April 2026 - Emmett Herrle

Since starting in a Beginner 1 course over a year ago, Emmett has been extremely dedicated to his Spanish studies. A registered nurse who works down the street from Tierra at Providence Portland hospital, he comes to Spanish class after working a 12-hour shift, yet he eagerly participates and rarely misses a class. He has multiple motivations for learning Spanish, including his love of travel, dream to be bilingual, and desire to communicate with his Spanish-speaking patients. With a dry sense of humor and natural empathy, he is a kind and supportive classmate who clearly enjoys the camaraderie built in group classes. We are honored to count Emmett among our amazing student community at Tierra and look forward to continuing to see his skills blossom as he advances on in his learning journey.

Name: Emmett Herrle
Occupation: Registered Nurse at Portland Providence Medical Center
Time Studying at Tierra: Just over 1 year

1) Why are you studying Spanish?

"I am studying Spanish because I've always wanted to learn another language and one day in the fall season of 2024 I realized it’s not too late to start. I love to travel and immerse myself into cultures, food and tradition so learning Spanish will help me get closer to those interests. And I would also like to connect more with my Spanish speaking patients".

2) What is your favorite part about your experience here at Tierra?

"I love the culture that Tierra has cultivated and the community that it creates through learning and inclusivity. Learning anything new comes with excitement and uncomfortableness, and Tierra does a great job of balancing it out with flexibility for adults with a busy life. It has
also been such a delight to meet new people in an environment where the instructors make you feel welcome and ready to learn".

3) Can you tell us of a time you have been able to use what you have learned studying here?

"I have been able to use it at work! Just the attempt at trying to speak someone's native language makes a noticeable difference in building rapport and making them feel comfortable, and I look forward to the day when I can hold a more complex conversation with confidence".

¡Felicidades Emmett!