November 2014 - Rayner Ward

Rayner is a unique, you might even say unforgettable, student  whose humor and spontaneity bring an element of surprise to the Spanish classroom. After a long career of many careers including English professor, carpenter, and owner of a remodeling company, Rayner retired in 2007 to dedicate himself to his writing. He’s since self-published two novels and reports that his Spanish studies helped tremendously in the writing and editing process, particularly as he summoned his memories of Mexico and peppered the scenes set there with Spanish phrases and slang. Fascinated by language in all of its literary and vernacular manifestations, Rayner pushes the limits of his Spanish abilities, always seeking to express his thoughts on complex topics in an idiomatic fashion. We wish Rayner the best in his endeavors and are glad for his spirited participation in our community at Tierra!

Name:  Rayner Ward
Occupation:  Writer
Time studying at Tierra:  Since Spring 2013

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"Initially a couple of years ago I planned to go to the World Subud Congress (an international spiritual movement) in Puebla Mexico this last August, which I did.  In the meantime, before the congress I wanted to spiff up my Spanish acuity so I started taking a class each semester at Tierra.  I quite enjoyed speaking Spanish in Puebla, especially with the lovely people with whom I stayed. Also, I like to read books in Spanish (though it can take me forever), the likes of Las Fantasticas and El Lord de la Droga, as well as graphic novels such as The Walking Dead."

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?    

"Of course I would put in first place the quality of the knowledge that Tierra imports, but parallel to that and at the same level, would be the people - the staff as well as the students."

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?

"I like to practice by reading and listening to the radio in Spanish. I particularly enjoyed conversing with Spanish speakers in Mexico last summer."

¡Felicidades Rayner!