Course Work Samples

Culture and Literature Competency

SPAN 3080 (Argentina)- This Hispanic World: Latin America

A course taught entirely in Spanish, my classmates and myself were able to explore the diverse nations and regions that make up Latin America, examining the impact of indigenous civilizations, colonialism, and the struggle for independence. The course navigates through the complexities of post-colonial identity, addressing themes such as mestizaje, cultural syncretism, and the role of literature in shaping national consciousness in Latin America. Additionally, contemporary issues like economic challenges, political movements, and cultural expressions were analyzed, providing students with an understanding of the dynamic and multifaceted Hispanic world. Through this exploration, we were able to gain insights into the unique perspectives that define Latin America's cultural heritage. I have included my final essay regarding Ronald Reagan and the impact of his Presidency in Latin and South America!

SPAN 3110 (Argentina)- Survey of Spanish-American Literature

Another course taught entirely in Spanish in which we learned about different types of poetry, and drama, exploring the works of iconic authors that have shaped the region's literary canon. From the colonial era to the present day, the course was incorporated into themes such as identity, post-colonialism, and social issues. Notable movements, such as the occurrences of different happenings within the political and economical state of Argentina, are scrutinized for their impact on global literature. Through critical analysis and discussions, we gained a new world understanding of the diverse cultural and historical contexts that have influenced Spanish-American literary masterpieces. I have included an essay from class that I wrote regarding a novel and how it related to my time abroad!

Linguistic Proficiency

SPAN 4160 Spanish for International Business II

This class is an advanced-level course designed to further develop students' proficiency in Spanish language and culture in business. Building upon the foundations laid in the previous Spanish for International Business course, this class focuses on expanding vocabulary, refining grammar skills, and enhancing communication abilities in various contexts. Through interactive activities, discussions, and projects, I was able to deepen my understanding of Spanish-speaking cultures, traditions, and societal norms, all pertaining to business. Emphasis is placed on practical language usage, enabling us to engage in conversations, express opinions, and comprehend more complex texts. By the end of the course, students are equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate real-life situations in Spanish-speaking environments. I have included a research essay that I wrote on the National Football League from this class!

SPAN 2020 Intermediate Spanish

Taking this intermediate Spanish grammar class was transformative for my presentation skills. Initially, I was hesitant to speak in front of an audience, but the class's emphasis on active participation pushed me out of my comfort zone. We often had to present verb conjugations and explain grammar rules to our peers, which helped to create a supportive environment that encouraged experimentation with language and public speaking. As I grew more confident in my Spanish, I found my general presentation skills improving. I learned to organize my thoughts more coherently and engage with my audience more effectively. I have included a presentation that I presented to the class!

Business Competency

MKT 3020 Consumer Behavior

In this class, our professor helped us explore psychological, social, and cultural factors shaping buyer behavior, understanding how perceptions, attitudes, and motivations impact product choices. The course was prominent with market research methodologies, analyzing data to anticipate and respond to consumer needs. Themes such as brand loyalty, cultural influences, and the role of digital media are explored, providing insights into contemporary marketing strategies. Through case studies and real-world applications, we were able to gain practical knowledge to create effective marketing campaigns that resonate with diverse consumer segments, making informed decisions in the ever-evolving landscape of consumer behavior in our rapid moving world. I have included my final project in which I chose a product and provided insights for how the company could market their product in the most efficient ways possible.

ECON 3020 Money and Banking

In ECON 3020, I learned about how the world's financial methods and banks control the commerce fields and how each country manages their finances. In this journal assignment, I analyzed an article in which different innovations were applied to monetary policy over time. I covered which different policies ended up enhancing different countries economic policies based on the control flow of their banks and marketshare.