About Spanish Nerd Inc

Hey there, I’m Curtis Silbaugh, the face behind Spanish Nerd Inc.

My fascination with Spanish started back in second grade. Every morning when we got to class, my teacher showed us a new Spanish word or phrase. By the end of that year, I had my own little Spanish dictionary – and I still have it today!

Learning Spanish in School

Fast forward to high school and college, where Spanish was always my favorite subject. When it came time to pick my major, I didn’t even have to think twice. I knew I wanted my Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Foreign Language Studies from the University of Iowa. 

Outside of class,  I was also tutoring Spanish students on and off campus while working for JCPenney’s and Home Instead Senior Care.

Summer Travels

The summers, however, were the real game-changers. I spent my summers traveling through different Latin American countries. Sometimes, I had friends with me, and other times, I went solo.

When I travelled to Latin America, I explored Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Each place added something special to my understanding of the Spanish language and how it’s spoken across Latin America.

Spanish in the Workplace

Still tutoring Spanish, I landed a job at a Mexican restaurant right out of college at El Paraiso, a local restaurant in Cedar Rapids Iowa. While not my ultimate goal, it was a crucial step.

Not long after, I landed a role as a Spanish interpreter and translator at Hands Up Communications, helping Spanish speakers connect within our community.

Starting Spanish Nerd Inc

In 2021, Spanish Nerd came to life. I wanted Spanish to be more than a skill; I wanted to share it. So, I created this space for beginner Spanish learners, and I’m thrilled to have you join me on your journey.

Please reach out if you have any questions!