January Study Abroad in Spanish
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Program Overview
Embark on a Language Adventure! ๐
Welcome to our January Study Abroad in Spanish program, set in the picturesque city of Alicante, Spain. This immersive experience is designed for students eager to deepen their Spanish language skills, understand the local culture, and explore the historical beauty of Spain’s Mediterranean coast.
Program Highlights:
- Intensive Language Learning: Fast-track your Spanish proficiency through tailored courses that cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Spain like a local with cultural workshops, city tours, and homestays with Spanish families.
- Stunning Location: Study in Alicante, a city renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant street markets, and rich cultural heritage.
Start your year with an unforgettable adventure in Alicante, where language learning goes hand in hand with cultural discovery. Join us for a January you’ll always remember, where every day is a step closer to fluency in Spanish!
Program Details
Program Availability
- January Term: January 7 - February 3, 2024
Requirements
- GPA: 2.75 overall
- * Some courses may have additional prerequisites
Inclusions
- Courses at Universidad de Alicante
- 6 credits
- Accommodation in residence halls or homestays
- All meals included
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Local speaking partners
- Spanish courses: available in all levels
Fees
- Starting at: $5,200
Life Abroad
Discover more!
Historical Richness
Alicante is steeped in a diverse history, with its roots stretching back to the Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. This rich past is vividly reflected in its ancient fortifications, such as the Castillo de Santa Bรกrbara, and in the narrow streets of the old town, Barrio de la Santa Cruz, offering a living history lesson at every corner.
Architectural Diversity
Alicante showcases a fascinating architectural landscape, from the medieval Castillo de Santa Bรกrbara perched atop Mount Benacantil, offering breathtaking views, to the modernist Casa Carbonell along the Explanada de Espaรฑa. The city’s architecture tells the story of its past and present, blending Gothic, Baroque, and contemporary styles.
Artistic Expression
The artistic scene in Alicante is both historic and vibrant, with museums like the Museo de Arte Contemporรกneo de Alicante (MACA) presenting works by Spanish artists alongside local talents. The city’s streets and squares come alive with public art, festivals, and exhibitions, reflecting a deep-rooted appreciation for creative expression.
Culinary Delights
Alicante’s gastronomy is a testament to its Mediterranean setting, offering a palette of flavors from the sea and the land. Signature dishes such as arroz alicantino (paella) and tapas like esgarrat embody the region’s culinary traditions, providing a delicious avenue for cultural exploration.
Language Immersion
In Alicante, Spanish flows seamlessly from the bustling markets to the tranquil beaches, offering a vibrant setting for immersion in both Castilian Spanish and the regional Valencian dialect. Through language exchanges and daily interactions, students can explore the linguistic richness of Alicante, enhancing their proficiency and cultural understanding.
Living in Alicante
Living in Alicante means experiencing the warmth of its people, the leisurely pace of life, and the city’s open, welcoming nature. From participating in traditional festivals like the Bonfires of Saint John to enjoying the leisure and sports activities by the sea, life in Alicante is a blend of cultural immersion, educational growth, and unforgettable adventures.
Your semester in Alicante offers much more than just academic pursuits; it’s an invitation to dive deep into the vibrant heart of Spanish culture. Included in your program are a myriad of cultural activities and outings, meticulously selected by our Resident Director to enrich your experience. Here’s a glimpse of the cultural journey that awaits you in Alicante:
Welcome to Mediterranean Delights: Begin your adventure with a warm welcome dinner, where you’ll taste local specialties like arroz alicantino and indulge in authentic Spanish tapas, fostering connections with fellow students and our local team.
Cultural Visits: Immerse yourself in Alicante’s rich history and art through guided tours to the Castillo de Santa Bรกrbara, the Museo de Bellas Artes, the Museo de Arte Contemporรกneo, and the Museo Arqueolรณgico Provincial de Alicante.
Cultural Walks/Itineraries: Discover Alicante’s history, picturesque spots, Modernist architecture, and Civil War air-raid shelters through themed walks like “Historia de Alicante,” “Rincones con encanto de Alicante,” “El Modernismo en la ciudad de Alicante,” and “Refugios antiaรฉreos de la Guerra Civil en Alicante.”
Gastronomic Workshops: Delve into the culinary arts with workshops on alicantino rice dishes and tapas, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional flavors of the region.
Dance Workshops: Move to the rhythm with Latin dance, flamenco, and zumba workshops, embracing the lively local culture and staying active.
Cultural Events: Celebrate Thanksgiving Alicante-style, and engage with the local community through Spanish cinema screenings, bowling nights, and more.
Spanish Language Cinema and Bowling with Language Exchange: Enhance your Spanish skills and make new friends through movie nights and bowling with language exchange partners.
Gymkhana – Outdoor Escape Room in Alicante: Participate in a thrilling gymkhana based on the ancient history of Alicante, combining fun, teamwork, and learning.
Multi-Activity Nautical Day: Experience the Mediterranean Sea with a day of water sports, offering a blend of excitement and relaxation.
Please note that while most activities are included in your program’s cost, some may require a small additional fee. Availability of activities can vary depending on the program schedule. This comprehensive suite of cultural engagements is designed to ensure you live Alicante not just as a student, but as a true part of its vibrant community.
Meet The Alicante Team!
The SSA Alicante Team with their students!
Both living arrangements are designed to enrich your study abroad experience in Alicante, offering distinct pathways to immerse yourself in the local culture, language, and community. Whether you choose the intimate setting of a homestay or the more independent lifestyle of a student residencia, you’ll have the support and guidance of Spanish Studies Abroad staff to make the most of your time in Spain.
