January 2026 - Astro Nascak

Full of energy and enthusiasm, Astro’s passion for learning Spanish has only grown since starting at the Beginner 2 level in the fall of 2024. Originally motivated to study Spanish by his desire to travel and perhaps live in South America someday, he has discovered that interacting with Spanish speakers in their native language is a powerful way to connect with people and make them feel valued. An animated student who enjoys building friendships with his classmates, Astro contributes to maintaining a positive vibe and a notable sense of camaraderie in his cohort. Someone who dives into Spanish learning by immersing himself in music, Spanish language television, and conversations with strangers, he is a great example of how getting the most practice possible boosts the learning process. We are honored to count Astro among our inspiring student community and look forward to continuing to see him reach for his dreams and beyond.
 

Name: Astro Nascak
Occupation: Environmental Steward at City of Milwaukie
Time Studying at Tierra: 1 year, 3 months

1.) Why are you studying Spanish?

"I originally started learning Spanish because I wanted to travel to South America and possibly live there one day. While that is still a dream of mine, these days I am also learning Spanish so I can better connect with Spanish speakers here in Portland, both personally and at work.

There is something really special about speaking to someone in their native language when they are not expecting it. The way their eyes light up makes me feel like I am helping them feel seen. I love connecting with people, and learning Spanish helps me do that with more and more depth over time.

I have also fallen in love with Spanish music and watching shows with the Spanish dub on. Being able to understand the lyrics of a song or follow a TV show, with subtitles for now, feels fun and rewarding, like I am relaxing while still engaging my brain. And whenever a class really pushes me to speak, I leave feeling energized, like my brain is on a high. Learning Spanish taps into something in my mind that nothing else does, and I love that feeling".

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

"I love so much about Tierra! I really like the small class sizes, which allow everyone to get lots of attention and feedback, as well as the pace of learning, which feels perfectly balanced, challenging without being overwhelming. I also love that Tierra is a small business; it feels less like an institution and more like a home for learning, which it literally is since classes are held in a house.

My favorite part, though, has been my teacher, Alexa. She is one of the most caring and engaging teachers I've ever had. She makes every class something I genuinely look forward to, not just through the exercises, but through her humor, stories, and warmth. She makes everyone feel comfortable and encouraged to keep trying, and she is truly amazing at teaching Spanish".

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

"During the Halloween season, I visited my partner's friend's family, who mostly speak Spanish. I was able to understand them fairly well, and they shared stories about their Día de los Muertos altar. They seemed relieved and happy to be able to explain it to me in Spanish, and it meant a lot to me to be part of that moment. I realized that much of what I understood came directly from things we had learned in class, including cultural topics like Día de los Muertos. Even small things, like ordering food or shopping at stores run by Spanish speakers, make a difference. Being able to order or ask a question in Spanish makes me feel more connected. I think it also helps people feel more comfortable, which makes me happy".

¡Felicidades Astro!