I graduated from the University of Seville in Languages, English and Spanish. Then, after having worked as a language teacher in Spain and abroad, I went back for a Master degree in Spanish Language Philology. I also started my Doctorate degree in Hispanic Studies and Literature. In 1997, with a year into my doctorate studies, I was offered a full scholarship to come to Rice University for another Master degree; I decided to accept the offer so that I may experience life in the United States.

In my over 20 years of teaching experience, I have taught Spanish and English as a Foreign Language at various Elementary and Middle schools in Spain and here in Houston. I have also taught Spanish privately to groups and individuals.

In 2006, I came back to Rice. This year has brought me a lot of satisfaction by fully contacting my students, and getting new experiences with the last resources of technology to facilitate the students’ language learning. I have been teaching Spanish 102, 201 and 202. In addition, I have also taught Spanish to the staff and fellows of the Baker Institute.

Since I like getting to know my students in and out of class, I have gotten involved in volunteering at students’ events. In January 2007, two of my students introduced me into the one of the projects with Engineers Without Borders (EWB), the chapter at Rice. This project was based on a community in Nicaragua. I contributed with translations of some documents, some time for conversation in target language, and eventually, I joined the group of students to travel to Nicaragua in May. The experience there was amazing for everyone involved in the project. I highly recommend such an experience abroad for any college student.
In March 2007, I had the honor to become a Faculty Associate of Wiess College. There, I created a Spanish Table that meets every Wednesday at lunch for all Rice students interested in practicing their Spanish regardless of their knowledge.

In April 2007, one of my students introduced me to the “Pair Project”, a group of Rice students volunteering to help teaching English to young refugees recently arrived in Houston on Saturdays, at Rayzor Hall. My husband and I have joined them in helping small groups of children to acquire English.

To conclude my brief personal narrative, I will highlight some of my personal aspects: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, painting, going to international films and theatre plays, visiting museums and traveling. And not to shock you, I practiced spelunking for over 17 years.