March 2019 - Mary Southwick Aguirre

With a deep desire to understand other cultures, Mary’s natural curiosity has fueled her journey toward fluency in Spanish. A long-time student at Tierra, Mary began her studies back in 2013, seeking to bolster her ability to communicate with her Spanish-speaking patients and their families in her work as an emergency room nurse. She also is motivated to be able to speak with her husband’s family, from Mexico. Since then her skills have flourished and she’s acquired an advanced level, enjoying several cultural immersion courses along the way. A dedicated student and kind classmate, Mary’s thoughtful contributions in class are truly appreciated. It’s been thrilling to witness the progress that Mary has achieved and we look forward to continuing to see her meet and surpass her goals.

Name: Mary Southwick Aguirre
Occupation: Emergency RN
Time studying at Tierra: About 5 years

1) Why are you studying Spanish? 

"I am studying Spanish because I enjoy learning about different cultures through language. I even studied Chinese for 3 years in college but sadly forgot most of it shortly after graduation and ended up with a completely useless mix of Spanish and Chinese in my brain! I've been learning Spanish off and on since elementary school and decided my best chance for becoming fluent in a second language was to focus on my Spanish."

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

"My favorite thing about studying Spanish at Tierra is meeting other students especially those who are learning Spanish to connect with their heritage and communicate with family."

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

"I use my Spanish frequently at work and at home with my husband's family. Currently we are hosting a very sweet 18 year old cousin of his from Mexico who is studying English as a second language at PCC."

¡Felicidades Mary!