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Union University

Languages, Literature, and Writing

Department of Languages, Literature, and Writing at Union

Our Alumni

Ryan Sinni "Union challenged me by exposing me to the riches of the Christian intellectual tradition. In terms of my profession, Union prepared me for success by training me to read literature insightfully, hospitably, and theologically. More broadly, Union helped me develop a holistic philosophy of life that shapes my decisions beyond the workplace."

"Union provided me with like-minded peers who prayed with me, comforted me, and challenged me. I also built relationships with faculty members whose wise advice shapes my thinking to this day. Because of my Union education, I see my work as an English professor as integrated with my Christian faith. Beyond the workplace, I continue to use my knowledge of biblical Greek to understand the Scriptures."

Ryan Sinni ('18), Assistant Professor of English, LeTourneau University

Janey Berends "One thing I love about Union is that I don't have to choose between faith and intellect. Students are taught to acknowledge and explore our Christian beliefs as they relate to what we learn in the classroom. It is a gift to be able to learn from Christian professionals in my field."

Janey Berends ('18), Spanish and Applied Linguistics graduate, Fulbright-English Teaching Assistant at the Universidad-Nacional José-Maria-Arguedas in Andahuaylas, Peru

"My time at Union University has challenged me and blessed me in ways that I could not have imagined. The language department professors have played an integral role in my learning experience both academically and personally. They have been extremely supportive - believing in me from the start while encouraging me to do and to be my best as I have sought degrees in both Nursing and Spanish. Their influence in my life has been indispensable over the last four years, something for which I am incredibly grateful and will always remember with joy."

Haley Bell, Nursing and Spanish Major

Gracie Pratt "One of the most formative parts of my Union experience was being taught and mentored by professors who really cared about me and my future. Their investment in me beyond the classroom helped me develop my gifts and set me up for a career doing what I love."

Gracie Pratt ('14), SEO Writer at Ramsey Solutions in Brentwood, Tennessee

"I loved my time in the Language Department at Union! I learned so much in my Spanish classes. One of the most helpful classes for me was Phonetics and Diction. My accent and speaking flow improved because of this class. I also enjoyed learning about the different Spanish-speaking countries and cultures. One thing I appreciate about the program is the opportunity to study abroad. I lived in Peru for a summer and it was an amazing experience! The professors are very knowledgeable and personable. It's apparent that they enjoy teaching and interacting with the Language students. My four years in the Language Department prepared me for my graduate studies. I am currently in a Bilingual/Bicultural Masters of Social Work program, and without my preparation at Union I would not be here."

Megan Miller ('13), Spanish and Social Work Major

"I chose to minor in Spanish to improve my understanding of the language and to complement my nursing degree. Union's language department was challenging and engaging. The professors were obviously passionate about what they taught and they took a genuine interest in my success. One of the most influential courses was Dr. Martin's Phonetics and Diction. This class pushed me beyond my comfort zone, improving my ability to correctly speak Spanish. Dr. Martin made the class engaging and entertaining as we wrestled through rolling r's, splicing syllables, and deciphering different accents. Thanks to the Language Department, I have a better understanding of Spanish and am more comfortable conversing with native speakers."

Rebecca Sperry, Nursing Major, Spanish Minor