Buena Vista Part 3

On Thursday evening, I took my first weeknight trip to the Buena Vista Labor Camps for the Adult ESL Classes. My Spanish is not what it used to be, so I was definitely nervous about it. Thankfully, the high school kids were waiting for us when we arrived, and I learned they would be helping the Beg. level students with their tutoring, while I would assist the organizer with a more advanced student. The student I worked with was completing her GED, and brought her book with her...the only downside was that it was in Spanish! My partner and I had both learned biology in English, and we realized teaching her how blood circulates through the heart was going to be a challenge.

I began to circulate through the groups and saw how the tutoring sessions functioned. The high school kids made an effort to help the women of the ESL classes, and they planned their own mini-curriculum for the night. We went around the room and introduced ourselves and our favorite colors, as an ice breaker. I realized I was the only non-native Spanish speaker in the room, and I felt that made the students nervous or maybe even intimidated. Some of the ladies refused to speak in English and glanced at me and the other tutors when it was their turn.

To be honest, I felt a bit like I was intruding at the beginning of the session, but towards the end, I felt at home. My tutee began to show me pictures of her sons as we made her answer everyday questions like "Where is the closest gas station?" or "How much is the ____?" and even had fun when we exchanged tongue twisters in English and Spanish.

On this trip, I was able to recognize the culture barrier clearly--because when it comes to adults, who are already raised and pass on their own ethnicity and cultural lifestyles, it is more challenging to interact with an individual who shares none of your life experiences or background. However, I'm glad I made the effort to come Thursday night, and I hope I'll be able to return again.