had the opportunity to major in French and International Relations as well as study abroad in Paris. These opportunities opened my eyes to the endless possibilities to use my acquired knowledge as well as further growing my passion for languages and cultures.

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

Studying abroad in Paris changed my life. Prior to Paris, my plan was to move to South America, where my family lives, and start a career there. However, my plan changed after France. At first, I did not enjoy Paris, but after a few months I realized that France/Europe was where I wanted to live. I knew that in Europe the opportunities to utilize my expertise in international relations would be limitless.

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

I took multiple language and history classes to better understand the background of societies around the world.

What role did your internship or or study abroad play in shaping your career path?

Studying abroad in France was a turning point—it sparked my passion for the French language and European culture, and ultimately led me to pursue my Master’s degree in Europe. After graduating, I worked as a consultant for the UN agency, the International Labour Organization (ILO), in Lima, Peru. That experience laid the groundwork for my next steps, which included roles in the private sector in both Germany and France. Today, my husband and I have created our own real estate business in France, specializing in short-term rentals. Without the foundation of those early international experiences, I might never have moved to Europe, completed graduate studies, or built a business here. It showed me that opportunities are truly endless when we stay open, adaptable, and committed to learning.

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

I would recommend that all students in international relations master at least one additional language, reading, writing and verbal, aside from their maternal language. Also, I would recommend that students take some business classes to give them an edge in the field, as well as take advantage of any available international study or work opportunities.

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

The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures, especially Professor Hahn, and Off-Campus Programs pushed me to always to do better and excel in anything I pursued. This departments and office strongly encouraged me to study abroad and reach for opportunities that seemed unattainable. Once abroad, I was forced to step outside of my comfort zone which ultimately allowed me to gain more confidence in myself and my abilities. When I graduated, I was not the same transfer student from two years prior. I knew what I was capable of, and I was no longer afraid of taking on challenges. Had it not been for the MLL department and Off Campus Programs, I would not be applying myself to opportunities and challenges in the workforce today.

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

From 2016 to 2017, I had the opportunity to volunteer for a non-profit organization in Chincha, Peru. There, I taught extracurricular activities, helped the children of the town with their studies, and assisted the director with any translation or administrative work needed. This experience was one of the most rewarding opportunities I’ve had since graduation, and my studies completed at Lake Forest College helped me to fully take advantage of it.