Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM because it was a university close to home, and I previously had good experiences attending events on campus during my high school years so I had a sense of familiarity going in.
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I chose my major in Spanish once I enrolled in the university, but I also majored in Music and Computer Science at one point. I chose Spanish specifically because I come from a Mexican household, and for most of my life I had Spanish skills but they weren't as developed as I would have liked for them to be. So I chose Spanish to be able to communicate more effectively with my family and as a way to connect more to my culture.
What would you tell a high school student about your major?
I'd tell them that a major in Spanish, or studying any language in general, is very rewarding. You're able to communicate with more people and you're able to make connections you otherwise wouldn't have been able to make. One of the most important things for them to know if they're interesting in pursuing Spanish or any other modern language, it's that it takes so much time to develop fluency in another language. But with enough dedication and time-investment, you'd be surprised at how effectively you can read, write, and speak in another language.
Why is your department a special place?
My department is a special place because the professors and instructors at the department are very supportive and welcoming. They create space in their classrooms to foster a unique and friendly language learning experience.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you've taken that has had the most impact on you?
A professor that has had the most impact on me has definitely been Dr. Carmen Sanchis-Sinisterra. Her excitement for teaching the language is so contagious, and she is always her students' number 1 supporter. She's always been around to help me through academic difficulties and she's been one of the most supportive and caring professors I've had at the university.
What has been one of your most memorable or enjoyable moments at UM?
My most enjoyable moment definitely was when I started attending El Café de Los Lunes. Getting to proactive my Spanish and speak to other people while making new friends has really enriched my experience at the university.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
My plans after graduation are to go to graduate school to pursue a Master's in Spanish. I am also interested in the NALCAP program, where I would go to Spain and teach English for a year. After graduate school, I'll try to get certified as a medical interpreter or teach English to Spanish speakers.
Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford? What are your hobbies, favorite places to go, etc.?
I enjoy spending my time in Oxford with my group of friends mostly. I also really enjoy just sitting at coffee shops to get work done or to read for my classes. In my spare time I enjoy playing Dungeons and Dragons, running, and watching good horror movies. Sometimes I also try to go to concerts hosted at Proud Larry's or The Lyric, those are always a fun time. My favorite place to go in Oxford is Caffecitos on University Ave. Best coffee in town.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
The college journey won't be easy, but it's so worth it. Learn to take the good with the bad, and don't worry about what other people have to say. You'll find your ride or die people here and you'll keep them with you for the rest of your life. And most importantly, have fun!
Need to Know More?
Ask a question by using the form below.