SiS Newsletter - SIS S. A.: Natalie Roberts

Natalie Roberts

As an SiS ambassador I would promote Spain in part by sharing my personal experiences in Spain with my fellow peers. I will be able to offer a new and exciting outlook on the Spanish culture as I have recently returned from six weeks in Sevilla. I plan giving class presentations about aspects of Spain that I find most interesting. This may include but is not limited to Spanish dialects, the importance of Spanish history, common Spanish stereotypes, and las fiestas de Sevilla. By permission of the instructor, these presentations would be accompanied by a powerpoint and highlight contemporary Spain that promotes the country as one that is rich in its culture, history, and traditions.

Over the course of two semesters I also plan to attend study abroad fairs at my university as well as “predeparture” meetings for students soon to study abroad in Spain. In both of these events I will be able to answer questions from a student’s perspective giving insight on what it is like to study in Spain. In order to fulfill my rated activities I would like to organize a dinner or small meal of typical Spanish food and drink as well as El Café Español in which I will be able interact with many students who already have an interest In the Spanish language. I could advertise the Cena activity through different clubs on campus and serve bocadillos or tortillas de patatas while promoting studying in Spain.

For most students traveling to another country can be intimidating, but most do not know the valuable assets of an international experience. I may create a brochure explaining all the benefits there are to studying Spain. I would include the programs offered in my university; information on transfer credit hours and financial aid, as well as all that Spain has to offer an undergrad. I could distribute the brochure to the study abroad office, the Spanish department, and the study abroad fairs.