Embracing Language and Culture at Drake University: The Spanish Conversation Hours
In the realm of higher education, learning often revolves around test scores and homework assignments. However, at Drake University, a refreshing alternative exists: the Spanish Conversation Hours, a program designed to foster informal dialogue and cultural exchange. Offered three times a week by the Department of World Languages and Culture, this initiative is reshaping how students and community members engage with the Spanish language.
A Unique Learning Environment
Inbal Mazar, an associate professor of Spanish, took the reins of the Spanish Conversation Hours in 2015, shortly after its inception. The program was established to provide a welcoming space for individuals to practice speaking and listening skills while immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Spanish-speaking cultures. “The goal is to have an informal space to chat and practice and learn about culture,” Mazar shared in an email interview.
The sessions are held twice on Thursdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with an additional morning session on Fridays from 10 to 11 a.m. All gatherings take place in Meredith Hall, Room 231, making it easily accessible for students and community members alike.
Bridging Academia and Community
Sally Haack, a professor of pharmacy practice, actively encourages her healthcare students to attend the conversation hours. She guides them during their pharmacy rotations at Primary Healthcare, a community health center in Des Moines that serves a significant Spanish-speaking population. Haack has attended the sessions for several years, not only to enhance her own fluency but also to prepare her students for real-world interactions.
“For better or for worse, there’s no homework,” Haack noted, emphasizing the relaxed nature of the program. “It’s super casual and just whatever topics you want to talk about, so I think that’s what keeps me coming back.” This non-threatening environment allows participants to engage freely, making language practice feel less like a chore and more like a social gathering.
Personal Connections Through Language
Geonella Ramirez, a sophomore at Drake pursuing a minor in Spanish, was encouraged by Mazar to attend the conversation hours. Growing up in a Spanish-speaking household, Ramirez sees the program as a vital link between her personal culture and her academic pursuits. “It’s always good to speak for an hour because obviously I’m not doing it here as I would at home,” she explained.
With 22% of Des Moines residents speaking a language other than English at home, the conversation hours serve as an essential resource for students like Ramirez. “This is a really nice opportunity,” she said, reflecting on how her cousin at the University of Kansas wishes for a similar environment.
The sessions are often intimate, with just two to three students participating, creating a cozy atmosphere for conversation. “There are two student conversation facilitators you can go with: Alan and Ian,” Ramirez mentioned. “Sometimes they will have games or questions planned, like ‘What are you doing this weekend?’ Usually, topics revolve around us students at the time.”
Facilitators: Guiding the Conversation
One of the student facilitators, Ian Subelman, is a junior international student from Chile. He describes his role as more of a practice partner than a teacher. “It’s not really teaching, but it’s more like practicing with them,” Subelman said. His approach focuses on creating a comfortable environment where students feel encouraged to express themselves.
Subelman was inspired to join the program by his girlfriend, who suggested he reach out to the professors involved. His native fluency in Spanish allows him to empathize with learners, understanding the patience and support they need. “I don’t rush them or anything,” he explained. “If there is a word they are looking for, I try to help them out.”
The Broader Impact of Language Learning
The benefits of participating in the Spanish Conversation Hours extend beyond mere language acquisition. According to the Drake World Languages and Culture website, learning another language and culture can significantly enhance one’s prospects in various fields, from healthcare to business. Haack emphasizes the importance of these skills, stating, “Whatever your major is, it’s so important to have other skills related to language and cultural understanding.”
The Spanish Conversation Hours at Drake University exemplify a model of language learning that prioritizes community, culture, and casual conversation. By fostering an environment where students can practice their skills without the pressure of grades or assignments, the program not only enriches their academic experience but also strengthens their connection to the diverse world around them.
