We’re asking students, recent grads, teachers, and counselors five questions on how languages play a role in shaping personal and professional success…
Meet Tate—a Nebraska Wesleyan University '26 graduate aspiring to a career in medicine.
What factors most influenced your decision to double major in Modern Language (Spanish) and Biology?
Having built a strong foundation in Spanish during my four years in high school, I wanted to continue developing my language skills in college. I initially pursued Spanish as a minor, but over time, I recognized how applicable the language was in my daily life and in my future career. I saw how fluency allows you to connect with people, break down cultural barriers, and open doors to new opportunities.
What was the best (or most surprising) part of taking your first language class at the college level?
The most surprising and rewarding aspect of my first college-level language class was seeing how Spanish is used beyond the classroom, especially in the media. We explored the language through music, movies, sports, and other forms of media, which helped me understand its real-world relevance.
We’d love to hear more about your experiences with language tutoring at Nebraska Wesleyan University!
At Nebraska Wesleyan University, I have participated in conversation tables, luncheon events, and tutoring sessions focused on Spanish. I often attend conversation tables with native speakers to continue improving my own skills. Additionally, I work with lower-level students, helping them develop their conversational abilities, grammar, and vocabulary.
What I enjoy most is the collaborative nature, both teaching and learning at the same time.
Would you encourage other pre-med students to consider adding languages to their coursework? Have you been able to apply your skills to your work beyond studies thus far?
I strongly encourage other pre-med students to incorporate a language into their coursework: Learning a language develops problem-solving and communication skills that are highly transferable to the medical field.
In many ways, advanced science coursework feels like learning a new language, so this experience is incredibly valuable. Additionally, Spanish, with its Latin roots, has helped me better understand anatomical and medical terminology.
Beyond academics, I currently work at a gastroenterology clinic in Lincoln, Nebraska, where I have had the opportunity to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients and healthcare professionals. This has reinforced how vital language skills are in the workforce and medical field.
Please tell us about your study abroad trip to Salamanca, Spain! What was your biggest takeaway from that experience?
Studying abroad in Spain allowed me to fully immerse myself in both the language and the culture. Through this experience, I developed greater independence, strengthened my problem-solving skills, and built meaningful relationships with people, such as my host family. My biggest takeaway was gaining cultural competence and improving my speaking skills and vocabulary.
In what ways outside of the classroom do you use your Spanish skills—any tips?
I use my Spanish skills in a variety of everyday settings, including with friends, at work in the clinic, while traveling, and when meeting new people. I also listen to many different genres of music in Spanish.
My biggest tip is to never stop speaking and practicing. Another tip is to find ways to incorporate the language into your everyday life, such as through music.
What’s your favorite word in Spanish? What does it mean and why did you choose it?
My favorite Spanish word is “la madrugada,” which refers to the time between midnight and dawn. I chose this word because I enjoy the way it sounds. It's also an interesting word because there is no direct equivalent in English.
Explore more student & recent grad voices across our blog. And, as always, visit @LangConnectsFdn on social media to share your story with us.