These are facts you might be aware of, but did you know he has a love for foreign languages and cultures? Jeff has studied two foreign languages and is onto learning his third language.

Jeff earned dual degrees in History and Classical Cultures from Ball State University. It was there where he learned Latin and German – Latin for his focus on Ancient Rome and German for his own heritage. “I’ve always had a fascination with languages,” said Jeff.

Fast forward to 2015 when Jeff participated in the Purdue University International Program in China for pre-arrival preparation of students. “I was really nervous before my visit because my only experience learning about China was through books and the news,” which as a result, Jeff said, “Don’t believe what you see on the news. They can paint a bad picture. I felt very safe and welcomed to be there.” To prepare for the journey, Purdue staff was given an introduction to China’s language and culture. Naturally, his introduction to the Chinese language – and learning only the pleasantries – was just not enough.

Jeff quickly explained the details about a specific circumstance that truly changed it all. “I remember a particular Chinese student who came into my office and didn’t speak any English – at all,” said Jeff. He quickly activated a plan to converse using Google Translation from his computer and the student’s mobile phone. “It wasn’t perfect but I got the idea of what he was trying to say and how I could help,” said Jeff.

Since then, he has registered to take Chinese at Purdue and hopes to continue through next year before he returns to China for a vacation. When asked what has been the hardest thing about learning Chinese, Jeff responded, “definitely the tone. If you get the tone wrong, it changes the meaning and you could quite possibly being telling someone off.” However, he stated the most fun part of learning the language is the characters. “When students see my practice handwriting of the characters, their typical response is, “that’s cute.” Jeff’s technical printing isn’t as beautifully illustrated as their painted characters they are accustomed to. But, it serves as a conversation piece with his students.

As students enter his office, they are welcomed with a display of Chinese adornments from his trip and gifts from students who have come to know of his inquisitive mind for their language and culture. “I have a set of flash cards that I keep at my desk. When Chinese students notice, they engage in conversations with me about why I am learning their language, which expands on the nature of the advising session into a more welcoming, personal connection,” said Jeff. No doubt, this first impression makes a huge difference for our international students.

Jeff also is a volunteer for the International Friendship Program and encourages everyone to try it once. This is his third semester teaming up with international students to treat them to their first American meal, introduce them to outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing, and more social engagement like movies and Chinese New Year’s parties.