December 2017 - Marcia Darm

With an enthusiastic and even-keeled attitude, Marcia is tenacious in her study of the Spanish language, never afraid to explore new, complex structures. An avid traveller who has a special love for Africa and has enjoyed trips around the Americas, her desire to understand different cultural realities and have authentic exchanges with locals is one factor that stimulates her dedication to learning Spanish. Naturally vivacious and friendly, she helps build the camaraderie that creates a uniquely welcoming learning environment at Tierra. It’s been wonderful to watch Marcia make significant progress in her time at Tierra so far, and we look forward to continuing to see her sharpen her skills and test them out near and far!

Name: Marcia Darm
Occupation: Physician, Retired OBGYN
Time Studying at Tierra: 3 years off and on depending on travel and life!

1) Why are you studying Spanish? 

"I was a French major in the 1970s and always enjoyed learning languages. I like both the discipline and the beauty of studying and progressing. Being able to understand and speak another language opens up the culture in a new and more intimate way. It connects you to other people with whom you may have differences, but will find great similarities if you can converse with them. Besides it is fun, I enjoy the teachers and my classmates. Also, of course, as we age, they say learning something new is just good for our brains!"

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

"I have greatly enjoyed all of the instructors and the other students I have met at Tierra. I can actually see that at my own pace I am making improvements and really learning Spanish! I also appreciate the terrific friendliness, encouragement, and lack of stress I feel here."

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

"My husband, Bruce and I travel all around the world. In the last couple of years in Chile, Guatemala, Colombia and Mexico I have been able to understand so much more of what I read and hear, and I have been able to have conversations with guides, Uber drivers, and local people I meet. It has been fun and they always seem to appreciate it, although they do need to slow down when they realize that I really am not an expert yet in their language."
 

¡Felicidades Marcia!