Hana Pearce has a lifelong love of the Spanish language, which she started learning at the age of just three. “I’ve always been fascinated by languages, and Spanish especially,” she says. 

During her studies at St Andrew’s, Hana enjoyed learning from Spanish teacher, Alexis Evlampieff, who prepared her well for future study at the University of Canterbury. “Thanks to the support of Mr Evlampieff and what I learnt at St Andrew’s, I entered straight into second year Spanish at University, and was able to continue building my Spanish knowledge.” 

While at university, Hana taught Spanish as a second language at the Selwyn House School Pre-school, which she says was a total joy. “I love sharing the possibilities that a new language can provide and a passion for learning new languages and experiencing new perspectives on the world.” After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Spanish and Linguistics, Hana received a scholarship to study in Spain at the University of La Rioja, which has programmes for foreign students to learn Spanish language and culture. “I’m really enjoying living and studying here, as it has been a dream of mine for a long time. When I get back to New Zealand in June, I plan to begin a Masters course in Applied Translation and Interpreting for Spanish or in Linguistics.”