Whether it is with his co-workers, family members, or his customers, Herminio Santiago is always looking for ways to practice and perfect his English.
“I want to take full advantage. I want to correct the words I am mispronouncing and understand what they mean,” explained Herminio.
Herminio’s constant desire to practice the English language was born out of an invitation he received from Los Tacos No.1 to participate in the English Advance (formerly English at Work) program. He had never taken an English class before, but eagerly accepted the opportunity as he noticed a lack of client communication in himself.
The journey to his first English class began when Herminio immigrated to the United States at 16. His brothers encouraged him to follow in their footsteps after seeing the vast amount of job opportunities available in the States. He started off in construction and worked at Los Tacos No.1 as a second job until he started obtaining leadership positions. He is now proud to say he holds the title of Regional Supervisor with the company.
Herminio was not alone in this journey, and he credits the support of his co-workers and Los Tacos No.1. The taqueria offered to pay for the work hours he would dedicate to his classes, giving Herminio that financial boost to keep going. As a father, Herminio is also grateful for his family, who acted as a system of encouragement during his time learning English.
“I have a 13-year-old who I would try to talk to in English before, and she would joke with me, but did not have the heart to correct me. It was not until I began taking the English classes that I understood what I was saying wrong and could correct myself,” said Herminio with a laugh.
Hermino has now turned full circle and says he is eager to support his co-workers in their journey to learn English. He is doing this by giving them the attention and communication he experienced with his instructor during English Advance.
Herminio continues to have educational goals and is grateful that Los Tacos No.1 gave him the stepping stone to use English at his work site, and the confidence to communicate with others at his job or when he is out with his family eating at a restaurant.
“I value the effort of Los Tacos No.1 for wanting to better their general managers and the rest of their team.”
For Herminio, English Advance is an important step to reaching his ultimate goal of becoming English proficient.
The Forum would like to thank Cristal Sanchez, Business Engagement and Inclusion Programs Intern, for capturing this story.