With the summer faculty-led study abroad program deadline slowly approaching (Dec. 1), I thought that it would be appropriate to highlight one of the most popular programs offered, Language, Culture and Engineering in Santander, Spain. However, if Spain is too far from home for you, there is also its twin program in Mexico, Language and Culture in Mexico City.
During the six-week or 12-week program in Santander, students participate in an intensive immersion aimed to improve knowledge of the Spanish language, ability to speak correctly and effectively outside the classroom, and to effectively integrate into the local Spanish culture.
While some may want to take advantage of the local airport to travel during the four-day weekend, students should be aware of the many diverse activities that Santander has to offer! Below is a personal list of top five things to do while in Santander along with personal accounts by program alumni. Enjoy!
1. Attend a Racing de Santander soccer match
“It may not be Madrid or Barcelona, but rest assured that the people of Santander love and support their soccer team to no end. Experiencing a Racing game is a must-do! It’s awesome to get to feel the intense energy of the stadium and interact with local fans. You won’t regret it!” – Senior Laura Hein, Communication Sciences and Disorders
2. Take a break by Faro de Cabo Mayor
“I waited until my last day in Santander to visit Faro de Cabo Mayor, and it was immediately my favorite place in the whole city. The long walk is made worthwhile when you find a grassy spot on the cliff’s edge and listen to the waves crash along the coast.” – Junior Kassidy Knight, Electrical Engineering
3. Explore the countless tapa restaurants
“The best thing about tapa hopping was trying to find the best tortilla in Santander. Turns out, I thought the best one was actually from the cafeteria at the Universidad de Cantabria!” – Senior Whitney Barlow, Communication Sciences and Disorders
4. Give your try at surfing/sailing
“Going sailing in Santander was quite the experience. In small groups, we were able to navigate the boats ourselves with the help of an expert. It took a bit of learning, but soon we got the hang of adjusting the sail of our seafaring craft and following the wind. A perfect way to spend the day after classes!” – Junior Zeyi Lin, Plan II Honors/Electrical Engineering
5. Enjoy the the numerous beautiful beaches
“Everywhere you looked, people were smiling or playing sports! There’s something just so different about sitting on a beach in a foreign place and imagining what it would be like to grow up surrounded by so much beauty and with people who love life the way the Spanish do.” – Senior Alee Calloway, Health Promotion
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