BA and MA, Spanish Language and Literature, San Jose State University
MA, Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL), San Jose State University

The educational experience that had the greatest impact on Paola collaborating with and learning from people of many different backgrounds while in graduate school. She brings this mindset to her work at Bay. She is passionate about exposing students to a new way of seeing the world, and they often surprise her with their creativity in conveying something, even when they don't have the vocabulary. 

Precept affinity: We value patience with ourselves and others; we don't rush to judgment. “It is a good reminder, especially when we are constantly exposed to ‘perfection’ in media and when we don't live up to whatever standard we or others have set for us, that we need to be kind to ourselves. This precept is especially true for language learners.”

Favorite things: Her corgi, Piccadilly, who is Instagram-famous; all things corgi-related; Acre’s coconut curry; competition shows—RuPaul’s Drag Race, Glow Up, you get the picture.

Currently teaching: Spanish 2, Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1