Louisa Weindruch
![](https://www.smu.edu/-/media/Site/Dedman/Departments/WorldLanguages/Alumni/WorldLanguagesWork/Screen-Shot-2017-11-16-at-11,-d-,52,-d-,33-AM.png?h=551&la=en&w=980&hash=003CEE781D47A1D64EF8FCD97BB62808)
Major: Biology / Health & Society
Minor: French
Graduation Year: 2017
“My name is Louisa Weindruch. I’m from Washington, D.C. and I chose to major in Biology and Health & Society with a minor in French. I am currently a medical scribe in the Emergency Department at Parkland Hospital, and I plan to apply to medical school."
Why did you choose to major/minor in a World Language?
I chose to minor in French because as a biology major, having a well-rounded liberal arts education was very important to me. I had had great experiences with the lower-level French classes at SMU, and I also had always dreamed of studying abroad in Paris.
How do you think studying a foreign language helped to prepare you for your career?
By studying French, I was able to have so many unique experiences relating to healthcare that have prepared me for my career. While studying abroad in Paris, I worked in a research lab studying digestive cancers. Back at SMU, I completed an independent study to take the DFP Médical, a professional exam which certifies my knowledge of French in healthcare settings. Lastly, studying French greatly improved my communication skills and cultural competency, both of which are critical for a healthcare professional.
What advice do you have for other students thinking about majoring or minoring in a foreign language?
Absolutely do it! I never would’ve imagined that I would have had the experiences I did as an undergrad, and it is all because I decided to minor in French. If I could change one thing about my college career, I would’ve made time in my schedule to turn my French minor into a French major.