March 2016 - Daniel Morgan & Jess Youngberg

A couple whose dream of travel has motivated them to expand their Spanish skills, Daniel and Jess’ impressive dedication to their studies at Tierra has merited a double-nomination! Extremely diligent students, they both attend class with extraordinary consistency and make completing all assignments a high priority; they come to their respective classes ready to ask questions and build a solid understanding of the concepts studied.  As they aspire to spend a significant amount of time traveling and perhaps living in Latin America, their genuine interest motivates them to soak in cultural knowledge as they sharpen their language skills. We honor Jess and Daniel’s hard work and look forward to watching them turn their dreams into reality!

Names: Daniel Morgan and Jess Youngberg
Occupations: Daniel - Electrical engineer; Jess - Editor of educational material
Time Studying at Tierra: 18 mo (since Sept 2014)

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"We want to travel and possibly live in Latin America. Also, if Jess returns to teaching, proficiency would be very helpful."

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

"The classes are way more engaging and useful than we recall our high school classes being! The teachers have creative ideas and solid explanations."

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

"Jess: I have started teaching adult English Language Learners. My knowledge of Spanish has given me insight into the pitfalls of my Spanish-speaking students, and I definitely have taken inspiration from my teachers at Tierra.

Daniel: Reading articles about transfer rumors for the Timbers and keeping up with soccer news."

¡Felicidades Daniel and Jess!