Student Profile: Brittany Rice
Brittany Rice knew she wanted to study Spanish, but a study abroad trip to Peru and Ecuador made her realize her true passion for the language.
"As a Spanish major I traveled to Peru, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Argentina, where I made many new friends and connections," the Negaunee senior says. "This program opened my eyes to a different world and gave me the courage to travel alone to Guatemala in the spring of 2007."
The major also allowed her to explore not just the Spanish language, but the culture and history behind the language.
"I have several interests and like to be well rounded, and after taking a few classes I realized I was learning a lot more than just a language," she says. "As a Spanish major I study history, culture, literature and politics -- just about everything having to do with Latin America."
Rice says her major has allowed her to improve her public speaking, reading and writing skills in both Spanish and English. Because she has had to read, write and speak in Spanish, she has found her English classes much easier.
“As a Spanish major I study history, culture, literature and politics — just about everything having to do with Latin America.”
Though uncertain about a definite career path, Rice says she feels that speaking Spanish will be useful in any field she pursues. She is looking to work with Latin Americans on human rights issues.
The sociology minor was attracted to Alma by the opportunity to study abroad and participate in various campus activities.
Rice is involved in the Alma Leadership Alliance, and is a member of the cheerleading team, the dance team, orchestra, choir, Alpha Phi Omega (a service fraternity), Alpha Gamma Delta (a social sorority) and Sigma Delta Pi (a Spanish honorary fraternity).
