To give you a quick background, I was a 2005 Graduate of SJU with a Double Major in German & Psychology and I also took part in the SJU Salzburg program in 2003. I choose to be a German major at Saint Johns because it was something I truly enjoyed. However, I didn't think it would take me to where I am today. I learned quickly post-graduation that having language skills can lead you into amazing careers with international exposure. I have spent the last 4 years working and living in Germany as a Regional Manager for a Minnesota based medical company simply because I had experience as a German major and studying in Salzburg through Saint John's. In this time I have developed my German language skills beyond what I ever thought was possible. I have also been afforded the opportunity to travel throughout Western Europe and the rest of the world, because of my continuing exposure to International work experience.
To be living and working again in Germany and Austria after spending a semester there during my Junior year has been amazing. I return to Salzburg on a monthly basis for work and I am still able to meet with and catch up with old friends that I had met there in 2003. I would encourage everyone taking German courses to continue to pursue German as a major or 2nd major for the simple fact that it can only benefit you post-graduation. Having foreign language skills and international experience separates you from everyone else applying for jobs or graduate schools.
