MLL makes 'Waves'

Like waves, languages span the globe and touch many people. Such was the thought behind choosing the name “Waves” for a new magazine produced by the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures.

Printed copies of the annual publication will be used by the department. An online version is available to everyone on the MLL Department website. “We want Waves to be an example of the excitement that can be gained by pursuing languages at Grand Valley,” said Jessica Miller, a senior writing major hired as editor.

The magazine showcases the work and success stories of students, faculty, staff and alumni from MLL, and features about the personal and professional benefits that can be gained by studying languages. The publication is the outcome of an idea by MLL Chair Majd Al-Mallah, associate professor of Arabic. He worked throughout the summer with Miller to brainstorm ideas and gather support and information from other faculty and staff members and students.

“We often think of studying languages as leading to careers in translation, interpretation and such,” said Al-Mallah in his article introducing the magazine. “The reality is that learning a language and a culture can open the door to a wide range of career options. Employers are seeking well-rounded individuals, particularly those with a second language.”