Lynn Ries

I was born and raised in a small town in Wisconsin, and while I had some early exposure to German, I began studying it in high school, and eventually declared a German major in college at Iowa State.

While at Iowa State, I had my first opportunities to travel to Germany, first on a work exchange with John Deere-Lenz in Mannheim, and then during a full academic year at the Universität Hamburg. Upon returning to the U.S., I got my MA and PhD in German Literature from the University of Oregon.

Like the students I teach, I nurtured a passion for German in an English-speaking environment, and faced the challenges of finding materials and people who would help me grow.

I’ve taught all ages and every level of learner starting as a graduate instructor in Eugene and various adjunct or long-term sub postings around the region, through many years involvement in Saturday Schools, and my current work at PCC. I began working with DSD-level students in the mid-aughts. Some of my favorite things about teaching German are the challenges of moving students to more polished speaking and writing, and the broadening of their horizons.

Outside of school I like to challenge myself in quiet ways like yoga, kayaking, crossword puzzles, volunteering, and travel to new places. I spend time with my family and cat, and look for ways to balance all the things I’m enthusiastic about.