By Orlando Rodriguez  (Whetstone staff writer)

Dr. Martinez Sotelo | Whetstone

Dr. Martinez-Sotelo

Orlando Rodriguez: How long have you been teaching?

Dr. Abigail Martinez Sotelo: I have been teaching since 1998, which makes it 14 years.

OR: How have you changed your style since you started teaching?

AMS:  Well, I started off teaching in Mexico at a high school. I taught classes like literature and writing. Now I just teach all Spanish courses.

OR: What have you taught at Wesley College and what are you currently teaching.

AMS: I have taught all levels of Spanish except for 100 at Wesley. I am currently teaching 101 and Spanish conversation which is a level 200 course.

OR: What rewards do you personally get from teaching?

AMS: When my students really learn how to speak Spanish and enjoy the differences between the Spanish community and the American community.

OR: Where did you go to school and what was your major?

AMS: I went to school in Mexico for my BA. It is in Spanish literature. And I got my Master’s and Ph.D. from the University of Arizona.

OR: What drew you to this field?

AMS: I always wanted to follow my mother’s footstep but not on a high school level but at a university.

OR: What was your worst or most interesting job as a student?

AMS: I was an assistant for the basic language director.

OR: Where were you born and raised?

AMS: I was born and raised in the north of Mexico.

OR: What is your favorite movie?

AMS: One of my favorite movies is called “Pan’s Labyrinth.” It is by a Mexican director.

OR: Favorite book, poem or screen play?

AMS: My favorite book is “Don Quixote” de la Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes.

OR:  What is your favorite music or artist?

AMS: I really like Nirvana. Kirko Ban is my favorite.

OR: what are your favorite pastimes and hobbies?

AMS:  I like reading and going to the Movies with my son. It makes me happy.

OR: What are you most passionate about in life?

AMS: I am very passionate about my son. I want to set a great example not only in my profession but most and foremost as a mother. Especially in the world we live in today. I want my son to know that there is more to this world than riches and fame.