An update from Julia Martin, freshman French teacher education major.
I didn’t realize I would be interested in learning another language until I started taking French in high school, and ever since then I have developed a passion for French language and culture.
I am so thankful to be able to pursue my education at Illinois State University. The professors are extremely helpful and they do everything they can to help their students succeed. I am currently talking three French classes which focus on three different aspects: grammar, literature, and culture. I am also a part of Pi Delta Phi which is the French Honor Society, and I am very grateful for the opportunities and the French community that it has provided me. In addition to French, there are many ways to get involved on campus. I am involved with the campus ministry group, Encounter, and have met many wonderful and encouraging people there. It has provided me with opportunities to reach out to people on campus and in the community as well as grow my faith.
In addition to having professors who have such a heart for helping their students, the French classes have a smaller amount of students. This is perfect for engaging the whole class in conversations and getting to know students to create friendships with others who share a passion for French. The French program at ISU has challenged me and helped me to grow in my pursuit of learning French.
I have not yet had the opportunity to study abroad, but I am planning on spending my sophomore year in Angers, France.
After I graduate from Illinois State I want to become a French teacher so I can inspire a love for the French language and culture in others. I think it is a beautiful thing to be able to open our minds to other ways of thinking and living through learning about different cultures and languages.
