Name: Neta Kanny

Department: School of Modern Languages

Title: Academic Program Manager

Hometown: Dunwoody

Degree(s): B.A. Spanish/Portuguese, University of Georgia; M.S. Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies — Spanish, Georgia Institute of Technology

Who had the greatest influence on your education and/or career path?

I would say that my parents have been the greatest influence on my education. They have always pushed me to pursue my dreams. In terms of my career path, I would credit that to my incredible language professors that I’ve had along the way, from seventh grade to the graduate level. They’ve all motivated me in their own ways to understand the importance of language and culture to connect our globalized world.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I love that I not only I get to work with my diverse faculty and students in the School of Modern Languages, but that I get to engage with those from schools and colleges across the Institute. Most importantly, I greatly enjoy being a part of students’ language and culture journeys, whether I issue a course permit for a language course or answer questions about our various study abroad programs.

Why did you decide to work at Georgia Tech, and what's the best part about working here?

I decided to pursue work at Georgia Tech while completing my Master’s degree with the School of Modern Languages. I knew I didn’t want to leave after graduation! The best part about working at the Institute is the diversity of interests and people. I learn something new every day from our fabulous faculty, staff, and students.

What moment in Modern Languages/at Georgia Tech stands out as the most memorable?

The moment that stands out to me as the most memorable at Georgia Tech was getting to graduate with my brother a semester apart. While I studied language, and he studied computer science, Georgia Tech carries a special place in both of our hearts. Most importantly, getting to experience graduation from the Institute was so heartwarming for our family!

Do you have any advice for Modern Languages students at Georgia Tech?

My advice for Modern Languages students at Georgia Tech is to never lose sight of how far language and culture can take you as a global citizen. My Spanish skills have taken me all over the world, professionally, from Spain to the Dominican Republic!

When you're not working, what do you like to do?

When I’m not working, I like to spend time with family and friends, learn languages (thanks Duolingo!), and watch international documentary and TV series.

If you weren't doing this, what would you be doing?

If I weren’t doing this, I would be a Foreign Service Officer for the U.S. State Department — it would be a great opportunity to travel the world while utilizing my language and intercultural competency skills to make an impact!

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