February 2012 - Ben Rhiger

Ben is learning Spanish because he loves to learn new things, and it shows. His inquisitive and analytical nature prompts him to actively question new information, looking for patterns in language and seeking to solidify his understanding. An avid explorer of the wilderness, he brings his love of nature to his Spanish studies, sharing and writing about his adventures, and discovering new words to delight classmates with a wonderfully rich vocabulary.  Ben always pushes the limits of his knowledge, using written homework assignments as opportunities for creative self-expression and humor, as well as for deepening language skills. His commitment, curiosity, and spark make learning more fun for everyone.

Name: Ben Rhiger
Occupation: Student
Time Studying at Tierra: 8 months

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"Because hundreds of millions of people speak it and I would like to be
able to talk to them someday! It's the other major language of the
Americas and it only seems fitting that, as an American, I should try to
speak it. Also, you learn a lot about your own tongue when you try to
learn another."

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

"The small class sizes and everybody's excellent sense of humor. Both of
these things create a wonderful environment in which you can speak the
language without fearing the mistakes you will inevitably make."

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

"One of my jobs is selling light bulbs through this website called
Bulbster.com (we specialize in halogens, if anyone is interested...). A
few weeks ago a Spanish-speaking fellow who didn't know much English
stopped by our warehouse to get a replacement lamp for his projector.
With my half-baked Spanish and his patience I was able to find him the
right bulb! Other than that, it sometimes pops up when I'm tutoring ESL
kids in math at Madison High School. "Dos equis mas tres equis igual a
cinco equis..."

Congratulations Ben!!