An update from freshman history-social science secondary education major and Italian studies minor, Julia Durnell.

I’ve always thought other languages were fascinating and whenever bilingual friends would go from talking English to talking in another language, I would become extremely impressed. So, coming from an Italian family, I knew Italian would be the perfect language for me to learn.

As an Illinois State language student, I am not in any conversation hours, yet, but I do plan on becoming a part of one next year to better my skills in Italian. So far, though, I love my Italian class. For the last 2 semesters, it has been my favorite class and I look forward to it every day!

My favorite part about having an Italian studies minor is knowing that I will eventually be able to speak fluently with those who speak this beautiful language. I love my classes and especially LOVE my professor Laura Edwards. She makes Italian such a fun class and truly makes me love the language even more.  I have not studied abroad, but I would love to!

After I graduate, I would like to become a high school teacher, but I would also love to travel through Italy (or Europe in general) the summer after graduation.