Language ideologies can powerfully shape language learner perceptions and progress. This qualitative study investigated and reports findings based on analysis of interviews with 14 participants who self-identify as advanced users of Spanish. While dominant language ideologies in the U.S. often undermine learners reaching high levels of language competence, some learners still do, and it is useful to examine the ideological environment in which this success takes place. The data set was collected via questionnaire and semi-structured, participant interviews. This study applied open and value coding to the ways participants narrated their experiences. Data analysis identified three participant profiles: the monolingual leaner, the multilingual learner, and the heritage learner. While learners participated in similar institutions, the meanings they applied to learning Spanish varied. Analysis connected participant responses with language ideologies and examined ways participants appropriated and resisted language ideologies. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]