I’m a Cuban-American applied linguist and language educator currently completing my PhD in Applied Linguistics at the University of Memphis. My work focuses on multilingual education and how students use their full linguistic repertoires to learn new languages in culturally diverse communities.

I’ve spent many years teaching Spanish and English, and I regularly travel for research and educational projects. Travel, for me, is about learning from people, languages, and everyday life in different places.

Personally, I’m a calm, respectful, and independent person. I enjoy meaningful conversation, but I’m equally comfortable working quietly and keeping a low profile in a shared space. I practice yoga, enjoy reading, cooking with others, and exploring local neighborhoods, food, and culture. I speak English and Spanish fluently and love opportunities for language and cultural exchange.

I value kindness, mutual respect, and intercultural understanding, and I truly appreciate the generosity that makes Couchsurfing possible.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I use Couchsurfing to connect with local people, learn about everyday life in different cultures, and experience places beyond tourism.

In 2026, I’ll be visiting Bilbao for a short research stay at the University of the Basque Country, and I’m especially interested in learning about Basque language and culture.

I’m happy to stay for short periods, adapt to my host’s routine, and contribute through conversation, cooking, or sharing about my research and travels.

Interests

reading, practicing yoga, learning new languages, traveling, teaching, socializing, watching good movies and quality television, dancing...

• dancing
• cooking
• yoga
• movies
• reading
• traveling
• socializing
• teaching
• languages

Music, Movies, and Books

I'm a language nerd, so I love reading anything that gives me a deeper understanding of how language is created in the mind. Also, I'm on a constant journey to understand my background, so any books that serve as personal commentary of the communist Cuba experience fill my bookshelves at this current moment.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I climbed the Sierra Maestra in Granma, Cuba...walked the same trail as Fidel Castro but it didn't do anything to deepen my understanding of what a madman he became, only that he had incredible stamina, strength, and endurance as a young man. That climb is tougher than tough, and I didn't even reach the summit!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I’m an easygoing and respectful guest. I’m happy to cook a meal, share stories from my travels and research, practice English or Spanish, or simply bring a small gift from my home.

I’m also very comfortable being independent and keeping a quiet routine if that works best for my host.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, China, Cuba, Dominican Republic, England, Germany, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Spain, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

South Korea, United States