My last year in Camden I had roommate named Jaeduck Park, who we affectionately called the Krazy Korean. At the time he was studying for his second Masters in Linguistics at the University of Pennsylvania. We became quick friends. He was always whipping up exotic Korean concoctions in the kitchen. When I would try them, he would reply with one of his pat sayings, like "You my friend man!" (Insert cool Asian accent)
We both moved away in 2007. He took a job with the government in Monterrey, California teaching intensive Korean language classes to CIA-types by day. At night he teaches English as a second language at a local community college to Mexican immigrants. Through his experience he's become very interested in the Spanish language and culture. So when he heard I would be in Mexico for 6 months, he didn't hesitate to book a flight for a visit.
It's been amazing to watch him attack the language from such a technical standpoint. Despite having no formal Spanish education, he's constantly asking about different verb tenses and grammar structure. Unlike most tourists he actually uses his Spanish/English dictionary with incredible efficiency. He's developed his own entourage of kids who follow him around, so he's had plenty of time to put his knowlege to use while I'm working in the clinic. Not to mention, he's a really funny guy, which he finds a way to transcend with his limited language skills. I'm glad he's here. We'll be heading to Mexico City together this weekend for a little descanso.
No comments:
Post a Comment