May 2013 - Mike & Bonnie Vawter

Since deciding to study Spanish together, this married couple has become a mainstay in their Spanish classes at Tierra. Committed students who clearly enjoy learning, Mike and Bonnie add creativity, intelligence, and good-natured fun to the classroom dynamic. With travel plans in the making, they are motivated to develop their language skills in part by the desire to explore new places and be able to interact on a deep level with the people they encounter. Diligent and thorough, Mike and Bonnie are truly laudable students whose genuine interest and dedication have led them to make great progress in their time at Tierra.

Names: Mike & Bonnie Vawter
Occupation: Mike: retired cardiologist; Bonnie: former teacher, homemaker
Time Studying at Tierra: about 1 year

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

Mike: "It’s something I’ve always wanted to do but have never had the time to pursue. Since I retired in 2011, I finally have the opportunity to dedicate time to learning Spanish."

Bonnie: "I spent time living and studying in Mexico City in my youth and it was a wonderful experience. I’ve been wanting to regain the Spanish skills I once had, and we also are both looking forward to the possibility of traveling in Mexico in the future. We’ve gotten in touch with the family I lived with so many years ago and I’d love to be able to see them again."

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

Mike: "We’ve been very impressed with the excellent quality of teaching."

Bonnie: "And we especially enjoy interacting with all of the other friendly students who’ve been in our classes."

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

Mike: "We like to practice speaking Spanish to each other at home and listen to it when we can. I enjoy trying to understand Spanish-language television."

Bonnie: "We attempt to converse with Spanish speaking friends and are eager to take advantage of more opportunities to learn and practice."

¡Felicidades Mike & Bonnie!