January 2012 - Lindy Delf

Lindy's wholehearted dedication to learning Spanish is evident in her unceasing commitment to classes at Tierra. Her open and friendly presence has helped to create a comfortable and enjoyable dynamic among all those who have been her classmates. She exudes genuine interest in the Spanish language, and in the cultures of those who speak it, and is always willing to ask questions in order to ensure her own understanding. A retired elementary school teacher, Lindy is passionate about education and social justice: she's been putting her Spanish skills to admirable use by tutoring several Spanish-speaking children in Spanish reading and writing skills.
 

Name: Lindy Delf
Occupation: Teacher
Time Studying at Tierra: 1 year and 8 months

1) Why are you studying Spanish?
"Right now I'm still pretty heavily involved in working with struggling
readers and writers and my grandson who just turned five, but someday my
dream is to work in Mexico or Latin America in a school or clinic.
Partly I'd like to be able to pass on the advantages I've had in some
meaningful way but also to live in a culture whose values feel closer to
my own."

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?
"I have loved my time at Tierra for two reasons. First, the teaching (in
my case, Elyse) has been exceptional. I have so appreciated her genuine
interest in our lives and how good she is at leading conversations
deeper and using our questions as one focus for her teaching. Second,
Tierra seems to attract thoughtful and interesting people as students
who are seeking meaningful experiences in their lives and the knowledge
other cultures have to offer."

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?
"This is my third year of studying Spanish and I'm so glad I've stayed
with it. I can read and write a surprising amount now and though
speaking is still such a challenge, I was able to talk with great people
during a recent trip to Oaxaca; my goal for travel."

Congratulations Lindy!!