Katie Hegarty

Executive Assistant to the Chief of Staff and Central Ohio Liaison at Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted's Office

How did your major contribute to preparing you for your current career?

I work in public service, specifically for the State of Ohio. I serve, help and interact with different types of people every day. My German major has prepared me for my career by allowing me the opportunity to experience a different culture and language at a younger age.

I was fortunate enough to study abroad during my time at Xavier, and I fully immersed myself into the German culture. This included everything from learning how to use public transportation, to experiencing a new healthcare system when I was sick. I learned how to open a German bank account and use their banking system. Everyday tasks like going to the grocery store or ordering food in German were challenges I faced, and I quickly had to adapt.

As my language skills and general understanding of another culture progressed, I was able to succeed in a new, foreign environment. These life skills have been fundamental in where I am today.

 

How did your major influence your worldview?

I am very interested in other country's current affairs and respective governments. I consistently watch and listen to foreign news outlets to keep myself informed. With a background in German, I believe I have an unique perspective and insight to key issues happening around the world. When considering foreign policies, opinions and leadership styles, I like to remain open-minded. 

 

How did your major help you cultivate interests and passions that extend beyond your career to a rewarding personal life?

I believe my major has cultivated my love for traveling. I have visited Germany and several other European countries on multiple occasions. I am always looking for a new place to visit or vacation. I love to meet new people, try new food, and see new things.

 

Tell us how study abroad fit into your plans, academically and/or professionally?

Studying abroad was one of the most rewarding experiences I've ever had. I would encourage anyone who is interested to do so as well. I went to Germany in the spring semester of my junior year. 

German spring semester was from April-July, and it perfectly aligned with the start of Xavier's fall semester. Prior to leaving at the end of March/beginning of April, I had a couple months where I had no classes. I was able to get a job back home and save money for my trip. When I returned at the end of July, I was able to take some personal time to prepare before the start of fall semester of my senior year.  

 

What advice would you give to a student considering a major in German?

If I could give any advice to students who are considering a major in German, I would recommend double majoring with a degree like business, international studies, or international economics. I personally had a double major in German and International Studies, and I was able to expand my areas of expertise. I believe with diverse double majors, there is more opportunity for a future career.

I would also recommend that any potential German major should keep taking German classes even when they have already met the credit requirements for graduating. I continued to take German classes after I met the requirements to graduate with a German major, and I think it truly paid off. There were 400 level courses, such as German Literature and German Fairy Tales, that I didn't need to take, but they were fun to learn about and interesting. Also, it further improved my language skills and taught me about a part of German culture I wouldn't have known about otherwise.