Meet Paloma Fernández Sánchez

Paloma Fernández Sánchez is a passionate educator and advocate for Latinx and Hispanic students. Originally from Spain, Fernández Sánchez’s journey has taken her across the world from studying filología inglesa in her home country to completing a Ph.D. in Spanish at Indiana University Bloomington. With over 12 years of experience, she is dedicated to teaching Spanish and mentoring students, particularly those from Latine backgrounds. As a teaching professor and faculty advisor, she continues to inspire and empower her students through her love of language, culture and social advocacy. Whether she’s sharing the works of Hispanic and Latinx women writers or offering advice to her students, Fernández Sánchez’s passion for education and community shines through every step of the way.

Why did you choose to teach at UNC Charlotte?

I was excited to accept the position because it combined teaching in the Spanish program with advising students. At that time, I recognized the growing Latine and Hispanic student population at UNC Charlotte and saw the potential to make a meaningful impact. This role allowed me to merge my passion for teaching Spanish with my dedication to supporting and mentoring students, particularly those from Latine and Hispanic backgrounds.

What inspired your initial journey from Spain to the United States for further studies in Spanish?

In my first undergraduate course in filología inglesa, there was an emphasis on how English and Spanish are closely linked. During my undergraduate and early graduate studies, I took several classes focused on Chicano and Latine communities in the United States. I explored their history, politics, immigration and language. Since I enjoyed studying abroad as an undergrad, my professors and mentors encouraged me to pursue another graduate program at a university in the United States.

How has your background in Filología inglesa and North American Studies influenced your approach to teaching Spanish and mentoring students?

I began learning English and French as a child, shaping my understanding of languages. Later, during my graduate studies in Spain, I focused on Latina writers and the role of code-switching, and Spanglish in the literature produced by these authors. This background has enriched my teaching by connecting language learning with sociocultural contexts and my personal experience.

How do you integrate the voices of Hispanic and Latinx women writers into your courses, and what impact do you hope this has on your students?

I center their works in course materials, facilitating discussions on themes relevant to Hispanic and Latine communities and highlighting their unique perspectives on identity, culture and social issues. This approach empowers students to appreciate the diversity within these communities. I’ve seen how students, especially those with similar backgrounds, see their experiences reflected in the material, making the learning experience more meaningful.

As a mentor and advisor to Latine and Hispanic students, what advice do you frequently give to those navigating their academic and personal journeys?

I encourage students to embrace their multilingual identities, take pride in their language abilities and celebrate their heritage. As America Ferrera said, “[Our] identity is a superpower.” I also urge them to build relationships with faculty and mentors, join student organizations and connect with supportive networks that can help them thrive.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, what is a book, movie, or song from the Hispanic world that you think everyone should experience?

There are so many! Off the top of my head: “La Gozadera” by Marc Anthony and “Gente de Zona, Latinoamérica” by Calle 13, and books like “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros and “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” by Erika L. Sánchez. For documentaires, “The Graduates/Los Graduados” (PBS) and “Voces: American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos.”

If you could host a dinner party with three Hispanic or Latinx icons (alive or deceased), who would you invite and why?

I would invite America Ferrera, José Andrés and Mayra Santos-Febres. America Ferrera uses her platform to challenge stereotypes and elevate Latine stories, which I admire. Chef José Andrés would bring amazing food and his humanitarian work is inspiring. I also love his philosophy of using food to foster community and address global crises. Lastly, Mayra Santos-Febres, a poet and professor, illuminates Afro-Caribbean experiences in her work and challenges societal norms. Together, they represent art, activism and advocacy. I imagine the conversation would be rich, touching on everything from culture and identity to social change.

What’s a favorite dish from your culture that you would recommend everyone try at least once?

I would say everyone should try croquetas de jamón, without a doubt!