Esther Sanchez

Spanish Teacher

Teaching, M.A. '19

Both the Spanish and the education programs at Biola helped prepare me for my career by providing a firm foundation in my faith and in the Spanish language. The Spanish program helped me gain a deeper understanding of the Spanish language which has now provided me with an opportunity to help my students gain an appreciation for Spanish and the cultures as well.

How did your program at Biola prepare you for your career?
Both the Spanish and the education programs at Biola helped prepare me for my career by providing a firm foundation in my faith and in the Spanish language. The Spanish program helped me gain a deeper understanding of the Spanish language which has now provided me with an opportunity to help my students gain an appreciation for Spanish and the cultures as well. I loved studying Spanish and while learning about my own culture from a Christian perspective.

What did you appreciate most about your time at Biola?
I appreciated the intimate community. Since the Spanish department at Biola was a growing department, the ratio of students to teachers was ideal. All of my former Spanish professors were extremely dedicated to their students and calling. Each professor became a mentor to me throughout my time at Biola. The professors not only cared for me as a student, but helped prepare and provide me the opportunities that led me to the teaching position I have today. The students in the department were not just classmates, but friends that keep in touch with today.

How did Biola equip you to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ?
Biola equipped me to be a more faithful follower of Christ by providing me with dedicated professors who were a living examples of what followers of Christ should be. The professors at Biola were my role models and they helped me see what a Christian educator should be. They were not only excellent professors in their department but they continually challenged me to see God and His creation within education and the Spanish language. I loved that I was constantly encouraged to not only grow academically, but spiritually as well. Biola helped me see that I had the opportunity to worship God and bring Him glory in another language.

What advice would you give to students considering your degree program?
My advice for those considering their degree program would be to consider the impact they wish to have. The Spanish department will provide endless opportunities in which to serve within the Spanish community.