*Residenciaย spaces are limited and students with special health and dietary needs have first priority
Student Residences
Student residencias* offer a more independent living situation while still providing a sense of community with fellow students. Residencia spaces are limited, with priority given to students who have special health and dietary needs. Living in a residencia allows you to enjoy a blend of independence and support, with amenities that cater to a student’s lifestyle. While residencias provide a unique opportunity to meet students from diverse backgrounds, they also promote a learning environment conducive to academic success. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer a bit more autonomy but still wish to engage closely with the student community in Alicante.
Homestays
In Alicante, opting for a homestay offers an unparalleled immersion into Spanish life and culture. This choice means you’ll live with a local host family, providing full room and board, including laundry and room cleaning services. Homestays are ideal for students eager to practice Spanish daily in an authentic setting, enhancing their language skills and cultural understanding. Our homestays are carefully selected to ensure a welcoming and conducive atmosphere for learning.ย
The SSA team maintains high standards by discussing norms and policies with hosts and regularly inspecting homes to guarantee your comfort. Special dietary or housing accommodations are available, though they may come with an additional fee. Most host families have been partnering with us for years, receiving high praise from former students for their hospitality. Remember, bringing a small gift for your host family is a thoughtful gesture to show appreciation for their welcome.
Academics
Course Selection
The available courses for students vary by program and are distributed between the SSA center and local universities. Please see the selection below, and contact us for the most current course information:
SSA Language & Living the Culture Courses
Subject
Course
Courses
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 100UAJ – BEGINNING SPANISH I
Contact Hours: 60
Credits: 4
Living the Culture
LTC 300UAJ-A – CULTURE OF SPANISH CUISINE
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 375UAJ – ADVANCED CONVERSATION I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 360UAJ – SPANISH FOR BUSINESS I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 275UAJ – INTERMEDIATE CONVERSATION I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 175UAJ – BEGINNING CONVERSATION I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 452UAJ – SPANISH LANGUAGE SUPERIOR LEVEL II
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 451UAJ – SPANISH LANGUAGE SUPERIOR LEVEL I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 405UAJ – SPECIAL TOPICS IN ADVANCED LANGUAGE STUDY II
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 403UAJ – SPECIAL TOPICS IN ADVANCED LANGUAGE STUDY I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 313UAJ – HIGH ADVANCED SPANISH II
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 311UAJ – HIGH ADVANCED SPANISH I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 310UAJ – ADVANCED SPANISH III
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 309UAJ – ADVANCED SPANISH II
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 300UAJ – ADVANCED SPANISH I
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 204UAJ – INTERMEDIATE SPANISH II
Language/History/Cultural Studies
SPAN 203UAJ – INTERMEDIATE SPANISH I
Academic Institutions
The University of Alicante is a prestigious higher education and research institution located in Alicante, Spain. Known for its innovative and diverse academic programs, the university caters to over 30,000 students with a faculty of highly qualified professors and researchers.
Established in 1979, the University of Alicante has developed a reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, health, business, and engineering.
The university’s campus is renowned for its modern architecture and green spaces, providing an ideal environment for learning and research. It has also been recognized for its contributions to scientific research, particularly in areas such as technology, health sciences, and social sciences.
The University of Alicante is committed to internationalization, with numerous partnerships with universities and research institutions around the world. This global outlook enhances the educational experience for its students, preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
Why This Program?
The January Study Abroad Program in Spanish in Alicante, Spain, offers an intensive immersion into the Spanish language and culture during a compact, month-long course. This program is ideal for students seeking to rapidly improve their Spanish skills and understanding of Spanish culture in a short timeframe, set against the backdrop of Alicante’s stunning Mediterranean scenery.
๐ Intensive Language Acquisition:
- Accelerated Learning: Focus on rapidly improving Spanish language proficiency through immersive classes and daily practice.
- Cultural Integration: Enhance language skills with cultural workshops, local excursions, and activities that bring the Spanish language to life.
๐ Cultural Immersion:
- Deep Dive into Spanish Culture: Experience the rich traditions, history, and lifestyle of Alicante and Spain through guided tours and cultural events.
- Local Engagement: Connect with the community and practice Spanish in real-world settings, from markets to festivals.
๐ผ Personal Growth:
- Confidence Building: Develop confidence in your Spanish communication skills in academic, social, and professional contexts.
- Adaptability Skills: Cultivate adaptability and resilience by navigating a new culture and language landscape.
โ๏ธ Exploration and Discovery:
- Travel Opportunities: Alicante's prime location offers chances to explore nearby Spanish cities and landmarks, enhancing your cultural and linguistic journey.
- Concentrated Experience: Make the most of a short-term program that packs extensive learning and cultural experiences into just a few weeks.
Dates & Fees
Term
Deadline
Start Date
End Date
Fee
Application
Important Links
Summary
Requirements
- GPA: 2.75 overall
- * Some courses may have additional prerequisites
Program Summary
- January Term: January 7 - February 3, 2024
- Courses at Universidad de Alicante
- 6 credits
- Accommodation in residence halls or homestays
- All meals included
- Frequent excursions and travel opportunities
- Small class sizes for personalized attention
- Local speaking partners
- Spanish courses: available in all levels
What does the fee include?
- Tuition fees
- Room & board
- Study tours
- Health insurance
- On-site support
- Health & Safety
- Transcripts
- Excursions
- Local activities
- Starting at: $5,200