CDH Welcomes Spanish Students: A Cultural Exchange and Language Immersion Experience
September 27, 2023
CDH hosted a group of international visitors from September 15-25. There were 11 students and two adult chaperones from Montemolín, a Christian Brothers School in Zaragoza, Spain. Their visit was a part of a cultural exchange program aimed at immersing them in American culture and enhancing their English language skills. This was their second year coming here for a visit and Montemolín hosted a group of CDH students for the first time just this past summer.
The chaperones accompanying the students were Igor Rendón, an English teacher at Montemolín, and Paco Pérez, a Physical Education teacher at the same school. While Rendón had visited the United States the previous year, this was Pérez' first experience in the country. During their stay, the group had the opportunity to explore various places in the metropolitan area, including Target Field for a Twins game. They even made a trip to Duluth. The visit coincided with CDH’s Homecoming week, and they actively participated in the festivities, attending numerous sporting events, the Pep Fest and the Homecoming dance.
Upon their arrival, the Spanish visitors were welcomed by CDH faculty and staff. Many of the faculty members took the opportunity to highlight the school's unique features that make it stand out, including the presence of the Sisters and Brothers, an engaging science department, an impressive JROTC program, a dedicated world language department eager to learn from other cultures, and a state-of-the-art STEM design lab.
Among the faculty who engaged with the group were Anne Marie Froehle, a Science Teacher, and COL Joe Scrocca, a JROTC Instructor.
Ms. Froehle did a Homeostasis lab with the students. They used the Vernier sensors and LabQuests for temperature control, and determined how to keep their "Homer Simpson" at the 37*C, while he was losing water and nutrients. “It was fantastic,” said Froehle, “and they really got into the process! They explained they don't really do labs like this in their science classrooms. I ended by showing them some of the models and dissections the students have already done this year!”
COL Scrocca talked to them about the purpose of JROTC being to build strong, confident servant leaders of character that will meaningfully contribute to society as good citizens. He said the students had a lot of questions about the JROTC program and the Diamond Promotion Ceremony and he explained that JROTC was not about recruiting for the Army, but that the program uses the military model to build leaders, teach the importance of responsibility and citizenship, and build character in young people.
Igor Rendón, one of the chaperones, and Paula Onate, one of the Spanish students, shared some of their experiences from the trip.
When asked about their favorite part of the trip, Paula shared her enthusiasm for the Pep Fest, an event unfamiliar to them in Spain. She particularly enjoyed the music of Taylor Swift and the feeling of camaraderie with American students. Igor, on the other hand, expressed his appreciation for the personal connections forged with teachers at CDH, emphasizing the friendships that had developed over their two visits.
Beyond CDH, the Spanish students and their chaperones were able to experience the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota. Paula appreciated the grandeur of the capital. Igor, recalling a Twins baseball game, was impressed by the atmosphere at American sporting events, a contrast to the more serious approach to sports in Spain.
Adapting to American eating habits posed a challenge, with Paula highlighting the differences in meal timings and food choices. However, they acknowledged their gradual adjustment to these changes.
When asked about improving their English language skills, Paula noted that she had learned various language nuances and expressions during her stay. Igor emphasized that the continuous use of English in everyday conversations had boosted the students' confidence and proficiency.
Paula expressed her happiness and gratitude for the warm welcome and sense of belonging she experienced during her visit. Igor echoed her sentiments, expressing his admiration for the positive aspects of American culture, including the strong sense of community and service.
The visit of the students and chaperones from Montemolín was a mutually enriching experience. It allowed for cultural exchange, the enhancement of language skills, and the creation of lasting friendships.
