Cara Omohundro

My time studying French at William & Mary has impacted me far beyond my knowledge of the language itself. Every class I've taken has challenged me to see the world differently, shaping me into a more mindful, curious person. I've enjoyed the uniqueness of subjects I've studied in French, from hidden colonial histories to philosophies of plant thinking and finding happiness. As an aspiring marine biologist, all of these perspectives have impacted my goals for the future and the way that I approach science as a whole: I've learned to take into account the diverse ways people depend upon the ocean as a source of life and culture alike. After graduation, I aim to begin my career in research, studying some of the earth's most essential and delicate ecosystems. I aspire to use the perspective I've gained as a marine science and French student to contribute to impactful, collaborative research that influences conservation efforts around the world.
On a personal level, the French language community at W&M has been so supportive and welcoming. I've made friends through my classes and my time in the French House that I know I'll keep for life. When I had the opportunity to read the Marquis de Lafayette's honorary degree in French at the 200th anniversary of his return to Williamsburg, I realized how special French history and culture are to the W&M community, and it was an honor to play a role in reconnecting them. I'm incredibly grateful to all my professors–Professor Pacini, Professor Compan, Professor Leruth, and Professor Brehm–who have encouraged me to follow my path in French just as much as marine science. Looking back at the freshman who was unsure whether she could pursue all her passions, I couldn't be happier with my choice to do it anyway