Spanish

Maybe the Spanish language is part of your heritage, or maybe you just loved the courses you took in high school. Now you’re seeking mastery of the language, broad exposure to its rich literatures, and knowledge of Spanish-speaking cultures. At UMW, you’ll challenge yourself with compelling coursework, aided by our language labs and access to computer tutorials. In conjunction with UMW’s strong liberal arts program, you’ll prepare yourself for a variety of international careers.

Internships

For-credit internships may be available to junior and senior Spanish majors. UMW Spanish majors have found internships in Washington, D.C., and with local agencies including Rappahannock Adult Education Programs, the Virginia Department of Health, Hugh Mercer Elementary School, Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault, Bragg Hill Family Life Center, Moss Free Clinic, and Rappahannock Legal Services. You may also complete an internship, volunteer, or participate in service learning in Spain or Latin America.

My Spanish degree, plus working as a Peace Corps Volunteer in El Salvador, set me up later to pursue an MA in Latin American Studies, then join the US Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer. I’ve now served in Colombia, Mexico, and currently Brazil, where learning Portuguese was a snap after my Mary Washington Spanish background. But the broader liberal arts education I got at Mary Wash prepared me for plenty of other adventures and challenges: I’ve also worked in China, Iraq, and Uganda, but was not out of my depths. Mary Washington helped make me a flexible and well-rounded person, and it all began in the Spanish program.

Brian Straight. B.A. Spanish ’99