International & Area Studies

International & Area Studies DSA André Fouque

André Fouque

(he/him)

k20af01@kzoo.edu
Hometown: Dexter, MI
Hometown: Boulder, CO
Majors: International & Area Studies, French, and Political Science
Study Abroad: Strasbourg, France
Best Adjective to Describe You: Passionate


In 20 words or less, what is the best thing about being part of this department?
The curriculum allows me to explore everything that interests me.

What is your biggest piece of advice to first years and sophomores about getting connected to this department?
If you’d like to get connected to the department I encourage you to contact the DSA or head of department. DSA’s (as pertaining to me) can provide you with a rapturous explanation of the department and its advantages beyond K.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned at K?
Nothing replaces hard work and creativity. A student is at K not because of the grades they received in high school but because of the work that was required to obtain those grades. I find it crucial to remember this fact in college and in life. You are not where you are today because of a letter stamped on a piece of paper, but because of the motivation, hard work, and creativity that lies behind that letter.

What has been your favorite class at K?
Constitutional Law. Never has critical thinking and opening one’s mind been so encouraged than in this class. I truly felt that everyone was interested in the subject rather than the grade. Or else, interested in defending a well-founded opinion, as is asked for the final.

How have you taken advantage of the open curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
The open curriculum has allowed me to have three majors. Other than the senior seminar I completed my political science major sophomore year. This allowed me the opportunity to take part in a long-term study abroad for my IAS and French major. An open curriculum has also cemented the idea that it is your interests and curiosities that matter in your education.

What experiential education opportunities have you participated in?
In addition to having three majors, I’m also on the college swim team. Before my junior year I interned at a law firm and during the winter of my junior year, I interned for a district judge in my home state of Colorado. Throughout the summer before my senior year, I am continuing my internship with the judge.

What is your SIP?
My SIP will focus on a jurisprudence called Common-Good Constitutionalism.

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I plan on attending law school after K.

What is a random fun fact about you?
I’m never late.