Every Friday, the Shawnee State University Spanish Club opens its doors to students eager to enhance their linguistic skills and connect with fellow language enthusiasts. Led by President Scarlett Caudill and Vice President Alonso Salinas, the club provides a fun and welcoming environment where participants can practice Spanish while building friendships.
“We meet once a week, every Friday,” Salinas said. “It’s a great way for people to engage with the language in a relaxed and friendly setting.”
The Spanish Club, though small in numbers, offers engaging activities to all attendees. According to Salinas, the meetings typically include a variety of activities depending on the week.
“We often play games in Spanish or just talk about our day and what’s going on in our lives,” he explained. “It’s very informal and flexible, which makes it more enjoyable.”
The size of the group fluctuates, but it usually consists of around five people. Meetings are designed to last an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the day’s agenda. This casual, welcoming atmosphere helps ensure that no matter the number of participants, everyone feels comfortable contributing and practicing their Spanish skills.
One of the key aspects of the Spanish Club is its accessibility to students of all language levels. Whether you’re a beginner just starting to learn the basics or an advanced speaker looking to refine your conversation skills, the club is an inclusive space for everyone.
“We’re beginner-friendly,” Salinas said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re at with your Spanish. We’re here to learn together.”
In addition to language practice, the club provides an opportunity for students to form meaningful connections with peers who share a common interest in the Spanish language and culture. Salinas highlights the social benefits of joining the club, noting that members often bond over their shared experiences and interests, fostering a sense of community on campus.
The Spanish Club also serves as a gateway for students to engage with broader cultural experiences. In addition to the weekly meetings, the club keeps students informed about cultural events, guest speakers and activities related to Spanish-speaking countries, giving them a richer understanding of the language and its global significance.
For students who want to get involved or learn more about the club, Salinas suggested following the club’s Instagram page, @spanishclubssu. “That’s the best way to stay updated on what we’re doing,” he noted. The club uses its social media account to share information about upcoming events, meeting reminders and more. It’s also a great way for prospective members to get a feel for the club before attending.
In terms of the benefits of joining the Spanish Club, Salinas emphasized how the experience goes beyond just learning a language.
“It’s not just about improving your Spanish,” he said. “You’re also connecting with other students, forming friendships and having fun. Plus, it’s a great way to keep practicing and staying motivated if you’re taking Spanish classes at the university.”
For students looking to supplement their academic studies or simply enjoy learning in a more laid-back setting, Shawnee State University’s Spanish Club offers the perfect opportunity. Whether through engaging games or casual conversations, the club creates a space where students can develop their language skills while building strong social ties on campus.
If you’re interested in joining a community of students passionate about Spanish, check out @spanishclubssu on Instagram for more information.
