Bilingual

In the later part of my undergrad years, I took part of an exchange program at McGill University in Montreal. That was the first time I had to do schoolwork in a language different than Spanish. Later, while working in my undergraduate thesis, all the literature I was exposed to was in English. Since then, I can say I have handled myself comfortably in both Spanish and English for technical content.

During my graduate student days I did a couple of small translation jobs for the Stardate magazine, which at the time had a Spanish version that is no longer available. Of course I translate content all the time, but not in any official capacity. I have also worked with colleagues and students that are Spanish speakers, so I do use technical jargon in verbal communication as well. Of course, I have given multiple professional talks in Spanish as well, although the vast majority of my presentations are in English.

I recently gave a talk to a German fourth grade classroom. I was nervous because my German is limited, but the kids were wonderfully curious and patient. One was an Italian immigrant and asked if she could as questions in Italian. Shockingly, it all worked great and I was answering questions for well over an hour. I had to leave because the school day was over.

I have been asked to write popular level texts for a variety of publications both in English (page 11) and Spanish.