Colorado Mesa University hosted the third and final Cultural Cafe of the fall semester at Tomlinson Library on Nov. 14. Professor of Spanish Tom Acker and international student Anne Lapeira shared their experiences in Spain. The event, which was open to the public, took place in the library’s event space and served refreshments from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
The presentation, titled “Spain Revisited,” included the history and culture of the country as seen by Acker during his travels there. It outlined historical landmarks and popular travel spots around the country, with explanation of the places’ historical significance communicated through photos and text on a slideshow. It was his first Cultural Cafe event.
The second half of the event was presented by Anne Lapeira from Basque Country in Spain. She outlined Spanish language differences in Spain as well as aspects of the culture and some of the important landmarks of the country, including spots where the popular TV series “Game of Thrones” was filmed. She emphasized the importance of the cultural tradition of “the running of the bulls.”
One of the primary purposes for the event — in addition to educating the audience on the history and culture of the country — was to encourage students to study abroad.
“Studying abroad is the most life-changing thing a young person can do,” Acker said. “We in the Spanish program are working to provide opportunities for students […] We really believe it’s the best way for understanding the world, developing your language proficiency, and most importantly, developing cultural competency that will serve you in your professional life.”
Acker spent two years in Spain as a young adult to teach English as a second language, and he says the experience there set him up on the trajectory for the rest of his life. He has returned to Spain numerous times and has started working on developing an exchange program between CMU and universities in Spain to provide more opportunities abroad for both students and faculty.
He encourages students from all programs at the university to attend the Cultural Cafe events and look into study abroad opportunities both through the Spanish program and through the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) at CMU.
“It might light a spark that would inspire them to explore these countries, pay more attention when they hear about them in the news,” Acker said. “The people presenting at the Cultural Cafes have a personal connection to these places.”
In addition to study abroad opportunities, the Spanish program at CMU offers classes that can lead students to a minor or major. Classes are also offered that are intended to help propel students into having a competitive edge when looking for employment after graduation.
