Episode #80 - English as a 2nd Language by Veronica Castillo

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791 Podcast, I welcome Veronica Castillo to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Born in El Paso, Texas, Veronica’s story starts with a dramatic relocation when her family moved to Iowa City, Iowa so her father could pursue his degree in psychiatry. As a young Spanish speaking child, Veronica was suddenly tossed into a new and unfamiliar atmosphere and language, with little support and no English speaking skills.

Thrown into the public school system, Veronica had to fend for herself in an unfamiliar world and learn the language by using her eyes and watching. For the next 13 years, she didn’t just survive, she thrived learning English as a second language. Her mother was the driving force behind her, offering encouragement and imploringher be determined to learn English and succeed in school. She soon started to overcome barriers and build a path to higher education. Veronica would go on to graduate from the University of Iowa and later earn a master’s degree from Edgewood College in Madison, WI.

After wearing many hats in the professional world, gaining experience in various roles, Veronica has now found her calling with the Waunakee Neighborhood Connection who provides programs and resources that engage neighbors to support and empower one another. Her story is an example of perseverance, cultural pride, and the power of determination and never giving up. From humble beginnings to community leader, she’s here to share how she has survived and thrived. You won’t want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN’T WAIT!!!