World Languages and Cultures
French Minor Program
Our language programs integrate language and culture at all levels. While practical use of French is essential, language learning in the liberal arts tradition also means deep reflection on the interdependence of language and culture.
French Minor AT A GLANCE
90
Of employers say they rely on employees' skills in languages other than English.
13
Average size of first-year language classes
Why study languages at Allegheny?
Put your language skills to work
Because, as a French minor, you'll have a major in another discipline, you'll have a head start at putting your language skill to work in your chosen field.
Get more "talk time"
Allegheny's small classes mean you have more time to practice the language in class
Close-knit community
You'll get to know other language students, and be part of a community of students who love language in and out of the classroom
A 4-year Journey into Language and Culture
A French minor will engage you with French-speaking cultures from day 1, and will keep improving your language skills until graduation and beyond. Plan ahead for all the opportunities before you!
Get the basics in language & culture. You can start from the very beginning if French is new to you, or if you've studied French before, we'll make sure you start in the right class to make the most of what you already know, while still building a solid foundation for the coming years.
In your second year, you'll continue to make your way through intermediate courses. This is a great time to reach out into the French-speaking community on campus, if you haven't already -- maybe try having lunch at French table once a week, or apply to live in the French house in the Max Kade Wing, where you'll speak French all the time and have a native speaker for a roommate! And don't forget to declare your French minor before the end of the year!
Many language minors want to study abroad, and your third year is a great time to do that. Be sure to talk with your major advisor early so that you can fit a semester abroad into your plans, and talk with the International Education Office and your French faculty to choose the right abroad experience for you!
By your fourth year, you've hopefully had an unforgettable time abroad, and you're moving toward advanced skills in French and a deep understanding of French-speaking culture. Even though it's might not be required, maybe these skills and experiences can enrich your Senior Project in your major! As you finish up your last language courses, now is also a great time to develop habits for lifetime learning by asking faculty for help finding opportunities to engage with French on your own.
French Minor Learning Outcomes
"What will I be able to do in French if I minor in it?"
Converse
You'll be able to understand and participate in a wide range of conversations and spoken situations
Share
You'll be able to talk about your activities, preferences, feelings, knowledge, and opinions, and ask others about theirs
Analyze
You'll be able to read, interpret, and talk about a variety of types of texts
Understand
You'll know about the institutions, politics, geography, and history, customs, and other aspects of culture in places where French is spoken
Keep Learning
You'll learn to use your language and cultural knowledge to communicate better, so you continue to learn throughout your life
Maria Mervine, Alumna
Class of 2018, Psychology Major, French Minor
“ The most amazing and fulfilling experience I have had since I became a student at Allegheny is the internship I participated in during the summer after my sophomore year in Fismes, France. … I was able to meet the wonderful people living in that small community, practice and strengthen my French-speaking skills, and live with the most amazing and welcoming host family. ”
“The most amazing and fulfilling experience I have had since I became a student at Allegheny is the internship I participated in during the summer after my sophomore year in Fismes, France. I learned about the internship through one of my French language professors, and I hurriedly applied. Through this internship, I traveled first to Paris and learned all about the history of the city for several days, and then I traveled east to Fismes, France, which is a small town just west of the city of Reims. There, I was able to work in the Office of the Mayor and help them prepare for their inauguration of a historical monument honoring the lives of American (specifically Pennsylvanian) soldiers who rebuilt the collapsed town during World War I. A connection between Meadville and Fismes has endured ever since this period, and I am so grateful that I was able to meet the wonderful people living in that small community, practice and strengthen my French-speaking skills, and live with the most amazing and welcoming host family.”