Spanish 323 has been a profoundly enriching course that has allowed me to explore the complexities and nuances of the Spanish speaking world while strengthening my cultural competence. This class has gone beyond simply studying language it has illuminated the values, traditions, and histories that shape various Hispanic cultures and has provided me with tools to engage more meaningfully with diverse communities. The insights I’ve gained have enriched my personal, academic, and professional experiences.

One of the most striking themes of the course has been the emphasis on different cultural attitudes toward time, work, and leisure. In Spain, for example, the concept of siesta even though its traditional form has waned remains symbolic of a culture that values rest and balance. We learned how the Spanish workday often includes extended lunch breaks, with evenings reserved for socializing and family time. This is mirrored in many Latin American cultures, where ir con la corriente (going with the flow) emphasizes flexibility and the prioritization of relationships over strict schedules. In contrast, American culture often glorifies a relentless work ethic, where productivity is valued above all else. These differences have encouraged me to reflect on my own habits, such as constantly rushing through tasks and overloading my schedule, and consider how adopting a more relationship focused approach could lead to a better balance in my life.

A particularly impactful topic was our exploration of traditional celebrations and their role in preserving cultural identity. For instance, we studied how festivals like Las Fallas in Valencia or Día de los Muertos in Mexico serve as powerful expressions of cultural heritage. Día de los Muertos, with its vibrant altars, calaveras (decorative skulls), and marigold flowers, exemplifies the deep respect for family and ancestors that is central to Mexican culture. It was fascinating to see how this tradition contrasts with the more solemn, quiet ways other cultures remember the deceased. These celebrations demonstrate how art, community, and history intersect to keep cultural values alive.

The role of traditional clothing was another compelling subject. In Spain, mantones de Manila (embroidered shawls) remain an iconic part of cultural festivities, while in Latin America, garments like polleras in Panama or huipiles in Guatemala reflect indigenous heritage and local artistry. Learning about these clothing traditions highlighted the intersection of fashion and identity, where every pattern, color, and fabric choice carries cultural significance. This has deepened my appreciation for how traditions can serve as both personal and collective expressions of identity, bridging the past with the present.

In addition to these cultural insights, the course challenged me to think critically about the role of migration in shaping identities. Many readings and discussions explored how immigration impacts both the individual and the broader community, emphasizing themes of resilience, adaptation, and belonging. This resonated with me personally, as I have seen these dynamics play out in my own life and in the experiences of people I have encountered this semester. For example, I recently spoke with a neighbor who immigrated from Peru and shared stories of how her family has balanced maintaining their cultural roots while navigating life in the United States. These conversations have made me more attuned to the diverse journeys of immigrants and the importance of cultural preservation in fostering a sense of belonging.

Spanish 323 has also made me more aware of how cultural practices in Hispanic communities compare with those in other cultures. For example, the emphasis on sobremesa—the tradition of lingering at the table after meals to engage in meaningful conversations—contrasts with the more task oriented approach to meals in the U.S., where eating is often rushed and seen as a means to an end. This idea of slowing down and prioritizing relationships has inspired me to rethink how I approach time with family and friends. Similarly, the prevalence of community focused holidays, like La Feria de Abril in Spain or Inti Raymi in Peru, reinforces the idea that collective joy and togetherness are integral to cultural identity.

The course has helped me bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real world application. Outside the classroom, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with members of the Hispanic community in various ways this semester, from casual interactions with coworkers to more in depth discussions with Spanish speaking friends and acquaintances. For instance, I recently helped a classmate from Colombia navigate campus resources, and we ended up discussing how the education systems in our countries differ. She shared how schooling in Colombia emphasizes communal values and national pride, which prompted me to reflect on how American education often prioritizes individualism. Moments like these remind me of the importance of cultural awareness in fostering connections and mutual understanding.

Another personal experience that stands out is a conversation I had with someone from Spain about their family’s celebration of Reyes Magos (Three Kings’ Day). They explained how this holiday, marked by parades, gifts, and family gatherings, often takes precedence over Christmas in Spanish culture. Hearing about this tradition gave me a new perspective on how holidays reflect cultural values, such as Spain’s focus on community and family closeness.

This course has also helped me think critically about cultural representation and biases in media. Comparing coverage of the same news story in Hispanic and American outlets revealed stark differences in tone, focus, and priorities. For example, we analyzed how economic issues in Latin America are often framed through a lens of hardship in U.S. media, whereas Hispanic outlets might highlight resilience and local solutions. This exercise reminded me of the importance of seeking diverse perspectives to gain a fuller understanding of global events.

Overall, Spanish 323 has been an invaluable course that has deepened my understanding of Hispanic cultures and how they relate to my own experiences and worldview. Whether studying traditional dances, exploring cultural attitudes toward time, or learning about migration’s impact on identity, I have gained insights that extend beyond the classroom. These lessons have enriched my interactions with Spanish speaking individuals, encouraging me to approach every conversation with empathy, curiosity, and a greater appreciation for the rich diversity of the Spanish speaking world. I look forward to continuing to apply what I’ve learned in both my personal and professional life, fostering connections that bridge cultures and build understanding.