Elliott Durham

  My experience in the French department really blossomed through the encouragement of my professors, without whom I wouldn’t have even really considered, much less declared, a French major. I’ve had so many wonderful opportunities throughout my college experience thanks to the French program, such as studying abroad in Montpellier, taking fascinating courses on French culture and history that have become some of my favorite classes, and working as a teaching assistant to share my joy of learning languages with other students. I was able to travel to Cévennes National Park in southern France for an independent research project in combination with my other major, Integrative Conservation, which was one of the highlights of my time at W&M. My incredible travels, the support from my professors and especially my advisor Professor Pacini, and the opportunity to present my research at the Fête de la Recherche are some of the fondest and most rewarding moments from my past four years. I’m eternally grateful for these experiences and for the welcoming community of the department, and I will carry these lessons and memories with me long after graduation!