Kenny Sobek
Kenny is a PPP and German double major, who is working as a Critical Infrastructure Intelligence Analyst for IntelliBridge in Washington D.C.
How did your major contribute to preparing you for your current career?
When most people ask this kind of question, they want to know if you actively use your language skills to support your job. However, languages contribute much more to your career than simply its use. The knowledge of a second language can reveal a lot about job candidates. It can demonstrate to potential employers that you are adaptable, aware of other cultures, able to apply skills in real-life situations, and able to communicate effectively. It also demonstrates one’s commitment to learn about other cultures and contribute to diplomatic efforts not only in government, but in the private sector. Languages remain valuable assets for public service and companies in the U.S. Additionally, my knowledge of German is not only a skill, but it has become part of my professional identity, which I am proud to express when interviewing, networking with my colleagues, or connecting with people across the German-speaking world.
How did your major influence your worldview?
My major in German exposed me to new ways of thinking, political perspectives, philosophical disciplines, and cultural experiences. U.S. and German history has been increasingly intertwined since the early days of our country. To better understand German is to better understand our own history, our origins, and how the U.S. evolved since its founding. German has also helped me to better understand and communicate with other cultures, not only in Europe, but around the world. Languages allow us to expand our worldview, which is critical in our increasingly globalized economy and society.
How did your major help you cultivate interests and passions that extend beyond your career to a rewarding personal life?
Though I pursued education and internship opportunities post-undergrad, my career path eventually led me into the homeland security and intelligence field. Even so, my knowledge of German has remained a big part of my professional and personal identity. I had been interested in German since early grade school, as I found it to be a fascinating connection to my ancestry and family history. Majoring in German was a primary goal and accomplishment for me during my academic experience at Xavier. It was a culmination of the years I spent learning the language and is something I am still proud of today. I am fortunate to have been a part of Xavier’s German program and to have had the opportunity to have German be a part of my education.
Tell us how study abroad fit into your plans, academically and/or professionally.
Opportunities to study abroad was a critical factor in my decision to attend Xavier. I knew that studying abroad was a goal of mine ever since my first experience in high school. I participated in a semester exchange with the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt in Bavaria, Germany, where i was immersed in German culture, language, and participated as a member of the university’s student body. I took courses in economics, history, and language, but also made life-long friends. I can easily say my semester abroad was one of the highlights of my education and time at Xavier.
What advice would you give to a student considering a major in German?
From my experience at Xavier, the university supports students and their desire to pursue their interests and academic goals. If you are interested in German, it is a fantastic skill to have in just about every field. It also complements many other programs offered at Xavier, since many of the world’s largest companies are based in Germany. Whether nursing, biology, political science, or business, German provides even more opportunities to enhance your academic career and increase your competitiveness in the workforce.
If you are passionate about the German language, pursue every opportunity to find a career or education opportunity that will allow you to cultivate you skills and understanding of the language. However, even if your early career does not include German, do not be discouraged. Read German news, join language clubs, and schedule calls with friends to keep your skills ready. Languages always look good on a resume, and you never know when you may need to support your organization with some timely German!