Upper School Spanish Students Immerse Themselves in Spanish Culture in Sevilla

Last month, 22 Upper School Spanish students traveled to Sevilla, Spain to participate in a linguistic and cultural exchange program with the Colegio Irlandesas de Bami. The students stayed with host families, visited several known landmarks and embraced Spanish culture in an authentic and immersive way. 

The students shared their experiences during Morning Ex last week. After an introduction from Upper School Spanish teacher Antonio Amo and a video filled with photos, students took turns addressing various aspects of the trip, including their observations about Spanish culture, sights they saw on their day trips to Granada and Córdoba and knowledge they gained about Spanish language, dance and food. 

Students loved how kind and welcoming the people were and connected with their host families through common interests and shared meals. They discussed the necessary adjustment to the meal schedule (because dinner starts at 10 p.m. in Spain!) and the Andalusian accent. They also enjoyed the orange tree-lined streets that gave the city a pleasant aroma and that most of the social life takes place outside at cafes and in plazas. 

Two students showed their flamenco dancing skills, incorporating castañuelas (castanets) and Spanish music, while others discussed a cooking class where they made paella. Others talked about landmarks they saw, including a bullfighting ring, palaces and places of cultural significance throughout the region.

Overall, the students had a wonderful experience, and they are excited to welcome students from Spain to Parker later in May, when they will experience American culture through this exchange program. Travel opportunities like this allow students to explore the world, experience different cultures and apply their learning to real-world situations. Parker looks forward to hosting students from the Colegio Irlandesas de Bami in the spring!

Click here for photos of this Morning Ex.