January 2014 - Cole Brown

A committed student with a stellar attitude, Cole’s presence charges the classroom with positive vibes. A pastor at a local church, he was inspired to acquire Spanish language skills by the desire to communicate and connect with Spanish-speaking congregants and neighbors. A fan of our twice-weekly intensive courses, he has impressively advanced from the Beginner 3 level to High Intermediate courses in less than one year of classes at Tierra. Cole’s creative approach to learning has manifested itself in countless ways, from instructing his classmates how to decorate calaveras for Día de Muertos (when they were practicing giving commands) to composing and performing a rap about the process of learning Spanish with his teacher and classmates. This New Year we want to express our gratitude to Cole and to all of our students for you are the lifeblood of the school who make Tierra a dynamic and stimulating community!

Name: Cole Brown
Occupation: Pastor
Time Studying at Tierra: Since February 2013

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"I am studying Spanish because I love people. As more and more Spanish-speaking people have moved into my family's neighborhood, school, and church I have been excited to get to know them but frustratingly hindered by the language barrier. Studying Spanish is providing me with the opportunity to build relationships with people and learn from people whom I would otherwise not be able to know."

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

"My favorite part about Tierra is that it is safe. It can be very intimidating for an adult to try to speak a new language -- I know it is for me -- but Tierra provides an encouraging, communal environment that makes the risk far more fun than frightening." 

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

"I was able to use what I've learned this summer in two separate visits to Mexico.  I was surprised that after only a few months at Tierra I was able to understand and communicate everything I needed to while there.  In addition, I take advantage of any opportunity to dialogue with neighbors I was previously unable to communicate with. I also like to throw a phrase or two into my sermons every now and then just to show our Spanish-speaking congregants that I'm trying. Lastly, though I think they might be tired of it, I practice as often as I can on my bilingual friends."

¡Felicidades Cole!