Program Duration
Summer: Mid-May - Mid-July
Program Description
The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers an eight-week summer Spanish language program Oaxaca. Program participants take Spanish language classes Monday through Friday, participate in cultural workshops, and work in volunteer placements in the local community.
Oaxaca is located in southern Mexico where the two chains of the Sierra Madre mountains meet. With an elevation of 5,000 feet and a spring-like climate throughout the year, Oaxaca features Spanish colonial architecture from the 16th century as well as nearby ruins of important ancient civilizations. Mitla, an ancient ceremonial center with architectural and archeological treasures, and Monte Alban, a magnificent mountain city (the most powerful city in the southern part of Mesoamerica, built between 100 BC and 200 AD) are less than an hour drive from Oaxaca. Of particular note are Monte Alban’s mysterious sculptures that resemble dancing figures and carry on a long tradition of intriguing archeologists and tourists alike.
Today, Oaxaca, the capital city of the state of Oaxaca, serves as a major center of indigenous culture in Mexico. With approximately 18 different indigenous groups in the region, Oaxaca is the site of a spectacular age-old tradition - the largest native market in Mexico takes place every Saturday. Indigenous cultures have challenged and rejected dominant models of modernization but have integrated some aspects into their life in a very unique and complex way.
Oaxaca’s economy, based on small subsistence farms, has also contributed to its reputation for handmade crafts. Many farm families make beautiful pieces of pottery, embroidery, weaving, leatherwork, and other crafts to supplement their family incomes. Oaxaca is also known for its strong tradition in the arts; it is home to several internationally known painters and sculptors.
Academics
Mexican faculty and the UW-Madison Resident Director teach the courses offered on this program. Students earn a maximum of nine credits on this program; three to six credits for the Spanish language courses and two or three-credits for the directed study course taught by the UW-Madison Resident Director.
Spanish courses typically offered are:
Spanish 226: Intermediate Language Practice with Emphasis on Writing and Grammar
Spanish 311: Advanced Language Practice
Spanish 223: Introduction to Hispanic Cultures
Spanish 224: Introduction to Hispanic Literatures
Spanish 325: Advanced Conversation
Spanish 465: Literature and Film in Latin America
Spanish 468: Topics in Hispanic Culture
Classes are limited to a maximum of 10 students. Students will also participate in cultural workshops ranging from salsa dancing, cooking, weaving to pottery.
Housing
Students immerse themselves in the language and culture of Mexico by living with a Mexican family. Two daily meals are provided by the host family.
Excursions and Activities
The program’s four to five excursions included in the program cost give participants the opportunity to learn about many of the area’s ancient ruins, historic sites, and contemporary life with an experienced guide. Past excursions have included Monte Alban, Hierve el Agua, Mitla and Puebla.
The program works with local schools and organizations to place program participants in volunteer positions. Recently students have been placed in public schools, private schools, health clinics, city museums, Museum of Textiles, a traditional weaver's atelier, public library, teaching English, botanical gardens, women's center, working with Oaxacan street kids, sanitation center, and migration center.