Discussing why you (yes, YOU) should come to Spanish tutoring with Bruce!

Today we’re interviewing Bruce, our drop-in Spanish tutor! We chatted about what first motivated him to learn Spanish, and the amazing power of language tutoring at Reed!

Leilani: Hi Bruce! First, could you tell me a little bit about yourself, and for how long you’ve been speaking Spanish?

Bruce: My name is Bruce, and I’m from the Portland area. I started speaking Spanish, or at least taking classes, in seventh grade. And then I did it for five years. I did the IB [International Baccalaureate] program, so I did IB Spanish in my junior year. In my senior year, I wasn’t able to take Spanish because I had already taken the highest level my school offered. So I started again last year in college. I started at the intermediate level, and now I’m taking 321 [Theory and Practice of Hispanic Literature].

L: What initially motivated you to start learning Spanish?

B: I don’t come from a family that speaks Spanish at all, but it was the only language that was offered at my middle school. My brother was also a couple of years older than me, and he was starting to learn, as well. It was more so that I wanted to learn another language. Now, I’m glad I chose Spanish because it aligns with a lot of what I’m interested in. I’ve been really interested in Latin American politics, art, and history. When I first started to learn, I didn’t have that reasoning. But now I’m really glad I chose to study Spanish.

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WORKSHOP: ARROZ CON LECHE

Spanish language scholars Andreu and Angeles are hosting a workshop to teach you how to make arroz con leche (popular in both Spain and Argentina) on Saturday 4 October at 5:00pm in the Spanish House.

GHOST STORY TELLING AND CRAFT NIGHT AT THE LANGUAGE LAB

Come tell and listen to spooky stories from around the world at the Language Lab on October 9th at 6pm!

As the weather gets colder and the workload gets heavier, the Language Lab is here to remind you to have a bit of fun! Everyone is welcome to this evening of exchanging spooky cultural folklore, puppet-making, and free snacks and drinks. Be there or else…

Getting excited for study abroad with Vincent!

Today we’re chatting with Vincent, our French tutor, as well as the HA for French House II (Farm House). We talked about French programming at Reed and how Vincent is preparing for his semester abroad in Paris this spring!

Leilani: First, could you tell me about your background and how long you’ve been speaking French?

Vincent: Yeah! I first started taking French classes in high school, and then I placed into second-year level French when I came to Reed. I lived in the French House last year, and I’m living in Farm House this year. So those are the French experiences I’ve had here.

L: What has your experience been like as a French tutor?

V: It’s been pretty interesting to get a sense of how other people learn a language in ways that are different from what I’m more used to. And I think that’s a way of helping me to understand the language better and get more practice with it by working with other people.

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Tutor interviews: Sara Tapalova (Russian)

D: Hi Sara! Please introduce yourself to those who don’t know you.

S: My name is Sara and I’m a junior physics major. I’m a native Russian speaker, which is the main reason why I ended up as a Russian tutor. I was born and raised in Central Asia, so I was brought up in a very bilingual environment – I’ve been speaking Russian and Kazakh since I was a little baby, and if you asked me to choose a “first language” I wouldn’t be able to tell you… I started learning English when I was 6, so I know how to empathise with language-learners. If you feel nervous or embarrassed about mistakes, don’t be! I’ve been there too and I know how hard it is.

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!

Banner of Latin American flags and flowers, text reading "Hispanic Heritage Month"

Hispanic Heritage Month starts today, September 15! Learning a language is more than memorizing grammar and vocabulary—it’s about connecting with people and cultures from around the world. Hispanic Heritage Month occurs every year from September 15 to October 15, in commemoration of the many independence days and national celebrations across Latin America. Whether it’s meeting new friends at Spanish House’s weekly events, celebrating with Latinx Student Union, or engaging with the Hispanic community in Portland, here are some ways to celebrate Hispanic culture all month long!

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LANGUAGE LAB AT REED RESOURCE EXPO

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 11:30-1:30, QUAD (KAUL IN CASE OF RAIN)

You heard right. Get excited: the Language Labbies shall be attending the ball (Reed Student Resource Expo)! Ourselves and (of course) Pulpi the octopus will be tabling at the expo to show you all — student, staff, and faculty — the wonders of our humble oasis in the basement of the library.

If our mere presence is not enough to summon you, we offer you the chance to voice your opinion and maybe win a prize in our recommendation raffle! Also, the event is great way to learn more about the resources available to students in general, and free food will be provided.