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Personal Reflection/Anecdote

open-air covered cafeteria, the covered walkways, the murals, and the hydroponic gardens tended by the
students. A teacher spoke about the school system and her philosophy of language teaching. The principal
talked about equity and peace in the
curriculum. We met four teachers
drafting an individualized education
program for a student of concern.
Similarly fascinating for the
teachers in the group was the
concert at the university. EARTH is
a private college, specializing in the
agronomy of tropical regions. There
are many international students,
predominantly from Africa and from
other Latin American nations. We
admired the extensive agricultural
grounds, the college buildings, and
the cafeteria service! Interacting with
student leaders and with the other
performers gave us a clear picture of
the high standards of scholarship at The author interacts with children at the school concert. Photo
this institution. courtesy of choir member Charlie Zhang.

Recommendation #2

When DKG members travel internationally, learning about the host country’s educational system and
visits to schools and colleges are of supreme interest. Field trips to educational institutions could be
attached to each conference and convention. Comparative descriptions of educational systems would be
outstanding material for the Society’s publications.

Lesson #3: Using One’s Spanish in a New Way

Prior to leaving Vancouver, the VMC leaders had asked me to prepare, in Spanish, a speech about the
chorale and our songs. My preparation included a children’s version for the school concert and a poetic
translation into Spanish of the Earth Song lyrics. I had expected that I would use plenty of Spanish in
hotels and restaurants, in chatting with the other choirs, and in translating for my fellow singers. But on
this trip, I ended up using my Spanish in new and unexpected ways. Never before had I given a speech
in Spanish in front of government officials and diplomats! Never before had I interacted in Spanish with
an entire school body at once! Never before had I been called upon to interpret during a music workshop
held in Spanish! What an opportunity this was for me—professional and personal growth rolled into one.

Recommendation #3

DKG has English as its lingua franca, and this will probably always be the case. But we have such
an opportunity for everyone, regardless of mother tongue, to learn from and enjoy other languages
represented in the Society. Not only would this show honor and regard for ALL members’ languages, but
it would be a growth opportunity for any individual member so inclined. Please, let’s do more in and with
ALL languages represented in the Society.

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