Since 2019, the CSU Todos Santos Center in Baja California Sur, Mexico, has hosted an innovative Spanish and culture immersion program.
Available to CSU staff, faculty, friends, family and the public, the Spanish and Culture Immersion has seen more than 150 participants from around the globe — from Fort Collins to Canada — all in the interest of fostering a deep connection between language and culture.
With two cohorts available this spring — one beginning virtually on Feb. 13, and the other kicking off March 19 — lifelong learners have a unique opportunity to experience a rich culture while fine-tuning their Spanish skills.
“The program promises a transformative experience where participants not only enhance their Spanish language skills but also gain a profound appreciation for the cultural heritage of the Rancheros in the Baja Region,” program instructor Olaf Morales said. “It is intentionally crafted to be inclusive, welcoming participants with varying levels of language proficiency.”
“Participants with varying backgrounds and experiences converge to create a dynamic and multicultural learning environment. This diversity enriches the cultural exchange within the group, providing multiple perspectives and fostering a sense of community.”
About the program
What makes the Todos Santos immersion unique is just that — the opportunity to experience a new way of life a mere three-hour plane ride away.
As the lead instructor, Morales guides participants through six sessions of online learning via Zoom over a three-week period. Then, after the foundation is set, the participants jet off for a 12-night stay at Todos Santos, located just one hour north of Cabo San Lucas along the coast of Baja California Sur.
Once there, participants continue their language training while also engaging in hands-on experiences, including visits to a local ranch, hiking excursions, and interactions with local Ranchero families and community members.
Morales said that while there are no specific prerequisites required, it does help if participants have taken an introductory Spanish course or have some Spanish skills.
“Through collaborative activities, group discussions and shared experiences, participants learn not only from the instructors but also from each other,” Morales said. “The immersive nature of the experience allows participants to absorb the nuances of everyday communication within the context of the Ranchero community, providing them with an authentic and meaningful language-learning environment.”
Created due to community feedback
Kim Kita, director of CSU Todos Santos, said that the program was started — in collaboration with the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures — after feedback from CSU community members indicated there was a desire for a short-term, non-credit immersion program.
“Combining virtual learning with rich experiential opportunities allows our lifelong learners to engage in ways that fit within their work schedules,” Kita said. “Many faculty and staff are also able to apply for professional development funds through their unit to make this opportunity possible. There is a growing community of Todos Santos Spanish Immersion ‘alumni’ on campus, who continue to stay in touch with Olaf and with each other.”
Still focused on providing an opportunity to the CSU community, the program has also expanded to the public at large.
The program costs $2,300 and includes instruction costs, accommodations for 12 nights, and just about everything aside from flights, airport transportation and some meals.
Interested participants can contact Olaf Morales at olaf.morales_barrales@colostate.edu, or by visiting https://international.colostate.edu/spanish-and-culture-immersion/.
