Q&A: Glen Burnie High School Spanish Teacher Nylca VanDillen

Patch caught up with Spanish teacher Nylca VanDillen on Monday during 's .

We stopped her to ask Five Questions ...

Glen Burnie Patch: How long have you taught at Glen Burnie?
Nyka VanDillen: This is my first year. I came here [from Severna Park High School] to teach the BMAH students.

Glen Burnie Patch: Are you a native Spanish speaker?
VanDillen: Yes, I'm from Puerto Rico.

Glen Burnie Patch: How do you integrate medical education into your Spanish curriculum?
VanDillen: In every lesson we have something we learn that deals with the medical field, whether it's learning the body parts or how to talk to a doctor—both from a patient's perspective and a doctor's perspective.

Glen Burnie Patch: What were you surprised by when you began teaching the BMAH students?
VanDillen: I knew I was going to get a good group. But what I didn't know is that they'd be so focused. And at that age to have a group of kids who know that they want to be in the health field, is just great.

Glen Burnie Patch: What do you have planned for the students this year?
VanDillen: As a Spanish teacher, I just want them not to be afraid of Spanish. Many times the biggest roadblock is the fear of learning a new language. I want to make it fun and accessible.

Editor's note: This article has been updated to correct the spelling of Nylca VanDillen's first name.