Melanie Jacqueline Baca-Ortiz

How did you choose your specific area of study?

I was attracted to the MA in Foreign Languages program because it offers classes such as Hemispheric Mediascapes and Methods of Literary and Cultural Studies which cover a range of topics, including but not limited to, the history of Latin America, literature, popular culture, media, and gender studies. The Department of Modern and Classical Languages professors strongly encourage all students to provide feedback on courses they have taken. I especially appreciate that the professors take into account students’ interests and opinions when deciding on course offerings for the following semester and in hiring faculty members.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

I am proud of all of my accomplishments, especially this nomination from my faculty.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

Professor Ellen Serafini and Professor Lisa Rabin have made a difference in my Mason career. I am so grateful for them and could have never accomplished this dream of obtaining my MA in Foreign Languages without their mentorship.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

I strongly encourage future applicants to reach out to both faculty members and current students to know more about the MA in Foreign Languages program at George Mason University. In addition to this, future applicants should attend a graduate course to familiarize themselves with the class structure, interesting class discussions, and challenging assignments.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

My current career plan is to work in diplomacy for the U.S. Department of State.