Yair C    Your Spanish Tutor from Lima, Peru, with a Passion for Languages, Sports, and Cultural Exploration!

What is your favorite word in your language and why?

"My favorite word in Spanish is curiosidad because it is the foundation of all learning. As a teacher, I believe that fostering curiosity in my students is key to inspiring them to explore, ask questions, and engage deeply with the world around them. Curiosity drives not just academic achievement, but a lifelong passion for discovery and growth."

What is your favorite dish from your hometown? If you no longer live there is there a good local restaurant that serves it?

My best dish is the Peruvian ceviche. It's a refreshing and vibrant dish made with fresh fish, usually sea bass or similar white fish, marinated in lime juice. The acidity of the lime ‘cooks’ the fish, giving it a tender texture. It's seasoned with finely chopped red onions, cilantro, and spicy ají peppers, which add a perfect balance of heat and flavor. Often served with sweet potatoes and corn, the contrasting flavors and textures make it a truly unique experience. Peruvian ceviche reflects the freshness of coastal ingredients and the rich culinary heritage of Peru." Most people prefer to order ceviche with chicharon which is fried chicken but with special ingredients.

Besides the languages you teach, do you speak or study any other languages?

I Speak Potuguese, I learned while i was living in Brasil but i got some semesters of portuguese classes at school. It is a really intersting lenguage and beautiful culture that you can get involve quickly. I want to continue stuying french, it is one of the lenguages that is taking me longer time to learn on my own but i want to be able to communicate in french soon.

What are your interests outside of teaching at Strommen?

"Outside of teaching at Strommen, I am deeply passionate about sports, especially outrigger canoeing. I’ve had the honor of representing Peru in the Pan-American Games in this discipline. Competing at such a level has taught me the value of perseverance, teamwork, and discipline—qualities I strive to instill in my students. Sports have always been a source of balance and inspiration for me, and I enjoy staying active while promoting a healthy, determined mindset both in and outside of the classroom."

What do you consider your hometown? Why do you love it?

"I consider my hometown to be any place where I can connect with new friends and where those friends welcome me into their homes. For me, home is defined by the relationships and sense of community rather than a specific location. I love the warmth and hospitality that comes from sharing experiences with others, learning about their cultures, and building lasting connections. Each new friendship adds to my sense of belonging, making every place feel like home when I'm surrounded by open-hearted people."