Editor’s Note: This is the thirteen in a series of 18 stories about this semester’s Principal’s Recognition Award winners who were recognized on Wednesday, April 20 for outstanding achievement in specific programs. Senior Kristen Younan received the World Languages Award and was nominated by Mr. David Maletesta. 

Studying a foreign language for some can be one of the most unbearable tasks. Staring at your teacher in awe as they confidently speak a different language and barely understanding a word can be frustrating. For senior Kristen Younan however, studying Spanish for 6 years has become something she greatly appreciates.

Younan was nominated by Spanish teacher David Maltesta for the Principal Recognition from the Foreign Language department. For Younan, the honor of being recognized was more than enough.

“I was really honored to be nominated and recognized as a good student,” Younan said. “I was actually really surprised to be nominated for Spanish, but it made me really happy that Mr. Maltesta felt as though I deserved this award.”

What Younan finds to be the most intriguing part of learning a foreign language is the approach it takes for one to master the language.

“Spanish has helped me throughout my high school career because it requires you to use a different kind of thinking to learn it well. To be able to speak another language is an amazing thing, as it allows you to connect with a new group of people,” Younan said.

The hard work ethic Younan displayed did not go unnoticed by anyone, including her teacher.

“Kristen is always consistent in her studies in Spanish and works really hard. She is also really easy to get along with other students and gets along with them very well,” Maltesta said.

While the future for Younan may have little time to practice her Spanish in the professional world, it is communication that will be key.

Next year, she will be attending University of Wisconsin – Madison to pursue a career in the medical field and become a physician.

“Being able to communicate is going to be a vital part of my life whether it be in English or a different language,” Younan said.

“Kristen is always consistent in her studies in Spanish and works really hard. She is also really easy to get along with other students and gets along with them very well,” Maltesta said.

Previous installment in the series:

Josie O’Shaughnessy – http://www.nileswestnews.org/features/principals-recognition-award-josephine-oshaughnessy/