My name is Michelle Risse. I graduated from UAF with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology in the spring of 2011 with two minors, one in Music and one in French. I have lived in Fairbanks my whole life with the exception of one year where I fulfilled my dream of living in New York City. Before leaving for the Big Apple I directed and choreographed “How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying” for a local Fairbanks Light Opera Theatre production. When in New York City, I was confined to the seedy area of West Harlem, but while living there I was able to see some terrific Broadway shows and learn a lot about urban life. After one year I came back to Fairbanks in pursuit of a real job, realistic rent, and a place where I could earn a comfortable income as well as retirement and medical benefits.
Just this past summer I studied in Grenoble, France at the Université Stendale as part of an intensive French study program. I had so much fun, spent way too much money, and survived!
Currently I am in pursuit of my Secondary Education Masters Degree focusing on the areas of French and English. I am on the two year path and am currently enrolled in a variety of classes that will go towards my goal and also am in the process of studying for my French praxis and OPI exams and at this time am striving to make my house a complete French immersion. 