September 2021 | Julie Romberg

Having started her studies  at Tierra a little over two years ago in a Beginner 2 course, Julie has demonstrated impressive dedication, going to great lengths to develop her skills and achieving a higher intermediate level. A lover of language and travel with an authentic desire to engage with the Spanish-speaking community, she’s involved in her local community and taken study abroad immersion trips to Mexico and Guatemala. The real inspiration she provides is in her lack of fear in approaching learning Spanish; there is no challenge, whether understanding the complexity of nuanced grammar structures or navigating the technical aspects of online courses, that can deter her. Always expressing kindness and warmth to her classmates, Julie embodies the community-minded spirit we aim to cultivate at Tierra and we are honored to count her among our student community.

Name: Julie Romberg
Occupation: Retired primary teacher of 25 years including 2 1/2 years teaching in the US Peace Corps
Time Studying at Tierra: Since Spring 2019

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"I go to St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church where there is a service in Spanish every Sunday morning. I am involved in a group there that provides assistance to Immigrant families and several members speak Spanish which inspired me to return to my long-ago high school favorite subject! Also I lived in France and learning French with my children convinced me of the importance of learning another language to really know another culture".

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

"My favorite part of the experience of studying Spanish here has been meeting great people and enjoying learning Spanish together. Socializing was a bit easier before online classes, I look forward to one day returning to in-person classes but appreciate how well Tierra has helped us adapt to distance learning! And most of all, I have appreciated Norberto’s fine teaching in helping me move along from Beginner 2 to my current Intermediate 4 class".

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

"I have had two wonderful travel/study experiences during my years at Tierra, first to a two week program in Cuernavaca, Mexico and the other to a program in Antigua, Guatemala. Both times I was able to put to use what I had learned at Tierra and feel very comfortable with my level of Spanish".
 

¡Felicidades Julie!