Lingua Franca

What I received from Salem State University

Daniel Godden, Spanish Program Alumnus

Hello all, I’m here to tell you about my experiences through college which brought me to where I am now: a Spanish teacher at a public high school. I began my college education as a Mathematics major. In the summer of 2008 I studied abroad in Oviedo, Spain for a month. I loved it. I fell in love with the language, culture and the people.

Upon returning I changed my major to Spanish. Later, in the fall of 2009, I studied abroad again, this time for a full semester. It was a fantastic experience. I lived with a host family. I learned so much, not only about the language, but also about myself.

I graduated with a B.A. in Spanish. I did not know for sure what I wanted to do, only that I wanted it to involve the use of my newly acquired language skills. A professor told me about a program in Spain where Americans can go teach English in a public school as a cultural ambassador. I chose to do the program and have not regretted that decision. It turned out to be another amazing experience and it confirmed my thoughts that I wanted to be a teacher. I was accepted for a position in Spain for the following year, but I decided it was time to find a job here in the U.S. I started applying, went through many interviews and was eventually offered a position. I am currently studying at Elms College for my M.A.T.

I also attended the 2013 annual MaFLA conference which was held in Sturbridge, MA. The conference involved a variety of workshops to help new and veteran teachers. As a new teacher, I learned so much about how to teach. There was also an exhibit hall which displayed language labs, textbooks and other things that aid in the learning process. I can honestly say that the education and experience I received from Salem State University led me to where I am now, and I am very happy with where I am. I am doing something I love, something that I was never sure I wanted to do.

To those reading this, I want you to do all you can while in school and take advantage of the opportunities presented, as I did. You never know where life will lead you.

Daniel Godden (on the left) with Palmer public school Spanish teachers Olga López and Kaylee Hotchkiss pose with Massachusetts 2013 Teacher of the Year Kathleen Turner at the MaFLA Annual Fall Conference