Justice-seeker

Allie’s high school trip to Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands helped her decide to major in Spanish. She had long wanted to work as an immigration attorney, and the trip helped her realize she could be a better advocate by being able to speak her clients’ language. As she prepares for law school, Allie is also majoring in political science and minoring in TESL (teaching English as a second language) and cultural studies. She keeps busy as a Spanish tutor, student ambassador, member of the Student-Athlete Leadership Team, student government representative, and all-conference and academic all-district member of Northwestern’s competitive cheerleading team.

Pursuing excellence

Spanish classes consistently have pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t imagine. The high expectations in the classroom have helped me develop both confidence and precision in my Spanish. My professors have intentionally poured into me to help me understand the language as well as appreciate the culture that comes with it. They want to make sure students understand the humanity behind the language and to embrace connecting with other cultures.

Influential faculty

Since our Spanish classes are smaller, professors are willing to challenge us more in class. We get to know our classmates and professors very well. The professors are extremely passionate about teaching the language, making learning even more exciting. The faculty want to know your goals and help you achieve them. They have been encouraging yet have challenged me to grow in both my faith and my academics. Being able to study with professors who are committed to serving God through their teaching has been eye-opening.

Hands-on

I have had multiple internships and hands-on experiences with immigration and Spanish-speaking members of the community that have deepened my understanding of the legal process of immigration and the cultures of different Spanish-speaking countries. The classes I have taken in both the Spanish and political science departments helped me have a basic understanding going into these internships, allowing me to have the skills necessary to jump in and help.

Deepened faith

Through chapel twice a week, Praise + Worship on Sundays, discipleship groups, and so many more opportunities, I have grown in my faith immensely. It has been refreshing to live and study alongside fellow believers, as we build each other up in each area of study God has called us to. In addition, the opportunity to attend student-led Spanish chapels on campus has opened my eyes to worshiping the Lord in a different way.