Alberto Mora Vazquez

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Universidad Autonoma De Tamaulipas

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

After completing my EdD in TESOL in 2008, I have been teaching language related courses at my university. I have also been engaged in research related projects, with some research articles having been published in national and international journals.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I like to teach and keep abreast with new research developments in the TESOL and applied linguistics fields. I enjoy the opportunity that I have to meet new people through the work I do. At the same time, I also like the fact that my role as researcher gives me some sort of professional independence in my workplace as it is a high-stakes activity in my context.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

I really enjoyed the research training provided by the school of education and lifelong learning. I feel the training gave me a great deal of confidence in my research skills and now I think it is paying off.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I took into account several aspects. For example, I found out that it was a highly research-oriented university. I also found out that one the professors in my target program was a renowned scholar in my field choice. The mild weather in the city was also a major consideration.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Again, the research training I received there has been invaluable. I found it to be world class. I also think that the university invests in resources that are highly beneficial to students such as library, research support units, etc. When I was there, many of the academic staff members were known for their important contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their fields.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

I would encourage them to set high academic expectations for themselves and believe in themselves. I would also tell them that they can become anything they dream of. It is only through all the members’ contributions that our field can consolidate.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to continue seeking professional development opportunities. My goal is to be recognised as an applied linguistics scholar at the international level. On the more personal side of my life, I would like to continue providing my family with opportunities to pursue high quality education so they can become good citizens and persons.