HHHS World Language Department Welcomes 47 Inductees into Honor Societies
The World Language Department at Hendrick Hudson High School celebrated the induction of 47 new World Language Honor Society inductees. These French, Italian and Spanish students at HHHS, who were honored on April 25, 2024, have demonstrated significant achievement in their second language study as well as a passion for learning about the culture of their respective languages.
“Members of the World Language Honor Society recognize the intrinsic link between a language and its cultures as well as the importance of language study in our global society,” HHHS World Language teacher Antonietta Gliubizzi said. “Inductees actively engage in community service and promote language and culture studies in our school community.”
Each year, teachers choose the best essay among the ones submitted by each new inductee to read during the ceremony. This year’s French essay was authored by Elizabeth Apienti, who wrote: “The study of language is like a manual that opens a door to the world. Just as we use a manual to guide us in discovering how to connect the bits and pieces and create something beautiful, languages help us to make connections and understand the world around us.”
The Italian essay was written by Kaitlyn Barrera, who pointed out the importance of challenging ourselves and moving out of our comfort zone.
“The study of language — no matter what language — is incredibly important in schools because it puts students in contact with different cultures and traditions through communication,” Barrera wrote. “Until I started studying a new language, I had never realized how restricted I was with only two languages. Being bilingual is perceived as an accomplishment in this country. However, I can say, ’The more the better.’ Studying Italian and knowing Spanish and English already has given me the opportunity to learn about other cultures.”
“This was a beautiful event where parents, administration and teachers came together to celebrate the accomplishments of our World Language students,” Ms. Gliubizzi said.