The Spanish major at Holy Cross affords students the opportunity to learn about the language, cultures, and literatures of the Spanish speaking world. The major offers courses at several levels. Language courses are oriented towards the achievement of oral and written proficiency. The study of the literatures of both Spain and Latin America is available to students who have sufficient background; these classes are conducted in the language and a seminar/discussion approach is commonly used. The advanced courses in the department allow students to perfect their language and analytical skills through literary exegesis and to gain a deeper understanding of the written expression of a foreign culture. Outside the classroom, students can participate in the social activities of the Spanish Club and are eligible to become part of the Spanish Honor Society (Sigma Delta Pi). The department also encourages all students with sufficient skills to participate in Holy Cross' Study Abroad programs in Spain (Palma de Mallorca and León), in Mexico (Puebla), and in Peru (Lima). Residence abroad enables students to achieve that fluency in the language which leads to a good understanding of the host culture and a deeper understanding of their own.
In an age when nations, to survive, must seek to understand each other, Americans on both a national and an individual level need to use new ways to communicate. The study of Spanish in particular will enable students to understand and have access to the various ethnic groups and traditions within the nation. Holy Cross graduates with skills in Spanish have found positions in fields such as banking, government, and medicine. Many have spent time working in Spain and Latin American countries after graduation. Available to Spanish majors is access to information about graduate programs at appropriate academic and professional schools, as well as more immediate opportunities after graduation. Students are strongly advised to complement the major program with related courses in such areas as economics, history, political science, philosophy, English literature, sociology, and the like, depending upon professional aims. Our advisory system encourages depth and breadth of humanistic experience in the major, while suggesting broad avenues for professional involvement after college.
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