 |
Maude Genest-Denis (Class of 2008; Honours Political Studies / Major Modern Languages with concentrations in German Studies and Hispanic Studies / Minor International Studies)
Moin moin!
My name is Maude Genest-Denis and I graduated from Bishop’s in June 2008. When I started my studies here, I could barely communicate in English and I was a pretty shy person. 4 years later I’m now able to have great conversations in English, French, German and Spanish.
I am now currently working as a French Teacher Assistant in the Integrierte Gesamtschule (high school level) in the north of Germany. Learning German was a whole different experience for me, both in terms of linguistics and cultural aspects. Everyone will tell you that it’s not an easy language to learn, but it is definitely worth working for it! I’ve decided to put the most effort possible and used every opportunity the German department and Bishop’s would provide me to improve my German skills while having fun. I’ve participate to the yearly German weekend in Mont St-Hilaire, Stammtisch at the Lion’s Pub, Kulturstunde with the German assistant and acted in the German theater of 2006, “Die Schildbürger” by Erich Kästner.
The small-sized classes and the close relationship with teachers make Bishop’s the best school to study languages. It is easy to get in contact with the international students coming from various countries and practice your language skills. Teachers are very dynamic and open-minded, resulting in very interactive courses where your opinions are always welcome!
Moreover, Bishop’s has established great partnerships with other universities across the globe. Thus, an exchange during your studies is easy to undertake and is always greatly suggested while studying languages. I used my year of exchange to practice both my German and my Spanish, as I did the first semester in Regensburg, Germany and the second in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The amount of paperwork is nothing compared to the great benefits of such a full year. Studying in another country is not only about learning a new language. It is also the opportunity to work in a different cultural environment and to broaden your mind. Traveling is one thing, living abroad is something else; it’s developing the abilities to work in a multicultural context.
Being able to speak several languages is the extra tool necessary for an international career. With four languages in my portfolio, I’m confident to find a fulfilling job in an NGO or at the governmental level... or maybe continue my studies at the Master’s level when I come back from Germany. One thing is sure: there are lots of doors open for me, thanks to my studies at Bishop’s.
 |
 |
