Prospective Students

Jaqui Hernandez-Martinez

DSAS ’25 Spanish Major, Rhetoric and Communication Major, Portuguese & Luso-Brazilian Culture Minor, Certificates in Latin American Studies and Global Health 

“Going into Pitt, I knew I had to look for my own community that could make me feel at home. The Spanish and Portuguese Department gave me that and more. As a daughter of Hispanic parents, learning proper written and spoken Spanish was very important to be able to serve my community. Although Spanish is my native tongue, through Pitt’s program I was able to sharpen my writing skills and expand my literature knowledge. As a sophomore, my hope was to only minor in Spanish. However, thanks to the amazing professors within the department, I was advised on becoming a major. Becoming a Spanish major would later lead me to becoming a Portuguese minor, an opportunity that has opened many experiences both in my personally and professionally. With my knowledge in Spanish, I have been able to work with many organizations in translation and interpreting. My Portuguese skills have allowed me conduct research in Brazil and complete a study abroad in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As I look back at my four years at Pitt, the Spanish and Portuguese professors and advisors have always opened many doors for me, and I can only imagine that they will continue to bring forth their passion for teaching to the incoming students.” 

Niosha Parvizi 

DSAS ’25 Spanish Major, Chemistry Minor, Conceptual Foundations of Medicine (Undergraduate) Certificate, Portuguese & Luso-Brazilian Culture Minor

"Pitt's Department of Spanish and Portuguese means the world to me. As a Spanish major on the Pre-Med track, I have seen firsthand how essential language is in medicine and healthcare. Being able to communicate with patients from diverse backgrounds leads to better, more compassionate care. Through my coursework, I have gained not only language skills but also a deeper understanding of cultures, perspectives, and global issues.

The department has given me the opportunity to explore fascinating topics and connect with peers who share my interests ... many of whom have become close friends I know I will stay in touch with for years to come. The professors are inspiring, supportive, and deeply committed to their students’ growth, which creates a welcoming, home-like environment.

I am incredibly grateful to be part of this community. The experiences and relationships I have forged here have helped shape both who I am as an individual and the kind of physician I aspire to become. I look forward to continuing to apply what I have learned, both linguistically and culturally, in real-world medical settings."