BELOIT — Already a talented architect, Vanessa Hernandez realized that she would need to improve her English language skills when she moved from Colombia to the United States. Seeking out a program that would align with her needs, she discovered the English Language Learner program at Blackhawk.
“Although I started visiting different countries when I was young, the adventure of living here has been difficult for me,” Vanessa said. “I had to adapt to a new language and different customs. That is why the BTC team, especially Professor Brianna Deering, has been fundamental in these processes to learn English and have more confidence in myself and my abilities.”
The free (for Wisconsin residents) Blackhawk ELL program provides classes for all levels of learners on BTC’s campus, at the Beloit Public Library, and through the Beloit Even Start Family Literacy Program. The Even Start program allows parents with small children to bring their children with them instead of adding the burden of finding childcare.
Vanessa is eager to start working in her chosen profession, architecture, and open an interior design business doing commercial and residential remodeling with a concept that invites clients to appreciate and acquire Colombian art.
“My country has more than 40 indigenous communities,” she said. “Each one survives, to a great extent, from the manufacture of handicrafts, but for different reasons, they are very vulnerable communities. So, it would make me immensely happy to be able to support their work.”
The current ELL classes include students from Peru, Mexico, South Korea, Albania, and Colombia.
“We have students who have degrees in nursing, engineering, architecture, and dentistry,” said instructor Brianna Deering.
Along with these students who already have established careers, students in the ELL program are applying to the EMT program, the ultrasound program, the GED program, and the welding program.
Vanessa is thankful for the way that Blackhawk has welcomed her and others who have come from abroad.
“It shows that the College is an institution that has open doors for everyone,” she said. “We are excited to be a part of BTC.”
Brianna is thrilled to have students as eager to learn as Vanessa is.
“She is a hard-working, dedicated student who always comes to class ready to learn. She brings an enthusiasm for learning and a unique cultural perspective that engages all who meet her. Vanessa is a talented ELL student and gifted architect whose kind and outgoing nature makes her a pleasure to work with,” Brianna said.
While not studying, Vanessa accompanies her husband on work trips around the country. On these travels, she enjoys photographing interesting natural features and architecture.
Her advice to any students thinking about how BTC might fit into their future is “don’t miss out on starting a program here because this is the best way to find better job opportunities. Opportunities don’t happen — you create them,” she said.
