A passion for language
For Samantha Hiner, Spanish isn’t simply a subject to be studied in a classroom – it’s a living, breathing part of her daily existence.
What started out as a favor to her mother – who suggested that she take a Spanish class in high school – grew into a burning passion. By the time Samantha arrived at Berry, she had decided to pursue the language as a major.
Samantha immersed herself in the language, first through study abroad – where she first experienced thinking, as well as speaking in Spanish – and later as the student director of Berry’s English as a Second Language (ESL) program helping to coordinate English language education for Hispanic adults in the local community.
"Serving as the student director for the ESL classes has been a tremendous experience," she stated.
Samantha’s skills and accomplishments were honored in 2010 with a prestigious Fulbright teaching fellowship to continue her personal and professional development in Spain.
Prepared by Megan Gilker (09C) as a student public relations and marketing assistant
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