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image_largeA group of high school students will enhance their Spanish language skills and explore careers as part of a unique residential academy June 26-28 at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh campus.

The World Languages and Careers Academy aims to provide high school students who have at least two years of foreign language study with an intensive language learning experience encompassing the skills of speaking, listening, writin, and reading. The use of authentic materials is intended to increase cultural knowledge.

UW Oshkosh Professor Elizabeth Wade-Sirabian, who is serving as academy director, said the new intensive residential language learning experience will inspire students “to continue studying a foreign language in college, to consider studying abroad, and to see the connections between foreign language study and a variety of careers and academic fields.”

She said they are nearly at the cap of 20 students enrolled in the Spanish language academy.

“We hope that word will spread and we will be able to run (future) academies for other languages as well,” Wade-Sirabian said. German and French language programs did not have enough students enrolled to offer academies this year.

Brenda Karls, a Cooperative Academic Partnership Program (CAPP) teacher from Kettle Moraine High School will be the Spanish instructor and female counselor. UW Oshkosh nursing/Spanish student Logan Rihn will serve as male counselor and medical assistant. The cultural activities coordinator will be Liliana Sciarrotta, UW Oshkosh foreign languages and literatures/Spanish senior lecturer.

Guest speakers are planned from several UW Oshkosh academic programs as well as representatives from the Office of International Education. With assistance from career services, alumni and professionals outside the university, students will hear how foreign language study may enhance a variety of career paths.

Students will experience residence hall living and take part in cultural activities including a movie night and outdoor recreation in Spanish.

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