By Regina Stracqualursi ’15
At Siena, students are able to complete individual research projects related to their specific interests and professional goals. Part of this experience includes the presentation of research. This year, 19 liberal arts students completed research and participated in the College’s first Symposium in Modern Languages and Classics.
“We hope that students participating in the Symposium gain public speaking experience and confidence as they share their critical analysis of global issues with their peers, the Siena community, and the general public,” said Associate Professor of French Nathalie Degroult, Ph.D. “Since our department embodies diversity, we strive to encourage Siena students to engage in conversation about worldwide issues not just in class but also outside of the classroom.”
English and classics double major Anna Vescio ’15 participated in the symposium. She spent the semester working on a comparative paper in which she looked at Achilles and Harry Potter to draw conclusions about ancient and contemporary heroes.
“It was nice to work on a paper with a different purpose in mind than class work,” said Vescio. “Since this project was highly self-motivated I got to work on something that hit on all of my interests.”
French major Taylor Fanelli ’15 also presented her paper at the Symposium. Her research focused on the history of film and how films have been used to illustrate societal issues.
“The Symposium was a very rewarding chance to celebrate my hard work over the past four years,” said Fanelli. “The research was interesting and it was a great opportunity to practice public speaking in a professional setting.”
The event keynote speaker was Chair of Modern Languages and Literatures and Professor of Spanish and Hispanic Studies at Union College Christine Henseler. During her lecture, Henseler urged students to see the value in their studies, despite the fact that arts degrees are often criticized.
“I have great hopes for you and your creative minds,” said Henseler. She urged students to continue their research and communicate their work to a larger audience.
The symposium was sponsored by the Department of Modern Languages and Classics, Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity, Diversity Action Committee, Damietta Cross-Cultural Center and School of Liberal Arts.
