Fifteen years ago, a vision took root at the University of Lethbridge — a vision to take Spanish language learning beyond the classroom walls and into the vibrant streets of Spanish-speaking communities. That vision became reality in 2010 when Dr. Luz Janeth Ospina from the Department of Modern Languages & Linguistics launched the university’s first Spanish Summer Immersion Program in Mexico City. Her goal was simple yet ambitious: to provide students with a deeper, more authentic connection to the Spanish language and culture.
Today, the program proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary, having grown from that inaugural journey into a transformative international experience based in Jaén, Spain. A picturesque city renowned for its olive groves and rich cultural heritage, Jaén has welcomed ULethbridge students since 2014, making it a second home to many. “Jaén feels a lot like Lethbridge — warm, welcoming, and the right size for students to feel connected,” says Dr. Ospina, who has led the program from its inception.
The program’s longevity and popularity stem from its deep roots in experiential learning. Students don’t just study Spanish; they live it. From ordering tapas in cafés to navigating local transit and attending university classes, participants are fully immersed in the language and daily life of Jaén. They visit historical landmarks, interact with locals, tour olive farms, and even participate in community festivals. The experience goes beyond linguistic fluency to nurture cultural awareness, adaptability, and self-confidence.
For many students, this is their first time travelling abroad, and the impact is profound. “Some arrive with their very first passport,” Dr. Ospina recalls. “And they return home changed.” One former student, inspired by the immersion program, went on to teach in Spain for four years through the Canadian Language and Culture Assistant Program. Stories like his are not uncommon — many alumni credit the immersion program with shaping their careers and global outlook.
The program’s evolution has been shaped by consistent student feedback, a strong curriculum aligned with diverse language levels, and partnerships with the University of Jaén and the ULethbridge’s International Centre. Despite recent challenges, Dr. Ospina continues to champion the importance of financial support through travel awards and fundraising efforts, ensuring the program remains accessible to all students.
Looking ahead, she envisions even more interdisciplinary opportunities, including professional internships, sustainability projects, and digital tools to enhance intercultural reflection. “In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, real-world human experiences like this are more important than ever,” she notes.
As the Spanish Summer Immersion Program marks its 15th year, it stands as a model of what international education can achieve — blending academic growth with personal discovery, and preparing students not just to speak another language, but to engage meaningfully with the world.