DustDevils in Spain

On board for a new experience, twelve Texas A&M International University students studied and lived in Spain this past summer from June 23rd through July 30th, 2011 with the Study Abroad Program. TAMIU offers courses every summer for graduate and undergraduate credit while having the opportunity to traditions the customs and experience of another country. Students received two transferable courses, literature and history.

Associate Professor of the Spanish Department, Dr. Agustin Samos said, "It is important to know that the Hispanic world, in general, comes from the same core root but disperses into distinct branches of the Spanish culture."

For five weeks, the students not only experienced the Spaniard class room setting but the distinct differences of its customs such as traditional meals, folk dances, sight-seeing and long walks through the towns and plazas. TAMIU Student and Spanish major, who participated in the 2010 summer trip, Irma Ortegon said, "Any free moment I had, I would go walk and just wonder the city."

As well as the other students, Ortegon was housed with a family who would care for her during the stay in Spain. She learned to coexist and understand people with similar yet distinct customs and traditions than her own, and in exchange, the family learned from her American customs as well. "We're all the same in this world," Ortegon shared, "and at one point, we are all united with the same needs; I thought that was very important."

Additionally, students had the opportunity to visit other neighboring cities or countries on their free time. Ortegon visited The Alhambra in Granada, Spain which is known for its rich culture dating back to the 14^th century. "Ah! The Alhambra" Ortegon recalled, "It was so historical for them because it's when the Moorish people used to be there; they call it ‘the city within a city' very interesting."

On the economic standpoint, the estimated cost for the entire trip, last summer, was an average of $3,800 which covered residency, three meals a day from Monday-Saturday, laundry services, entry-fees towards events and such places as museums, four-star hotels, and on-land transportation. This does not include airline charges and academic courses taken.

Every semester, TAMIU Study Abroad students share their experiences with those who are considering the program as well. The event and specific dates are to be announced on the TAMIU online calendar. 

It's known as a chance to live in personal growth for the mind, body, and soul. As Dr. Samos advised, "Go. Don't think of anything, just be. Don't worry about what is left behind at home; it's a chance for personal nourishment."

For more information regarding the Study Abroad Program, contact the Associate Professor of the Spanish Department, Dr. Agustin Samos at (956)326-2610, or reach him, via e-mail, at jmartinez-samos@tamiu.edu. Lastly, all information regarding Study Abroad opportunities can be found directly on www.tamiu.edu/dip/oie/Spain.shtml.

(You may also contact Bridge Reporter(s), Claudia M. Torres at cayitamtoles@dusty.tamiu.edu and/ or Margaret Rose Medellin at margaretmedellin@dusty.tamiu.edu.)