Keri Iles

Anthropology Major with French minor, 2007

Currently in Alaska
From Fairbanks, Alaska

“As humans, our language and words are our best way of describing and organizing our environments and our realities. For me, studying French at UAF was more than just lesson in conjugating verbs, passe simple and all the letters NOT to pronounce in ‘beaucoup‘. It was an introduction to the logic, history and culture of the French-speaking world and I loved it. It was a jumping off point for my further travels, adventures and language studies (MA) both during and after college. Each of my French professors had their own unique and excellent way of engaging and teaching their students to advance.

I would encourage any student to take the opportunity to learn a foreign language and pursue new cultural experiences; the French department at UAF is the perfect place to do it. You never know where you might end up or the wonderful people you will absolutely meet along the way. If you don’t believe me, I’ve got a passport full of stamps and more amazing friends world over than I can keep up with!”

Keri pursued her MA in Environmental Sustainability at the University of Stockholm, where knowledge of at least one foreign language is required. She is now working as an environmental consultant, primarily in Alaska. Her favorite experience in the French program? French Theater!