An Interview With My Argentine Grandmother

Recorded November 28, 2018 Archived November 28, 2018 26:10 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id: APP578649

Description

Estela Fernandez, born on December 6th of 1940, is the daughter of European refugees who came to Buenos Aires, Argentina during World War 1. She talks about her fondest memories, such as hanging out with her families on the weekends, studying literature and psychology at the University of Buenos Aires (one of the top 100 universities in the world), and how her transition to other countries were like. She also compares political and social problems of the United States to what is happening to her country right now. She wants to leave a message to young people, saying that if you don’t put enough strength or courage, you won’t go forward in life; it is best to study and think about your choices wisely.

What were your first memories?
- I remember going to my grandmother’s house to reunite with my family on the weekends. We were always united and I love my grandparents. They came as refugees from Italy, France, and Spain. They came here with nothing, but like any immigrant, they worked hard for a better life.

What memories do you have of your secondary and university school?
- Throughout all my school career, I went to public. Primary was public. Secondary was public. Even university was public and free. But now, Argentine parents feel the need to put their children into private schools because there are too many political problems and strikes in public schools. Same as university. The kids just want to study.

What do you think of Argentina trying to strip away the public school system?
- I don’t think that will ever happen. We are very passionate about education, and after all, public schools exist for the people who can’t pay. Education should be for everyone. The government itself needs to focus on paying instead of putting themselves into other international chaos.

Participants

  • Estela Fernandez

Interview By

Languages