Hispanic Studies (minor)
There are countless reasons to learn a second language. Learning a new language enhances everything we do by providing a new perspective on the world and challenging us to think critically about the way we describe our own experiences. Speaking more than one language allows us to build new connections, opens new doors professionally and personally, and helps us better understand cultures that may be vastly different from our own.
In addition to teaching students how to read, speak, and understand spoken and written Spanish, the Hispanic Studies minor immerses students in the histories and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. Since Spanish is the official language of 21 countries around the world and the second most spoken native language globally, gaining knowledge of the language and the people who speak it will add a valuable skill to your resume and help you leave college a more informed and aware global citizen.
What You'll Study
The Lees-McRae Hispanic Studies program introduces students to both the Spanish language and the places, people, and cultures that make up the Spanish-speaking world. You will learn how to read, write, understand, and speak Spanish. In addition to the required Spanish language classes and internship, you can round out your minor with courses like Spanish for the Professions, Spanish and Latin American Film, and Spanish for Social Justice.
Beyond the Classroom
Internships and research projects can be done at home and abroad. Study abroad opportunities are always in the works for students interested in taking that next step and there are many opportunities provided through Lees-McRae, other universities, and third-party providers. Your Hispanic Studies professor can also put you into contact with international universities that are able to transfer credits back to Lees-McRae.
After Graduation
Speaking a second language is an asset in any potential profession. The Hispanic Studies minor pairs well with any major to increase your employability and qualify you for new opportunities. For example, knowing Spanish as a Wildlife Biology major can help you work and research in countries throughout the Americas. In the education field, bilingual teachers tend to have higher average salaries than teachers who only speak English.
In addition to the tangible benefits of the ability to operate in a second language, the critical thinking and analytical skills obtained by studying a new language are applicable to the problem-solving skills employers are looking for in new hires.