“My name is Stefano Lalama. My family is from Ecuador, but I was born here in the United States. I go to Hilliard Davidson High School where I do track and soccer. I’m also in Latino club and French club. Currently, I’m employed at the Dublin Kroger. I am very grateful for all the extracurricular activities I get to experience.

Growing up, I was taught English from my dad, as he learned it living in the States for a while. I also learned Spanish, but not as much as English because my dad wanted me to learn and speak English, because we live in the United States. I picked up a lot of Spanish from my aunts and cousins, and I use it around them and in my Spanish class at school.

A piece of advice I would give to another heritage student is that it’s important to value your culture and your heritage. It’s a part of who you are and you shouldn’t be ashamed of it. I love speaking and using Spanish because it’s a part of who I am, and in my opinion, it’s more fun to speak Spanish than English.

Studying my heritage language has benefited me in many ways. It has allowed me to have a better relationship with my family, and it has challenged me to learn new things. I’ve grown a lot from studying it, and I’m grateful my school has a great program for it.”

Gracias, Stefano—¡Muchas felicidades!