Newly graduated student of French, Soraya Dutto, shares how she fell in love with the French language, what she will miss the most about her classes, and advice for current students.
“While French was only my minor, I really connected with the program during my senior years. FHIS is where I hold the closest friends and fondest memories from my degree.”
How did you fall in love with French?
My grandmother is French, but I did not pay a lot of attention to the language in high school beyond basic core French courses. As I got older, I found that seriously studying the French language was an amazing way to connect with my heritage and my family.
What will you miss the most?
While French was only my minor, I really connected with the program during my senior years. The Department of French, Hispanic and Italian Studies (FHIS) is where I hold the closest friends and fondest memories from my degree. I love the community in the FHIS classes. Because it is a smaller program, I recognize the same students and professors, which makes me comfortable and eager to participate and learn from my peers. I will really miss the amazing people I met at this department. I had great conversations with so many students and professors and was able to learn so much from them.
What advice would you give to other new language learners?
My advice is to immerse yourself in the language as best you can—read books, watch shows, and join clubs in your target language! And, most importantly, participate in class!
Any parting messages for the Graduating Class of 2023?
Thank you so much for making my time at UBC memorable! Bonne chance à tout le monde !
