Spanish Language and Culture Are Brought to Life in Cadiz
Rivers students jumped out of their comfort zones and dove head first into Spanish culture this summer in the coastal city of Cadiz, Spain.
Rivers students jumped out of their comfort zones and dove head first into Spanish culture this summer in the coastal city of Cadiz, Spain.
The summer session, lasting from June 11 to June 27, brought Spanish language, art, and history to life for students and gave them an opportunity to homestay with Spanish families, set off on weekend excursions, and experience several hands-on learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom. The 12 student participants were accompanied by faculty members Feryal Sacristán Munoz and Melinda Ryan from the Rivers Spanish Department.
The summer session, lasting from June 11 to June 27, brought Spanish language, art, and history to life for students and gave them an opportunity to homestay with Spanish families, set off on weekend excursions, and experience several hands-on learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom. The 12 student participants were accompanied by faculty members Feryal Sacristán Munoz and Melinda Ryan from the Rivers Spanish Department.
“It was so exciting being in Spain with a fresh group of students and experiencing first hand their cultural journey, from initial trepidation to embracing the culture of Spain with open arms and open hearts,” said Ryan.
Students attended morning language classes followed by afternoon sessions focused on traditional life in Spain. These sessions often included field trips to places where students could learn on site about elements of culture like cooking and dance.
On the weekends, students ventured to other cities like Granada, Madrid, and La Mancha, transforming classroom lessons into tangible experiences. Reid Gilligan ’12, described his visit to the Prado Museum as a particularly memorable experience.
“It was amazing to see the same masterpieces that we had studied in class,” he said. “I was able to see the Dos de Mayo among other works of Goya as well as Velázquez.”
The home stay with local Spanish families was perhaps one of the most unforgettable aspects of the Summer Session in Cadiz. By living and conversing with their host families, students forged lasting relationships and were completely immersed in the Spanish culture. Developing friendships with these families encouraged students to hone their Spanish conversation skills.
“It seems crazy that I can have such a strong relationship with someone with a language barrier, but I improved my Spanish because I really wanted to know what she had to say,” said Dave Feldman ’12, referring to his host mother.
Traveling and living in Spain this summer led to both academic and personal growth for these Rivers students. What began as an intimidating leap out of their comfort zones ended as a set of lessons to carry with them for life.
“The students rose to challenges great and small with adaptability and good humor, made tremendous growth, and had an unforgettable experience that left them with friends and family that they will have forever,” said Ryan.
Click here for the 2011 Summer Session in Cadiz photo gallery.
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