Yu
Program: Honors Specialization in German Language and Culture
Fourth Year
Extra-Curricular Involvement:
German Language Tutor at the Department of Languages and Cultures
International Learning Ambassador at Western International
Community Service and Academic Internship at the German Language School London
Why did you choose Arts and Humanities at Western?
I came to Western without knowing what I want to do in the future. In my first year, I did an “experiment” by taking courses in as many different subjects as possible; I eventually found what I was really interested in a German language course taught by Professor Vladimir Tumanov. Then I decided to join the Department of Languages and Cultures and has consequently began my pleasant journey of exploring world literatures and cultures.
What is one highlight of your Western experience so far?
I think there are two things particularly worth mentioning. Above all, I feel extremely lucky to meet great
professors (especially my two mentors, professor Vladimir Tumanov and professor David Darby) in the department, who have constantly inspiring and encouraging me. Further, I went on exchange in Germany in my third year. This experience helped me to grow both academically and personally.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to attend graduate schools (Comparative Literature or Literacy Studies) in either North America or Europe, and eventually dedicate myself to academia.
What advice would you give to incoming Arts and Humanities students?
I think most importantly, everyone should enjoy the upcoming four years and believe in the value of their studies. Arts and Humanities is perhaps not the most popular field of studies these days. Yet we are learning the sophistication of human mind and acquiring a sense of world-openness; those will eventually provide us with a bigger vision of the world and many other lifelong benefits.
What is the best thing about your department?
I would say professors who highly value themselves as teachers. University is a place where facilitates reciprocal inspiration between professors and students. Being a professor is not just about being a good researcher. All the professors that I have met in my department are very supportive because they love teaching. I think the passion for teaching is just as important as the ability of researching.
