TOWAMENCIN- Bridget Gallagher’s introduction to world language began in a Pennbrook Middle School German classroom. Her love for German culture only flourished from there, staying with her throughout sophomore and junior year. Gallagher now intends to apply her talent and passion for world language beyond high school, a path that may lead to many opportunities.

Gallagher’s knowledge of German culture has thrived through her participation in North Penn’s German Club. She is the President of German Club and served as the Vice President last year. Gallagher is also the historian of the International Friendship Club, where she organizes activities that present different world cultures.

“I didn’t apply [for the exchange program] because my mom and dad would miss me too much, so I decided to make the most of being involved in the school. I like to think of myself as a representative for the kids who didn’t get to go abroad to show that you can still be on top of all your clubs,” explained Gallagher.

Although Gallagher did not spend her junior year as an exchange student in Germany, she was able to spend two weeks in Germany the summer before her junior year through a program North Penn High School offers.

“The relationships that I built with the Germans that I stayed with was something that I wanted to keep in my life forever, so I thought ‘oh this is so cool that I can have a relationship with somebody, but speak a different language’ and I wanted to keep that going,” remarked Gallagher regarding what mainly influenced her love for German culture.

The program allowed Gallagher to authentically surround herself in the German experience, further influencing her decision to expand her knowledge of international languages.

“I stayed with two girls and their families two different times [during the trip] and both of of their parents didn’t speak any English, so I had to step it up and speak more German. [In America], you have so many people who dabble in the language, but can’t speak it, so they won’t fix your [language skills], and you also don’t feel compelled to speak [German],” said Gallagher.

Gallagher is also enrolled in a Spanish class at the high school. Knowing multiple languages is important to Gallagher and her future career path in college.

“Ideally, I want to go to college for international relations and foreign language communications. With that, I could do marketing or humanity work because I love to help people all around the world, but I also just love talking to people. North Penn has definitely helped me learn how to reach out to people,” said Gallagher.

Music is also a hobby that Gallagher balances alongside world languages. She can play guitar, piano, ukulele, and enjoys singing. Gallagher was also involved in North Penn’s spring theater productions in 2016 and 2017.

“I like to describe myself as a campfire guitarist. I can play around the campfire and sing a tune, but I am not anything wild,” laughed Gallagher.

Gallagher has much to anticipate as her senior year of high school progresses. Whether it be through her involvement in clubs or for her outgoing personality, Gallagher hopes that her mark on North Penn will be remembered

“I want to be remembered for putting in a lot of work, but also just for being funny and loud. People knowing I was here will make such an impact on me.”