Video
Description
This is the second of two interviews, one conducted in Spanish and one in English, to use in a Spanish class instructional setting. Susana Cisneros, an alumna and Senior Lecturer of Spanish in the Department of Languages and Culture Studies at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, shares her immigrant experience in the United States and its impact on her life, educational journey, and teaching philosophy. She briefly touches on the political situation in Argentina and her family background. Ms. Cisneros discusses her academic journey, career choice, and how it led to her first visit to the United States as an exchange student. Despite facing language barriers, she pursued her educational goals and overcame challenges related to navigating the US higher education system and securing financial assistance. She also reflects on the difficulties of being a non-traditional student while balancing full-time work and graduate school. She explains how her career path shifted from translation to becoming a Spanish lecturer at the college level. Ms. Cisneros also highlights her college professor experiences, teaching methods, and innovative approaches, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, she shares her experiences as a Latina working at UNC Charlotte and her volunteer work both within the university and in the community. Additionally, she discusses her reasons for choosing Charlotte, provides insights into the city, and reflects on its transformation. Lastly, she offers advice to future UNC Charlotte students and employees.