language-learning

Language learning has been my longest-running special interest by far. When I was young, my dad taught me the basics of Spanish and our native language, Karuk (Araráhih). Since then, I’ve loved the feeling of carrying multiple vocabularies in my head. I stuck to Spanish, lost most of the Karuk, but have been working as of late to bring it back. Other languages I have experience with are Mandarin, Galician, and American Sign Language.

Over the years, I’ve experienced both sides of language learning and teaching, in formal and informal settings, with groups big and small. That has given me a deep sense of what different approaches can offer. Now as a facilitator, I do my best to create a space that feels safe, welcoming, and accessible, where people of all levels can lean into the trying, the failing, and the learning that comes from both. For me, that’s always been the most meaningful—and most efficient—way to improve any skill.

If you are interested in learning or practicing your Spanish, drop in whenever you’d like! Email me with any questions or concerns you might have at alisha@neighborhoodhousemadison.org

current projects: