Amy Murphy, E-Learning Specialist, has been with Capitol Federal® for two years designing, developing and administrating training courses for employees. Outside of Capitol Federal, Amy spends her time traveling the world. She has visited more than 20 countries across the globe and is fluent in Spanish. One of Amy’s favorite hobbies is teaching English to Spanish speakers. We recently sat down with Amy to discuss her worldly travels and how being bilingual helps her today.
Visiting numerous countries can be quite eye opening. Which country has been the most important and why?
There are two countries which have been almost equally impactful: Russia and Haiti. I went to Russia when I was barely 18, and it was my first time ever being on a plane. I went on the trip with one of my closest friends, and we went to go see her family there. Luckily, she spoke the language and was able to help out immensely, but it was definitely a culture shock. That trip alone sparked my love for traveling, and I haven’t stopped since.
Visiting Haiti was a more troubling, yet humbling experience. The poverty in many parts of the country is heartbreaking. Visiting a place like that definitely made me more appreciative and grateful for all of the luxuries and conveniences I have here.
Of all the countries you have visited, which one has been your favorite?
That’s a tough one! I would have to say either Ireland or Spain. I’ve felt at home and comfortable each time I’ve been to Ireland, and Spain will always hold a piece of my heart. I studied abroad in Spain in college and have made multiple trips back since, with the most recent this past May. But, I must say, Argentina has the best food - hands down.
If you didn’t have to worry about finance or requesting time off, where would you travel?
If finances or requesting time off weren’t an issue, I would spend a great deal of time in East Asia. I have many friends I haven’t been able to see in a few years due to them being there. Because of the travel time to get there, I would need a few weeks off in order to visit the many places I’d like to. Exploring Japan and South Korea would be the highlights, but I would also like to go down to Thailand or Indonesia.
What motivated you to teach English to Spanish speakers?
The majority of my closest friends are not from the United States, and as English is currently the international language, it’s the language we mostly use to communicate. Throughout the years, I have helped speakers of many languages including Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Spanish with their English language journey. With Spanish, however, it’s easier to make connections to their first language if the person helping them also speaks that language. That’s where I come in. I really enjoy teaching English to second language learners in more of an informal setting.
How has speaking two languages benefited you within the workplace?
Speaking Spanish has definitely come in handy. There have been times where I’ve been able to help translate, to the best of my ability, both in the branch and in the Call Center. It provides a great opportunity to accommodate the customer making them feel as comfortable as possible while ensuring their needs are met.
How do you think being bilingual will continue to benefit you in the future?
There is an extreme Spanish speaking need in the United States, and I think the more people speaking both English and Spanish the better. Many job postings have a preference for bilingual candidates, and that has definitely worked to my advantage in the past. Learning multiple languages changes your view on the world while making you a better-rounded person.
Amy, we wish you safe and pleasant travels on your next trip around the world! Thank you for all that you do for the Bank and being True Blue®!
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