TEC Student of the Month Award

With joyful determination, Mary Ellen has transformed herself into a Spanish speaker in just under two years! Having started out in our Beginner 1 course, her incredible drive has fueled her swift progress which is an inspiration to classmates and instructors alike. Her passion for learning is contagious, as is her kindness, generosity, and infinite patience, attributes which help to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere in any class she joins. Since beginning her studies, she’s had the opportunity to travel to Spain and Mexico and to volunteer in Nicaragua, milking her experiences abroad to the fullest in her pursuit of authentic connection and deep cultural understanding. We are grateful for Mary Ellen’s continued dedication to her Spanish learning journey and look forward to continuing to watch her achieve her lofty goals.

Bright-eyed and filled with enthusiasm, Bethany approaches learning the Spanish language with focus and delight. Having started out at Tierra in Beginner 1, she’s shown incredible dedication to pursuing her fluency goals. Inquisitive and thorough, Bethany always ensures she understands the material being taught and asks opportune questions which help the whole class digest the concepts studied.  In her work at a school for deaf children, she’s taken advantage of her new language skills to engage and get to know Spanish-speaking parents. Making swift progress, she demonstrates that having a great attitude and serious motivation are the true keys to success! We wish Bethany, as well as all local educators and youth, a very Happy Summer Break! Click here for a profile on this exemplary student.

With a serious work ethic, generous heart, and playful sense of humor, Deb has made a big impression on Tierra instructors and on her classmates. She’s built her Spanish skills from square one with exceptional dedication, coupling her excellent attendance in class with several hours of weekly study at home. Kind and supportive, Deb seems to relish the community-building aspect of group classes and contributes to creating a safe place for learning and speaking imperfectly. She cheerfully takes advantage of every opportunity to practice, of late chatting up her co-workers at the produce market she manages and excitedly planning her upcoming trip to Costa Rica. We’re inspired by the way Deb makes everyone around her feel special and works hard to achieve her goals - we wish her happy travels! Click here for a profile on this explemplary student.