What inspired you to work for Expanish?
I was drawn to Expanish not just by its renowned reputation in the industry, but by the genuine commitment it holds towards its values and the people it serves. Expanish isn't just a language school; it's a community built on the foundation of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
The values Expanish upholds—inclusivity, excellence in education, and fostering meaningful connections—deeply resonate with me.
Why do you do what you do?
I do what I do because I believe in the transformative power of experiential learning. Every day, I'm driven by the opportunity to facilitate unforgettable experiences for our students.
It's about more than just teaching a language; it's about creating environments where individuals can immerse themselves fully in a new culture, broaden their perspectives, and forge lifelong connections. Seeing students grow, not just in their language proficiency, but also in their confidence and cultural understanding, is incredibly rewarding.
Canela with students in Málaga who brought roses on her last day of the program.
What is your favorite part of your job?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the opportunity to spend time with the students and get to know them a little better. Witnessing their progress in language skills is fulfilling, but what truly makes it special is the personal bond we build.
Whether it's chatting during breaks or observing their interactions during activities, these moments provide insights into their backgrounds, aspirations, and even their sense of humor. These relationships not only enhance the learning experience but also foster a supportive community within the school.
What are some current projects you are working on?
Currently, one of the major projects I'm focused on is the organization of the Expanish Summer Camp 2024. It's an exciting venture for us as it marks the first time we're hosting a summer camp program.
We're putting a lot of effort into designing engaging activities, selecting experienced staff, and ensuring a safe and enriching experience for the participants. We're eager to create memorable experiences for the campers and set the foundation for future successful summer camps.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Reflecting on my travels, one thing I'd advise my past self is to really mingle with the locals.
Sure, ticking off the must-see attractions is great, but nothing beats the insight and warmth you get from chatting with people who call the place home.
So, to anyone about to embark on a journey, don't underestimate the value of connecting with the community you're visiting.
What makes Expanish special?
At Expanish we demonstrate an unwavering passion and enthusiasm in every project we undertake.
This contagious energy isn't just confined to our team; it extends to our students and collaborators alike. It's the driving force behind everything we do. Whether it's designing immersive learning experiences, fostering meaningful connections with our students, or collaborating with partners to create impactful initiatives, our passion shines through.
This dedication not only elevates the quality of our work but also inspires those around us. It's this unique blend of passion and enthusiasm that sets us apart, defining the essence of our organization.
Canela and other staff with their student Melissa, from the Netherlands.
Why should someone choose Expanish over competitors?
Choosing Expanish over competitors is a decision rooted in our unwavering passion for what we do, and it's the difference that our students can feel from the moment they walk through our doors. Our team is dedicated to providing more than just language instruction; we're committed to creating an immersive and engaging learning environment where students thrive.
Our passion infuses every aspect of our programs, from our innovative teaching methods to our personalized approach to student support. At Expanish, we believe that when passion meets expertise, the result is an unparalleled learning experience that empowers students to reach their language goals with confidence and enthusiasm.
What hopes do you have for the future of Expanish?
My hope for the future of Expanish is that we continue to grow while staying true to our essence. It's important to me that as we expand and evolve, we never lose sight of the values and principles that have guided us from the beginning.
By maintaining our authenticity and commitment to our mission, I believe we can continue to positively impact the lives of our students and community.
What is Expanish's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Our organization's mission is to foster mutual understanding in society through immersive cultural experiences. We achieve this by offering a variety of classes and activities that ensure our students are fully immersed in the culture of our city.
For instance, we conduct “Español en vivo” classes, organize cooking sessions, and provide flamenco lessons to give our students a taste of the local lifestyle.
Additionally, we encourage them to explore beyond our city by arranging weekend excursions to visit neighboring towns and cities in Andalusia. By providing these opportunities for cultural immersion, we continue to uphold our mission of promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope that our students take away the experience of a lifetime from our programs. It's not just about learning Spanish; it's about immersing themselves in a vibrant culture, making friends with both locals and fellow students, and embarking on a journey of personal growth.
By the end of their time with us, I want them to feel a profound sense of accomplishment in fulfilling their language learning goals while also, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Spanish-speaking world. Ultimately, I aim for our students to leave with memories, friendships, and skills that will last them a lifetime.
Canela in La Alberca, in the north of Spain.
How do you help support participants?
I support participants by ensuring they have all the necessary information to navigate their life in the Málaga with ease and comfort. This involves providing them with essential resources and readily available whenever they need assistance.
Whether it's sharing detailed guidance on local transportation, offering recommendations for dining and activities, or addressing any concerns they may have, I strive to be a reliable source of support throughout their journey.
By empowering participants with knowledge and being accessible to address their needs, I aim to enhance their overall experience and help them feel confident and well-prepared during their time here.
If you could participate in one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?
If given the opportunity to participate in one of our Expanish’s programs, I would find it difficult to choose just one destination. However, if I had to decide, I would start in Buenos Aires, then travel to Barcelona, and finally to Madrid.
Each city offers its own unique cultural experiences and attractions. Throughout the program, I would eagerly participate in all the activities proposed, immersing myself fully in the local culture and taking advantage of every learning opportunity. I would engage actively, making the most of my time to enhance my language skills and deepen my understanding of the culture during classtime.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and immersing oneself in new cultures is essential because it offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and development. Stepping beyond familiar boundaries exposes us to diverse perspectives, challenges our assumptions, and cultivates empathy.
Navigating unfamiliar environments hones vital life skills such as adaptability and effective communication across cultural divides. Additionally, experiencing new cultures enriches our lives in ways we could have never imagined.
Ultimately, venturing out and discovering the world not only expands our horizons but also contributes to building a more inclusive and interconnected global community.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Don't overthink it. Going abroad is an experience that will always bring you positive things. It's an opportunity for personal growth, cultural enrichment, and unforgettable memories.
Embrace the unknown, step out of your comfort zone, and open yourself up to new experiences and perspectives. Yes, there may be challenges along the way, but they are all part of the journey that will ultimately shape you into a more resilient and adaptable individual.
So, my advice to anyone thinking about going abroad is simple: just go for it. You won't regret it.
Canela with her daughter in Liverpool
What qualities in program & host community relations are important to you? (And Expanish?)
One of the most important qualities to me is reciprocity. It's crucial that there is an exchange of knowledge and experience in both directions, ensuring that the benefits are mutual. This means not only providing valuable resources and support to the participants but also actively engaging with them to learn from their perspectives, traditions, and expertise.
Open communication, respect for cultural differences, and a willingness to collaborate are also key components in fostering positive and sustainable relationships between participants and Expanish.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel embodies an immersive experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing to truly engage with the culture, people, and environment of a destination. It's about forging connections with locals, participating in community activities, and delving into the rich tapestry of local traditions and customs.
Whether it's learning a new language or simply meeting new people, meaningful travel allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world around us. It's about creating lasting memories, gaining fresh perspectives, and leaving a positive impact wherever we go.
