Western French Alumni

“One of the best things is that classes are small and very hands-on. There were also many cultural activities outside of class that reinforced what we had learned in class. This also provided students with opportunities to meet other students and many guest speakers. I feel that the French major at Missouri Western prepared me well for a future job using both my degrees. I can now go out into the workforce with an edge—being multilingual can only help one’s job opportunities.”

    --Rachel Euchner, BA French, Journalism, 2009. Employed by the French Ministry of Education as a
       teaching assistant. Plans graduate study in France.


“I studied French for one and a half years at Missouri Western, and spent much of that time struggling to choose a career path that I felt suited me. In the Spring of 2007, I studied abroad in Angers, France for one semester. As I immersed myself in the French language and culture during this time abroad, I came to realize that languages truly open doors to new worlds. Each new word learned led me to new people, places, and insights into the culture of a country that, after only a few months, no longer felt ‘foreign.’ My time abroad changed everything: I came back with a dramatically altered worldview and a certainty that, no matter what career path I chose, languages would be my focus. “

    --Brean Reiley, BA French, Spanish minor, 2009. Employed as an interpreter. Plans graduate study in
       interpretation or French literature.

“Studying French provides you with several benefits. Not only do you become more aware about the world and other cultures, but you are also better prepared to compete in the job market as the effect of globalization increases. Proficiency in a foreign language can greatly enhance your resume and make you more marketable when searching for a job. While French allows you to learn more about history, literature, and the English language itself, learning to speak French also opens the world up to you, as you then become able to communicate more effectively with the numerous francophone countries.”

    --Alyssa Smith, BA French, BS Business 2009. Currently in MA French program at the University of
       Missouri

“Speaking another language like French sets you apart from others. Today many people have degrees from accredited colleges, but when you enter the work-force you have something that other prospective employees do not have. That's the professional side of learning French, but personally I love the sophistication of the language and experiencing French literature and art the way the French do.”

    --Bryana Harrah, BA French, BS Criminal Justice, 2008. Currently in MA Criminal Justice program at the
       University of Missouri Kansas City. Career goal: to work in intelligence for the U.S. government.


“Studying French was the best decision that I ever made. French is used in many countries and has come in handy during my travels. Knowing another language broadens your horizons and shows you different cultures and lifestyles. Knowing French opened my eyes to new ideas and has helped me become a well-rounded person. To anyone who enjoys learning and experiencing new opportunities, I would recommend studying French. Life only becomes better when you know French. Imagine the people and places you will see. “

    --Melina Paden, BA French, 2005. French teacher.