October 2011 - Connie Whelan

Connie possesses a unique thirst for learning, a quality reflected in her fascinating life path as well as in her dedication to mastering the Spanish language. Trained as a classical musician, she played the viola with the Oregon Symphony for over 25 years before deciding to dedicate her time to her new-found passion for underwater photography. An avid world-traveler, her adventurous spirit, natural curiosity, and openness to challenges abound in her approach to learning Spanish. Whether supporting our holiday celebrations at Tierra or using her Spanish in the Yucatan peninsula, Connie places authentic communication and community-building at the center of all her pursuits.

Name: Connie Whelan
Ocuppation: I am now retired from the Oregon Symphony but have a small underwater photography business
Time studying at Tierra: 1 year and a half

1) Why are you studying Spanish?
"I have traveled in Mexico for many years. Recently I've been spending several weeks in the Yucatan Peninsula every winter. Last year I was there for 8 weeks, 3 of which were spent in an immersion Spanish course in Merida. I was able to communicate with a divemaster completely in Spanish in order to scuba dive in the cenotes. Also I was able to work on one of my cenote images in Photoshop with a photo technician who spoke no English."

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?
"I love the small classes at Tierra. I also like the camaraderie among the students and between the teachers and students."

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?
"As mentioned above, I have used the Spanish I have learned at Tierra when traveling in Mexico. Three months ago I employed workers from VOZ to help me move dirt from the street to my new garden, and just yesterday I spoke Spanish with a worker in my neighborhood."

Congratulations Connie!!