July 2021 - Vicki Jean Beauchamp

Wholeheartedly dedicated to her Spanish studies, Vicki has made impressive progress in one year of studies at Tierra! It is no surprise that she is a retired librarian, her love of language and learning is palpable. Passionate about travel and having enjoyed trips numerous to Mexico, during this pandemic time of non-travel she continues to immerse herself in cultural learning, whether it’s following Mexican cooking and cultural video channels, watching movies and listening to music in Spanish, or reading articles in Spanish. She delights in applying the knowledge gained in her classes to these authentic materials, a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and creative methods of practice. A kind and empathetic classmate, she is always encouraging of her classmates and contributes to creating an environment of camaraderie. We are honored to count Vicki as part of Tierra community and look forward to continuing to see her spread her wings, practicing her Spanish skills near and far.

Name: Vicki Jean Beauchamp
Occupation: Retired librarian
Time Studying at Tierra: Since June 2020

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"To communicate with others and learn about other places and their cultures. I love learning languages. I love to travel and learn about Latin American culture. Since I prefer to speak at least a little of the local language when I travel, and I love visiting Mexico, this is a no brainer. I'm interested in visiting other Spanish-speaking countries as well. I'm planning to walk the Camino de Santiago next spring so I've been paying attention to how the language differs between Spain and Latin America".

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

"My favorite part is the people. I love my classmates - the majority of my cohort has been together since last October. Patient and inventive instructors from different places and with different styles keep me on my feet. I love the personal attention, emphasis on conversation, comradery and intimacy that comes with small class sizes".

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

"I listen to Spanish-language music and watch Spanish-language videos and movies and it's gratifying to understand more of it. The Spanish accents are a real challenge.
Sometimes, I'll chat in Spanglish with my Guatemalan neighbors. They are very patient with me and we understand each other well.
I look forward to traveling alone because I get so many opportunities to speak a language I'm learning. I know what I'm learning at Tierra will hold me in good stead when I can hit the road again!"

¡Felicidades Vicki!