February 2014 - Althea Sails

A diligent student equipped with an ever-growing stack of color-coded flashcards, Althea demonstrates the will and perseverance it takes to acquire second-language skills as an adult. Driven in her quest to learn Spanish by her desire to communicate with Spanish-speaking patients at the clinic she manages, her cheery dedication and meticulous study habits have set her on the path to success. Having started in a Beginner 1 course at Tierra, she’s impressively advanced through the Beginner and lower Intermediate levels and has taken advantage of our Student Support Session and Conversation Nights to get extra practice. Gracious and kind, Althea’s presence makes the classroom a more welcoming and friendly place as she and her classmates support one another in their learning processes.
 

Name:  Althea Sails
Occupation:  Clinic Manager
Time Studying at Tierra: 1 year and a half

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"I am studying Spanish because it has been a life goal to speak a second language for personal growth. I recently returned to pursuing the Spanish language after a 10 year break because I accepted a position working with a large community of native Spanish speakers. I continue to study Spanish because I love the language, and I look forward to being able to effectively communicate with customers, co-workers, other students, friends and family in a meaningful way."

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

"My favorite experience at the Tierra Center is having the flexibility to learn at my own pace, and to have access to supplemental resources such as one on one lessons and the student support session as needed. I have enjoyed meeting new people, and also attending the various cultural activities throughout the year to expand my knowledge of Hispanic celebrations."

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

"I have not been able to fully use the Spanish language as I have hoped because I struggle with my confidence level, but it has been fun to practice with other students  and co-workers to learn new Spanish phrases.  I have been told by many native speakers that making the effort to speak Spanish goes a long way toward building relationships in any setting, and therefore my confidence continues to grow every time I have the opportunity to use my new Spanish skills at work or in other areas of my life."

¡Felicidades Althea!