Ph.d. in Spanish, have taught at universities and a high school.

Mark A.

I am a native of Tucson, Arizona and lived almost all of my life here. I have a B.A., M.A. and Ph.D in Spanish Literature from the University of Arizona. It seemed natural to me to be a Wildcat, because my father was a business professor there for 24 years. I am currently living in Tucson.

I finished my Ph.D. in December 2010. I specialized in Medieval and Golden Age literature from Spain but with my minor areas of Colonial Latin American, Modern Peninsular (Spanish) and other coursework in Latin American Literature. I have been taught Spanish at the University of Arizona, University of Arkansas and Arizona State University as well as BASIS Chandler High School. I have worked in social services and used my Spanish in that work. I have taught all levels of Spanish language, literature and culture, from first semester language courses to doctoral seminars in Medieval Spanish literature. I recently completed a yearlong certificate program in Spanish translation and interpretation at Pima College.

I help students appreciate both the fine details of Spanish grammar and how the language fits with a vital cultural context. For me both knowledge of the rules and proficiency are important, so I value shifting between careful study to opportunities for free conversation. I am glad to work with students with many different types of needs for learning Spanish.

Please contact me to see if we'd be a good fit and set up your first lesson!