Spanish Club: A fiesta for everyone
Campus activities come in all forms. For students such as Melissa Edgar, one such activity is the Spanish club, which meets every second Wednesday of the month in the Diversity Lounge on Murphy Center’s fifth floor. Edgar is the current president of the club and a returning member. She states the club is all-inclusive and dedicated to promoting Hispanic language and culture to anyone who is interested in learning. Edgar expressed that her love for the Latin American community and how the club has helped her improve her Spanish speaking skills.
It is the goal of the club to not only promote the language and culture, but to also promote a sense of togetherness. “We try and be welcoming to everyone on campus,” says Edgar. Many may remember the piñata that was displayed at Franny Fest; that was hosted by the Spanish club as they encouraged others to join in the festivities.
When asked if students needed to know Spanish or be involved in a class it was assured that it wasn’t needed. “Most meetings are held in English,” was the consensus on the topic.
Michelle Pinzl, the advisor expressed that Spanish wasn’t her first choice. Originally, she had started college with the intention of becoming a Physical Therapist. Pinzl stated it was after a trip to Paraguay that she fell in love with the culture and language. Pinzl stated, “Spanish wasn’t just a code, it was something that I could use.” She continued, “It was a new door that was opening for me.” After that, she changed her major to Spanish and has continued to work with the Hispanic culture since.
Many students may have noticed the Day of the Dead altar in San Damiano Chapel; this was made in dedication to the loved ones lost. It is a beautiful cultural aspect that the Hispanic community uses to honor their dead. This event is held annually and is open to all students. It is the cultural belief that ancestors come back on All Saints Day, the eve of Oct. 31 into Nov. 1. “They always come back if they are remembered, and that’s why theses altars are made,” says Pinzl.
It is the hope that students will make friends and gain an appreciation of the Hispanic culture through this club and their activities.