Lian Núñez Fernández: Linguistically Sound

This second-year RBC student is fascinated by linguistics and how it impacts brain development.

By Sterling Giles

Tell us about yourself—where you’re from, family life, hobbies and interests that inspired you to major in what you’re currently studying.

My name is Lian Núñez Fernández (He/They). I am from Ponce, Puerto Rico and that is where most of my family currently lives as well. My hobbies are reading, writing and watching series—anything that can help me unwind after a long day. One of my biggest interests is in brain development and how it pertains to language. I intend to transfer to William & Mary this fall in order to pursue an education in Linguistics and Japanese Studies.

As for Japanese, I have been learning it for over seven years and it serves as my prime example of how language acquisition changes throughout your life. The older I become, the more effort is needed to remember and implement new, complex and nuanced ideas. This is something I find fascinating because it relates to brain plasticity and how our brains are able to adapt to the input we receive from the world around us. Currently, I am studying for an Associate of Arts degree here at Richard Bland College.

Why did you decide to attend RBC? How were you supported by your family and loved ones when you decided to attend?

I decided to attend RBC on my father’s recommendation. When looking for a school in Virginia, it was the best option in terms of opportunities for pathway programs and my interest in William & Mary solidified this decision. My family has been very supportive throughout this process, even when they can’t always be here physically.

What year are you (first- or second-year student)? By chance, are you an international student? If so, where are you from?

I am considered a second-year, but I originally came in as a transfer student from Puerto Rico. I take pride in having a distinct identity and getting to share it with others.

Are you a residential or commuter student? Whichever pertains to you, tell me about us experience and how you’re supported.

I have been a residential student for three semesters now. I am constantly grateful to have a space where I can focus on pursuing my studies and maintaining my lifestyle. Although our campus and community are rather small compared to other institutions, that is one of the reasons why it feels more like home. It is always great to interact with other students on campus and feel like you are actively engaging in educational settings daily.

What do you like most about the college? How have you been supported by the faculty and staff since you’ve been here?

What I like the most about Richard Bland College is its accessibility. The campus is easy to navigate, the community is welcoming and its modest size almost guarantees opportunities to make lifelong friendships.

The faculty has been helpful and insightful, especially during my first semester when I hadn’t yet found my footing. My Learner Mentor, Andrew Frazier, has been an incredible source of inspiration for me. He was the first to openly encourage my then-distant goals of transferring to William & Mary and never missed a chance to tell me I was more than capable of achieving what I set out to do.

What are you currently studying? What are your plans once you graduate from RBC?

I am currently studying for an Associate of Arts degree here at RBC. My plans after graduation are to transfer to William & Mary to continue my studies and hopefully set myself on track to earn my Master’s degree as well.

What would be your elevator pitch for someone who is on the fence about attending RBC?

I believe there are some decisions you can make only after you start moving forward. For me, that is what Richard Bland College was and still is. I didn’t know whether or not it would be the right fit until I came here, but the opportunities I discovered here allowed me to move past my uncertainties.

Have you received scholarships through RBC? If so, please name them.

I have received a merit scholarship due to being part of Promise Scholars. Once I transfer, I will receive an annual scholarship through the program to offset student loan costs during my two years there.