After my time as a child in St Thomas where I was exposed to many Spanish speakers from nearby Puerto Rico, I always hoped to be able to live in an area where I could better my Spanish speaking skills later in life. I was presented with an opportunity to do so when I was stationed in California during my time in the Navy. I spent many years in Central and Southern California amidst predominantly Latino communities where Spanish was used often. I frequented taquerias and the many local traditional Mexican pastry shops and was able to indulge my love of Mexican cuisine. Hearing phrases and reading signs frequently has helped improve my ability to understand the language though I still have a ways to go. I eagerly look forward to my next opportunity to further immerse myself in Hispanic communities and improve my communication as both a speaker and as a listener. I think studying or taking an internship abroad could be a very helpful next endeavor in my journey as a Spanish speaker.