Gabriel Gonzalez
Student Life Editor
Salamanca, known as the “Golden City” of Spain, is offering a summer study abroad program to all ESU students in partnership with the University of Salamanca. The Office of International Programs is making arrangements to send students across the Atlantic Ocean to the Iberian Peninsula, where they will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a different culture while advancing their education.
The University of Salamanca, established in 1134 and granted a royal charter in 1218, stands as one of Spain’s oldest academic institutions. The city itself boasts ancient charm with its orange-tiled roofs, winding alleyways, and Romanesque architecture, reflecting its rich cultural and historical heritage. Conveniently located, Madrid is just a two-hour train ride away, and due to the city’s compact layout, it is easily navigable on foot.
“You only live once. That saying holds true,” remarks Dr. Annie Mendoza, a professor of modern languages, reflecting on her transformative experiences studying abroad in Madrid and Brazil. Encouraging students to seize the opportunity, she emphasizes the profound impact it can have on one’s life.
ESU students can explore available summer semester courses on the university’s website. These courses vary in duration from two to six weeks, with credit allocation to be determined through discussions with faculty members like Dr. Annie Mendoza or Jeffery Ruth, the department chair of modern languages, philosophy, and religion. Subsequently, Steve Ives, the director of the Office of International Programs, will facilitate the transfer of credits upon completion.
While Spanish majors stand to benefit significantly, studying abroad can also contribute six to nine credits towards a Spanish minor, allowing for accelerated credit accumulation. Moreover, the cost of education in Spain is notably lower, with universities following a pay-per-credit system, offering affordable tuition fees compared to the United States. Detailed pricing information for each course is available on the University of Salamanca’s website.
For instance, the average cost per credit at the University of Salamanca is 336 U.S. dollars, resulting in a total of 2016 dollars for a six-credit course. In contrast, a similar course at ESU would amount to around 2500 dollars, highlighting the substantial cost difference.
Ives also highlights the necessity of factoring in airfare costs, as swimming across the Atlantic is not a viable option. The Office of International Programs assists students in finding reasonably priced plane tickets, with an average cost of approximately 1000 dollars.
Regarding accommodations, the University of Salamanca offers various housing options, including dormitories and homestays. Opting for a homestay experience is recommended as it allows students to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and lifestyle.
Special dietary requirements will be accommodated throughout the program to ensure all students are catered to accordingly.
Getting involved in the program is a straightforward process. Interested students can consult professors such as Mendoza or Ruth, or visit the Office of International Programs for detailed information. If the program still holds appeal, Ives provides essential support, including traveler’s insurance, logistical assistance, flight coordination, guidance on accommodation choices, and credit allocation discussions with faculty members.
Ives emphasizes the opportunity to adopt a global perspective and become a “global citizen,” encouraging students to broaden their horizons beyond the conventional U.S. outlook.