I've chosen to major in World Languages and Cultures with an emphasis in Spanish because it is my goal to be as fluent in Spanish as I am in English. I grew up speaking Spanish and English and I can speak, read, write, and comprehend both fluently, but my English is a lot stronger since I grew up speaking it more than Spanish. I feel that it is my duty to better my Spanish so that I can go back into the community both locally and internationally to serve those who are disenfranchised and without a voice. I want to create positive social change in this world, and my focus right now is Latin America. I want to be the voice for the many Latin Americans all over the world who are being oppressed and undererpresented by their governments. That is why I have chosen to partner the WLC Spanish major with a Global Studies major. Watch out!!
~ Gabriela Yamilet Orantes, Sigma Theta Psi Multicultural Sorority
I chose WLC as a major because I have had a passion for learning about the Spanish language since I was young. I wanted to better my ability in Spanish and, in the process, I developed a great interest in literature from Latin America. I liked the fact that the study of the culture of the language you are learning is built into the major as well. I also liked the cross-cultural component, where you learn about at least one other culture different from your concentration.
~ Jessica Holt, Santa Rosa, California
Being able to study a foreign language in a small, personal setting has been a terrific experience. I am very proud to have participated in the exchange program that we have with Obirin University in Tokyo. I feel confident that the language skills I have acquired at CSUMB and Obirin will serve me well in my life as a postgraduate.
~ Bryan Hollar, Davis, California
I decided on a WLC Japanese major because I'd always been interested in language and Japanese in particular, and never had the opportunity to study it until college. I value the experience I've had here greatly, and after graduation I hope to be able to travel to Japan with JET or another teacher exchange program and continue my education. It will be an amazing and perspective-changing adventure to live in a new country.
~ Lisa Ferreira, Marina, California
I decided to major in WLC Spanish because it gave me the opportunity to learn more about my language and culture. It also gives me a gift with which to help the Latino community—my community. How? I plan to become a translator in a company or an organization that can help the Latinos.
~ Maria Guadalupe Marquez-Martinez, Salinas, California
Revised 5/26/05