Jack Wilson

Minor in German

Current Occupation: Reporter
Current Location: Montreal, Canada
Program: Bachelor of Journalism/24

Why did you choose this particular language?

It was kind of a random choice to be honest.

Your Learning Experience

We really became a tight knit group, especially toward the end of the program when we were meeting three times a week. We would often meet for a drink in the week. Several of us were in Europe on exchange at the same time and a few of us spent a memorable weekend together in Berlin. Two people from the class continue to be good friends.

Did you travel to another country as part of your university experience?

Yes. I went to Denmark and it was honestly one of the best experiences of my educational career. I made lifelong friends, was exposed to a new culture and built a lot of confidence in myself and my ability to adapt to new situations.

How have you used the language after graduating?

I’ve used a little German on trips to Europe, but not as much as I would like to. But I feel an attachment to the language and am seeking new opportunities to work on it.

Why study a second or additional language?

Studying a language is a very good break from regular university courses. It activated a very different part of my mind than the rest of my studies. Instead of an intellectual pursuit, it’s a very elementary form of learning where you’re learning the mechanics of writing and conversation while being exposed to a new culture.

Your personal experience of studying a language at university

I now have a grasp of a language that very few Canadians do, an insight into German culture and a bit of humility when thinking about language learning in general. I learned French from a very young age, so studying a language for the first time in university reminded me how complex language can be.