Dima Salih (2026): Double major MOFL-Arabic and Biology

 Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Foreign Language concentrated in Arabic has immensely shaped my academic career. First off, taking Arabic classes during undergrad highly contributed to improving my fluency skills. I’m now able to speak, comprehend, read, and write Arabic much better than I did before my time at JMU. On a personal level, I’ve found myself able to immerse myself more into my culture by surpassing the lingual barrier I once faced. My enjoyment of Arabic music, as well as learning history behind traditions and cultural practices, and feeling more connected to other Arabic speakers has skyrocketed. These classes helped me feel confident about cofounding the first Arab Student Association at JMU. Doing so helped me find my place at JMU, but also helped others feel like they belong by providing a way to connect to their cultural roots and heritage. Pursuing this degree has opened opportunities for me to apply to teaching positions in predominately Arabic speaking countries as well as be a more appealing applicant in other fields due to my bilingual skills. 

Hana Mahyoub (2026): Psychology Major, Arabic Minor and Honors Interdisciplinary Minor

Learning Arabic gave me an entirely new and rare lens on understanding my field and the world. Because of the language skills I developed, and also because of the history and politics courses ingrained into the Arabic minor curriculum, I was able to find a niche interest in my own field of psychology that I’m now examining at the highest level through starting my PhD directly out of undergrad. Without the support of Arabic faculty and my friendships in the close-knit student community, my JMU experience would have been entirely different.”

Fernando Mendieta Bravo (2025): Double major International Business and MOFL-Spanish, Business Spanish minor

Studying Spanish in the Department of World Languages and Cultures has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at JMU. I’m incredibly grateful for the support and guidance I received from the faculty; their encouragement shaped my growth both personally and professionally.  

Being part of a smaller academic cohort made it easy to build strong relationships. The professors really got to know us, and we got to know them, not just as teachers, but as mentors. Having some of the same professors across different classes only strengthened those connections.  

My Spanish interpretation internship showed me just how powerful language can be. Thanks to what I learned in my Spanish courses, I was able to bridge communication gaps and help members of the community in meaningful ways.  

Thank you for everything this department has given me.

Natalie Reitano (2025): English major, French minor  

When I started at JMU, I hadn’t planned on declaring a foreign language minor, but after taking a few French classes, I quickly realized how much I enjoyed it. Studying French at JMU not only deepened my understanding of the language and culture but also opened doors to new academic and professional opportunities I never expected. The professors are incredibly supportive, and the classes are both challenging and rewarding. Choosing to continue with French has been one of the best decisions I’ve made here.  

Diego Caballero Casanova  (2025): French Major, International Business major, Business French Minor

My experience studying French at JMU was truly transformative. Beyond learning the language and strengthening my communication and adaptability skills, I found a deep sense of belonging. The connections I formed with peers and faculty who shared my passion for language and made the experience even more meaningful. JMU provided me with the linguistic and cultural fluency to pursue professional opportunities at home and abroad.

Danilo Lemaic (2023): Biotechnology Major, Pre-Medicine Minor, Medical Spanish Minor

Choosing to pursue a medical Spanish minor at JMU was one of the best decisions I made during undergrad - it diversified my academic experience and opened many doors for me down the line as a pre-medicine student. Learning Spanish helped me connect with Harrisonburg’s Latino community throughout my clinical experiences. Not only did it allow for easier communication with Spanish-speaking patients, but it also fostered stronger relationships. The skills I learned as a medical Spanish minor at JMU have extended beyond undergrad and will continue to play a significant role in my medical career.

To anyone thinking about picking up a language major/minor, I couldn’t recommend it enough. Small class sizes allow you to form tight-knit communities with your peers and professors, and the faculty are dedicated to equipping you with life-long tools that will aid you in your career.