Interviewer: What is your name?
Gabriela: Gabriela Moya
Interviewer: What is your position at CSA?
Gabriela: Associate Director, World Languages
Interviewer: What does that position entail?
Gabriela: The World Languages department is new at CSA, which is exciting as I get to establish a solid foundation for its evolution and growth. In this role, it is my responsibility to locate talent that can collaborate with CSA to create projects that meet the needs and expectations of our clients. I also define and establish guidelines and working procedures for the different services we will be offering to our clients. Finally, I look for opportunities to work with existing clients and also new World Languages clients to explore ways we can create successful educational projects that are innovative, effective in the classroom, and keep students at the center as protagonists of the learning process.
Interviewer: How did you become a part of CSA?
Gabriela: I found the opening through LinkedIn, and it immediately caught my attention as it was both interesting and challenging. It seemed to me that after almost thirty years of work experience in educational publishing, it was the next logical step. This is why I decided to apply. Fortunately, I was selected for the position and here I am, very proud to be a part of this talented group of professionals.
Interviewer: What is the best part of your job?
Gabriela: The best part of World Languages is the opportunity to open doors to new experiences, foster understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives, and facilitate communication on a global scale for young students. Learning a new language can broaden horizons, enhance personal and professional opportunities, and promote intercultural competence. Additionally, speaking multiple languages can expand cognitive abilities and promote brain health. Ultimately, the best part of world languages lies in their power to bridge gaps and create meaningful connections among students.
Interviewer: What do you wish people knew about your work at CSA?
Gabriela: Most people believe that translating is just a matter of replacing words in the source language with similar terms in the target language. However, translation requires not only a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, but also comprehensive knowledge of both cultures, societies as well as subject matters, along with strong linguistic and creative skills. It involves maintaining a balance between faithfulness to the original text and adapting it appropriately for the target language students.
Interviewer: What do you wish schools focused on more in terms of education and why?
Gabriela: I truly believe that students should be put at the center of the learning process. When students are at the center of learning, they become active participants in their education. They are encouraged to ask questions, explore their interests, and take ownership of their learning journey. By doing this, educators create a more student-focused and engaging environment that promotes deeper learning, critical thinking, collaboration, and the development of essential skills needed for success in the 21st century.
Interviewer: What are three interesting facts about you?
Gabriela: I love classical music, opera, and symphonic orchestras. I try to attend as many concerts as possible, sometimes three during one weekend. My dream is to watch a live opera performance in the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City or the Royal Opera House in London. I live in Puebla, Mexico, near an active volcano that besides being a little scary, gives us the opportunity to watch the most breathtaking sunsets.
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