Alex Johnson-Buck '07
2003 - 2007
I double-majored in French and chemistry at NMU. From a practical perspective, the in-depth study of a foreign language honed my ability to critically analyze my statements for accuracy, clarity, and nuance, skills that are essential yet often overlooked in natural sciences. More broadly, my upper-level courses in French literature, film and culture, as well as a directed study of the social underpinnings of riots then occurring across France, forced me to reach beyond stereotypes (such as myths that the French are rude and hate Americans) and appreciate the complexity of foreign cultures, an immensely important ability in our ever-shrinking world. I believe my studies of French at NMU have greatly enriched my academic and personal pursuits, and will continue to do so.
My experience in a French-speaking area during or after my studies at NMU is limited to a 2004 course, FR 438 Cultural and Artistic Heritage of Europe with its trip to the Netherlands, Belgium and France. However, my wife, Lauren (who also participated in the FR438 course) and I hope to visit France (and possibly Belgium) again, perhaps after graduate school.
Alex went on to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he explains his “knowledge of French in particular enabled [him] to communicate and connect with francophone colleagues in [his] department until they became confident in their English skills”.
