At EUROACE, we recently had the pleasure of hosting a group of students from Washington State University (WSU) for an intensive Spanish immersion programme in Valencia. Today, we interviewed Joseba, one of the group supervisors, to discuss the transformative student experience and the crucial importance of learning Spanish in Spain. Discover how language immersion programmes can revolutionise your Spanish learning journey. Read the full interview below:
1. What were your expectations before arriving in Valencia, and how were your first impressions upon arriving in the city and at our school?
Having visited Valencia on just one previous occasion and for a brief period, I was aware that the city had much more to offer than what we were able to experience at that time, so I was excited to return and experience the city without the frantic pace that tourist visits demand. I tried to convey this same excitement to the WSU students and we were successful. They were enchanted by the architectural beauty, the promise of optimal weather, the freshness of a sea swim, and the delicious gastronomy of the Terreta.
EUROACE welcomed us with open arms. We were in constant communication throughout the entire programme, both with management and staff, who guided and supported us continuously. Friendliness and flexibility are aspects that I believe define this company. There were no surprises, which was appreciated, as we were working with young students who, in several cases, had never left their country before.
2. Can you describe your students’ day-to-day experience during your programme?
Our programme contained a multitude of activities and events through which we came to know the history and culture of Valencia. Each day we invested a couple of hours in getting to know better the place we were going to inhabit for the next four weeks. After the activities, we gave the students free time to explore on their own whatever they wished. I’m pleased to report that very proactively, the students themselves communicated to us teachers places they had discovered for entertainment, visiting, or dining.
3. From your perspective as supervisor, how has your students’ Spanish level evolved during these weeks? Have you noticed significant changes?
The fact of living in a Spanish-speaking country for a period forces the student to communicate in Spanish necessarily, something I consider essential for progress in language learning, especially in listening comprehension and oral expression. In those students who wanted to step out of their comfort zone, I’ve observed significant progress, but I understand at the same time that one month is perhaps too little practice time. When one is barely getting accustomed to the language, they already have to leave. I will encourage WSU students to continue their studies in Spanish-speaking countries for periods of at least 6 months. Language learning requires time, patience, and above all, consistency.
4. Of all the cultural activities you’ve undertaken with us, which would you highlight as the most enriching for the group and why?
It would be difficult to choose just one, as all have contributed, in one way or another, to giving us an idea of Valencian history and culture. From the paella cooking course, the Cathedral visit, the horchata or orange routes, the Albufera visit, or the various museums, of which I’d like to highlight the Fallas Museum, they have all been vital parts of our experience.
5. Has there been any moment or situation that has been particularly surprising or revealing for your students?
I think it hasn’t been one specific event that has surprised them. It’s rather the collection of experiences so different from what they experience daily in the United States that has fascinated them. From our very particular and unique traditions, to the bustling street life we lead in our daily routine. I think they realised that we work to live and don’t live to work. It’s a paradigm shift that could open the eyes of more than a few back there.
6. What advantages do you see in this type of immersion programme compared to traditional Spanish learning in the United States?
There’s no classroom lesson, however good it may be, that can offer the experience of having to handle all types of situations communicating exclusively in the target language. One can believe themselves to be a great expert in the language’s grammar, even believe they understand it perfectly, but the final exam must be taken where that language is spoken.
7. How do you think this experience in Valencia will influence your students’ academic and personal future?
I hope this experience, through word of mouth, will trigger a wave of students who want to challenge themselves and test their language skills. As for the students who have already experienced it, I’d like this experience to serve as an incentive for them to try continuing their studies abroad or even working outside the United States for a period. A person with global perspective and intelligence is an absolutely necessary asset both personally and professionally.
8. What has been the students’ favourite part of the programme?
Experiencing Spanish culture firsthand, and not vicariously, I think is what they’ve enjoyed most. Many Americans don’t know beyond their borders, so being exposed to something so radically different, I think they’ve appreciated it.
9. What advice would you give to other university supervisors who are considering participating in a similar programme in Spain?
Don’t think twice and promote study abroad programmes within their universities. One cannot claim to know the language if they’ve never set foot in the place where that language is spoken. You have to get involved, in short: live the Spanish language. Oh, and the longer they can stay, the better for the students!
Thank you for your time, Joseba! Your words have helped us understand a bit better the importance of these international Spanish programmes. Let’s keep opening doors with Spanish!
