What is experiential learning?
Experiential learning is an engaged learning process whereby students "learn by doing" and by reflecting on the experience. Experiential learning activities can include, but are not limited to, hands-on laboratory experiments, internships, practicums, field exercises, study abroad, undergraduate research and studio performances.
Study abroad
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese strongly encourages study abroad as a means of cultural and linguistic immersion and typically recommends the junior year. Please see the Office of Study Abroad for information about programs, scholarships, and health and safety abroad, and consult with the departmental study abroad advisor in order to plan coursework.
The University of Iowa's Department of Spanish and Portuguese directly sponsors two summer faculty-led programs:
Iowa Regents Summer Program
The Iowa Regents Summer Program in Valladolid, Spain, which includes five weeks of classes and one week of travel. Students should have completed at least four semesters of college-level Spanish (the equivalent of the General Education sequence) to participate in this program and earn 7 credits in Spanish. Classes include grammar and conversation, culture and literature. Students live with host families.
Cultures of Spain
Cultures of Spain is a four-week UI resident-credit summer course held in Madrid that offers participants an overview of the cultural landscape of Spain through an interdisciplinary approach to its art, history, and daily life. The course consists mainly of field trips within Madrid and its neighboring regions and cities.
Be an ambassador
The CLCL Student Ambassador Program is a dynamic initiative where volunteer students play a pivotal role in representing language and cultural programming on campus.
Conversation hours
The Department of Spanish and Portuguese hosts conversation clubs, offering dynamic and immersive environments for individuals to refine their language skills while fostering cultural understanding and connections. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, participants not only enhance their fluency and vocabulary but also gain confidence in expressing themselves in their target language. These clubs promote supportive communities that encourage learners to overcome barriers, enriching their personal and professional lives with a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives and global communication.
Spanish
Portuguese
University resources
Undergraduate research
Gain hands-on experience by participating in the research and creative discovery of faculty and staff.
Internships
Build on-the-job experience while connecting and networking with professionals in your field.
Study abroad
Enhance your degree, stand out to employers, shape your own perspective, and transform into a global citizen.
Community-engaged courses
Apply your academic skills and knowledge to help community partners solve real-world problems.