For the DFW Metroplex Immigrants Oral History Project. Mexican-born immigrant to Denton, Texas, and UNT professor. Childhood in Mexico City; parents’ desire to relocate family to U.S.; decision to attend Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa; culture shock and homesickness; marriage to Curt Beckman; decision to earn Ph.D. in Spanish Literature from University of Iowa; hired at UNT; efforts to remain in touch with family members in Mexico.