Spanish House

VU’s Spanish House is a language immersion initiative to provide a space where residents pledge to speak in Spanish at all times, and to foster an understanding of Hispanic/Latinx cultures in our campus community. Spanish House residents often have lunch together, organize their own Spanish-focused events, and help student organizations such as LIVE or the Spanish Club with their activities and programming.

Application for 2024-2025
Deadline: February 6, 2024

• Is the Spanish House for me?

The Spanish House is a great opportunity to improve your spoken Spanish, get involved in extracurricular activities, grow leadership skills and make new friends. There is no better preparation for a study abroad semester. In terms of language practice, it is also its closest substitute if you cannot spend a semester in a Spanish-speaking country.

All students who have taken SPAN 204 (Intermediate Spanish II), or have attained that level through other means (to be determined by placement exam score and/or consultation with the Spanish faculty) are welcome to apply to become residents. You can find more details in the General Information document.

• Where is the Spanish House located?

Residents of the Spanish House live on the third floor of Guild-Memorial Hall and do some of their gatherings at the common area on that same floor. But the Spanish House is not confined to a specific space or building! The Language Resource Center (ASB 240), the Spanish House table at Founders or Loke Hall (when an event takes place there) are also part of the Spanish House.

• How much does it cost?

There is no additional cost in joining the Spanish House. Residents pay the academic year’s room rates for Guild-Memorial Hall, and they are required to have a meal plan.

• What are the expectations for residents?

Spanish House residents are expected to share at least two weekly meals, hold regular meetings and organize at least 3 activities per semester. There is considerable flexibility, as the events and activities will depend on the residents’ interests. With the support and guidance of the Spanish faculty, each cohort decides what activities they want to do. Meals and other meetings are planned at the beginning of the academic year taking into account all residents’ schedules and availability.

• How can I join the Spanish House?

Complete the application HERE and submit by February 6, 2024.

• Do I get to choose my roommate?

Although we encourage Spanish House residents to share rooms, we understand this is not always possible. So yes, if you have a preference, you can choose your roommate(s), whether they are Spanish House residents or not. You will have to provide that information in your application.

• Can I participate in Spanish House lunch meetings/activities if I am not a resident?

Absolutely! All Spanish House activities and meetings are open to our campus community, and anyone willing to practice their Spanish is welcome to join the Spanish House residents. Please let a Spanish faculty member know and we will put you in contact with the current residents, or we will provide you with information on their meeting times and activities.

• Questions?

If you have questions, please send them to Prof. Carlos Miguel-Pueyo, Spanish section head, at carlos.miguel-pueyo@valpo.edu