Born in Nueva Rosita, Coahuila, Mexico, Martha immigrated with her family to the United States when she was three years old. Fluent in Spanish and English, her involvements at Northwestern reflect her passion for both people and languages. She’s been a tutor, teacher’s assistant, campus admissions ambassador and residence life cottage manager. Martha is also active in Spanish Chapel, a monthly worship service where participants sing, pray and worship in Spanish. As a Spanish major with endorsements in K-6, 7-12 and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language), Martha looks forward to sharing her love for the Spanish language with students in her own classroom.

Speaking their language
“I think it is very important for children to learn another language because being bilingual will be helpful in the future. Kindergarten age is great for beginning a new language because children acquire language much faster than adults. I began speaking Spanish when I was 10 months old. When we moved to the United States and I began learning English in school, I picked it up quickly and have been speaking both languages fluently since then. If my parents hadn’t told me how I became bilingual, I’d have believed I was born speaking two languages because I am so comfortable with both.”

World-class education
“My passion for people and languages led me to consider endorsements to teach in addition to my Spanish major. Northwestern’s education program is the perfect fit for me. My professors don’t just ‘teach out of the book’, but try to give their students real classroom experiences. I have enjoyed opportunities to observe, tutor and even teach a lesson in an actual classroom. All of my education professors work hard to help me achieve my goal of becoming a good teacher.”

Right at home
“There are so many things that attracted me to Northwestern: the close community, encouragement to grow spiritually, and the helpful attitude I saw in the faculty and staff. When I first set foot on campus, I immediately noticed the atmosphere, felt at home and knew this place was right for me. It was God who put all things in place, and because of him, I’m here!”