"...I expected to have my world enlarged by the experience but never imagined it would be altered completely..."
Alumna: Rachel TenHaaf, '04
Majors: Spanish and Business
Current position: PhD student at the University of Michigan
When I initially enrolled in Spanish classes at Calvin, I expected to have my world enlarged by the experience but never imagined it would be altered completely. Nonetheless, I am eternally grateful that this turned out to be the case since I could not be happier with where I am today. One of the most crucial formative experiences I had was my study abroad in Spain, a time where I not only greatly strengthened my linguistic skills but also had my first contact with Spanish art and literature. Thanks to this, I am currently working on my doctorate at the University of Michigan where I specialize in Spanish and Portuguese literature and visual arts (film, photography and painting). As a result of my studies, I’ve been able to travel to quite a few different places including several different Latin American countries and all over the Peninsula. I’ve taught, met artists, writers, and even a few foreign politicians. So far, my Spanish major has brought me much personally and professionally, and I know this will continue on into the future.
I’m quite certain I wouldn’t be where I am today if the Spanish department hadn’t made it possible. From the extra help that anyone cramming an entire major into one year needs to the enthusiastic support I received when I graduated and decided to keep going, the faculty helped facilitate my path along the way. I’ve learned that one never knows where one is going to end up, but I’m definitely enjoying the journey.
