Introducing Me

 

Welcome to My blog 

Hello, everyone! My name is Alba R. Sánchez, and I am delighted to share a glimpse of my journey with you. I am currently a senior, pursuing a major in Spanish Education with a minor in History. Over the years, I have developed a deep fascination for the world of literature, especially magical stories and fairy tales. These tales remind me of my childhood, of the moments when I would laugh at movies that, although far from reality, made me imagine myself in another world or universe.

I decided to take this class because it seemed like a fun and exciting way to explore new perspectives on literacy and creativity. I believe it will be an enriching experience to delve deeper into how reading and writing shape our lives and connect with the stories we tell each other.

Throughout my life, I’ve faced challenges with stuttering, which made speaking and participating in school difficult, despite excelling in tasks like exams. It wasn’t that I couldn’t understand the material; rather, it was the fear of speaking that held me back. By second grade, I was still unable to read, which made me feel even more isolated from my peers. Although my mom sought help from a doctor, it was a teacher who truly transformed my experience.

This teacher recognized that my stuttering had much to do with my lack of confidence. She worked with me to build my self-esteem, encouraging me to read aloud in front of a mirror, taking my time to speak slowly and clearly. Little by little, I gained more confidence in my voice. It wasn’t just about learning to read—it was about finding my voice and realizing that I could express myself, even if it took a little longer.

My mom played an integral role in my growth. She ensured that I was prepared both academically and emotionally. There were countless hours spent in therapy sessions and after-school programs, as well as discussions at home about the importance of persistence. Through her dedication, I learned the power of patience and the impact that support and encouragement can have on a person’s growth.

Once I mastered reading, my love for literature blossomed. I discovered a passion for stories that allowed me to escape into other worlds, and soon, my imagination became limitless. Writing stories and journaling became a creative outlet for me. I had diaries full of ideas, and every story I wrote took me further into a world of imagination. Today, I’m working on a children’s book inspired by my journey and plan to publish it soon. It’s a way for me to share my story with others, especially children who might face their own challenges with reading and speaking.

As I grew older, I became more sociable, fueled by my love for literature and the way it brought people together. Yet, even as I found my voice through reading and writing, I often faced frustration with the impatience and lack of empathy from my classmates. It wasn’t always easy to deal with, but these experiences only motivated me to push forward. I came to understand that overcoming obstacles—whether in speech or in academics—was a matter of resilience and belief in oneself.

These challenges played a significant role in shaping my aspirations. My experiences with stuttering, along with my mother’s unwavering support, inspired me to want to become a teacher. I want to create a space where students, no matter their struggles, feel supported and encouraged to grow. I believe that teaching is a two-way street, where I can learn from my students while sharing the lessons I’ve learned throughout my own life. I want to use the strategies that worked for me and practice those that didn’t, always seeking alternatives because every student deserves a safe space to grow academically and personally.

Looking back on my journey, I realize that literacy has always been more than just reading and writing. It’s been about learning to express myself, to find confidence in my voice, and to embrace the power of imagination. As I continue my journey as a student and soon-to-be teacher, I remain deeply grateful for the people who have shaped my path. Literacy, for me, is not just an academic skill—it’s a life skill that shapes how I navigate the world and connect with others.

Although it was a late start to reading, my mom made sure I was prepared academically and personally. She supported me through therapy and homework sessions every week.

Once I learned to read, my passion for literature grew, and my imagination took off. I enjoyed writing stories and keeping diaries, and now I’m working on a children’s book based on my journey, which I plan to publish soon.

I was frustrated by the lack of patience and empathy from my classmates, but this motivated me to push forward. My experiences inspired me to become a teacher, where I hope to create a supportive space for students to grow.false