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Exploring the World Through Language and Story: Lizzy Hahn

The College of Liberal Arts is proud to recognize Lizzy Hahn as the 2024–2025 Outstanding Student in the Department of Global Languages and Literatures. A senior pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in science and environmental journalism with minors in German and art, Lizzy’s UAF journey is marked by curiosity, compassion, and a deep sense of place.

Originally from Nome, �ֻ�ֱ��, Lizzy has always felt at home in the intersection of language, science, and storytelling. But like many students, her confidence in her academic path didn’t happen overnight. “The turning point for me was this year, in a science writing course with Professor Lynne Snifka,” Lizzy said. “I always knew I wanted to be some kind of science communicator, but this class really solidified that. We got to choose the research we wanted to write about—topics we were excited to share with the world. It made me feel like I had found my place.”

Just as her journalism courses helped her hone her voice, her love for language grew even stronger in UAF’s German program. “I’ve spoken German my whole life,” Lizzy said. “But these last two semesters with Helga Wagenleiter have made me fall in love with it all over again. Sitting down with her each week, learning more, going deeper—it’s been such a meaningful experience.”

For Lizzy, language isn’t just about words—it’s about connection. That’s what makes the UAF community so important to her. “UAF is this vibrant, close-knit place,” she said. “You walk around campus and you always run into people you know—friends from class, people from clubs, faculty who really care. Even though I’m far from Nome, this place has become a second home.”

That sense of support has helped Lizzy navigate the ups and downs of college life. “When things got tough—whether it was an upcoming test or a hard assignment—I leaned on my people,” she said. “My friends at UAF are incredible. We support each other through everything. And my parents have always been there, helping me talk things through. They remind me that sometimes, you just have to push through and get the assignment done. And once you do, you realize it’s going to be okay.”

Beyond the classroom, Lizzy has found strength and joy in UAF’s unique setting. An outdoor enthusiast, she encourages others to embrace the natural beauty around campus—especially during �ֻ�ֱ��’s long, dark winters. “Get out there,” she said. “Go skate skiing, go to the ice wall, try downhill skiing, go ice skating under the lights. There are so many amazing opportunities at UAF. Even in the darkest months, you can find joy—especially when you’re out with friends.”

When asked what advice she’d share with future students, Lizzy’s response is both practical and heartfelt: “Just talk to people. Some of the best friends I have, I met on the first day of class my freshman year. UAF has so many incredible people and experiences. Say yes to things. Be open. And don’t be afraid to find joy in unexpected places.”

As she prepares to graduate, Lizzy leaves behind a legacy of interdisciplinary learning, cultural connection, and community building. Whether she’s writing about Arctic science, exploring visual storytelling through art, or deepening her fluency in German, one thing is clear: Lizzy Hahn is charting a path that bridges disciplines and builds understanding—and doing it with heart.