Caitlin Whitfield

About Caitlin

Why did you choose this program?

My mother was an HSU Graduate and I always knew I wanted to move back to the redwoods. I studied abroad twice during my four years at HSU and ultimately decided that Spanish Education was what I wanted to do in my heart. Plus, I get to travel the world and use my degree every day!

How did this program prepare you for your job?

The Spanish Education program at HSU prepared me in more ways than one. I had the opportunity to travel abroad to both Costa Rica and Spain during my time at HSU. I became fluent in Spanish through my studies and travels and these opportunities have helped me become the teacher I am today. I now have the chance to teach my students the importance of language learning and get to share my personal stories with them in hopes of inspiring them to travel and learn another language!

What did you enjoy most about the program?

I had to opportunity to meet professors/students from all over the globe and the classes I took opened my eyes to so many new topics I never even imagined I'd learn about in college, including Latin dance, poetry, and performing arts.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

Take this opportunity and run with it! I was able to live abroad for a year during my time in college and traveled all over Europe in between. Learning Spanish has given me so many opportunities I never thought I would have and for that I will be forever grateful. After I graduated in 2013 I joined the Peace Corps and served for three years in Costa Rica. The opportunities are endless!