Although I am not even sure of my path as a science major, the G.O.A.L.S. of STEM EE Scholars and Honors and Scholars in general will remain at the core of my future. Global Awareness and Academic Enrichment are two very prominent pillars of G.O.A.L.S. that I hope to use to further my success. With a French minor in my future, I have a large incentive to be exposed to other nations through studying abroad. Studying abroad counts as Global Diversity for obvious reasons, but it also can bee seen as out-of-classroom Academic Enrichment. I believe that exploring the myriad of cultures that come with the language is half of learning a language. Being able to speak, write, and listen in a foreign language is important, but understanding the culture behind the language fills in the area below the surface—leading to a more intellectual comprehension. For me to truly be satisfied with my minor, I want to be able to explore such cultures, and because there are so many francophone countries, I must start my journeys right away.

Within the next year, I hope to study abroad to France and Morocco through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Not only will this voyage immerse me in different culture from the US, it will also encourage me to think critically about the various cultures within the countries themselves and their histories. Along with my in-class teachings of french literature and language, I will be able to physically see and be a part of the culture behind said literature and language. I will also be able to gain perspective on the culture of another french-speaking country. This is valuable academic enrichment because most of the in-class learning associated with french is in regard to France; having the unique experience of visiting another french-speaking country will broaden my horizons more than the classroom typically would.

Hopefully by four to ten years’ passing I will have taken advantage of the countless study abroad opportunities Ohio State has to offer by visiting France and multiple francophone countries. However, after graduation I do not wish to end my travels. I will continue to expand my experience with Global Diversity by visiting as many countries as I can reasonably manage. As always, such trips will always enrich my academics while I’m in undergraduate school and beyond, whether I am studying french or chemistry.