Meet the Student: Cusco Spanish School

Meet Craig T.Z., a student at AmeriSpan's Cusco Spanish School (Budget Friendly)

What is your background?
Ethnicity: American
Age: 21
Education: International School Bangkok, Thailand (2001-2008)
Binghamton University, New York (2008- )
Current Address: Wakefield, Rhode Island, USA  
Civil Status: Single

Do you travel abroad often?
Yes, I used to travel abroad once or twice a month before I enrolled at University. Now I travel two to three times a year, primarily for vacation.

Have you studied abroad?
I attended the International School of Bangkok in Thailand for 7 years.

Which languages do you speak or have studied?
I speak English, and have studied Thai and Spanish in school.

Why did you choose an AmeriSpan program?
I was introduced to the study abroad program through my travels abroad, meeting people and visiting schools. I joined the program because after growing up overseas, I wanted to continue my studies in a foreign environment.  

When did you start your program?
I began my program February 28^th, 2011. In The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

What does your program consist of?
In the program, my work is volunteering as a teacher and teachers assistant in local schools in the host country, as well as a Spanish language student.

What do you enjoy the most about your program?
The part of my work I enjoy most is connecting with the children in the schools. Its cliché to say it is rewarding, but there is no better way to explain it. The enjoyment comes from the challenge of understanding each student's abilities and how best to leverage them. No matter the country, city, or social status of the school I am volunteering in, children are all the same and their energy is always positive.

Has a person, group of people or organization instrumental in your study abroad goals?
There have been many people that have been instrumental to my success, as well as organizations. Namely the camp I work in each summer. Spending all day and night with youths allowed me the opportunity to not only be a teacher, instructor and counselor but also a role model and companion. I have also had ample support from friends and family, they have made me the person I am today. And finally, there are always the people and places that I travel to that provide new insights and ideas that I am able to transfer to my work.      

Tell us one of the biggest challenges you've encountered studying abroad.
My biggest challenge is knowing where to begin. With students there is always a range of attitudes and aptitudes. It is necessary to cater to everyone’s own learning style so they all receive an equal understanding of the material.

Tell us one of the mistakes you've made studying abroad.
My biggest mistake when volunteering is forgetting to take it slow and keep the material and pace consistent.

How did you find out about AmeriSpan?
I discovered AmeriSpan through my Spanish school in Cusco, Peru.

Can you tell us about your school’s philosophy, specialty and/or why you think it is special?
My school's specialty is teaching interested students the Spanish language and providing enthusiastic individuals with volunteer opportunities.  

Learn more about AmeriSpan's Budget-Friendly Cusco Spanish school