Department launches mentoring program for undergrads

Submitted by Stephanie N. Welch on

We are very happy to announce the very first “mentoring lunch” with Germanics alumni and current majors. This event, which we plan to make a regular feature of the program, had a very promising kick-off on October  21st, 2014 in the UW club.  Evan Elise Easton-Calabria (class of 2009) joined three German majors for a lovely chat over sandwiches.  Present were our bright young seniors, Lauren Nemitz, Alex Phengsavath, and Sophie McDonnal. The students and Evan exchanged stories about themselves, their passion for German, and their aspirations for the future. Evan, who has used her German to further her successful career in international development (you can read more about her here), was extremely helpful and engaging partner for the UW seniors.  She not only gave them concrete practical advice and useful links and connections for their particular interests, but she also inspired them with her enthusiasm about the many ways that German has enriched her personal and professional life.  Evan, meanwhile, says that “It was wonderful meeting Sophie, Alex, and Lauren! I really enjoyed our conversation and learning a bit more about what has drawn them to the German Department as well as what they’re interested in beyond it!”  The students called the lunch “helpful” and “eye-opening.”  One student was grateful for the many “ideas about the multitude of opportunities my German major provides.”  “Evan,” she went on,  “ inspired me to seek out and make the most of those possibilities.”

undergraduate mentoring program

left to right: Sophie McDonnal, Lauren Nemitz, Alex Phengsavath

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