Rice University introduces the Rice in Mexico program this summer, a new initiative facilitated by the Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication (CLIC). The program is specifically designed for business majors seeking an opportunity to travel abroad while immersing themselves in Spanish language courses and sustainable business practices.
Aymara Boggiano, a senior lecturer at CLIC and the program organizer, outlined the key components of the initiative. The program comprises two courses conducted in the city of Merida, Mexico. SPAN 322, a course integral to the Spanish certificate, will be taught by Rice faculty both on campus and in Mexico. The second course, SPAN 324, emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and is led by local faculty, focusing on sustainable business practices in the region.
Boggiano explained that Merida was selected as the program location due to its proximity to Houston and the presence of an established educational provider, the Institute for Study Abroad. Exploring various options, including Peru and Costa Rica, the team settled on Merida as it offered the desired business-focused curriculum and a reliable provider with a successful track record in the region.
The program aligns with Rice University’s broader initiative to diversify study abroad opportunities beyond the pre-medical field. Boggiano emphasized the increased interest in business-focused study abroad programs, prompting the establishment of the Rice in Mexico initiative.
Colin Buechler-Neimeyer, a sophomore at Duncan College, expressed his intention to apply for the program, citing its alignment with his academic and study abroad aspirations.
“As a business major, I’ve always been interested in studying abroad, so this checks the box of that while also allowing me to fulfill SPAN 322, a requirement for my Spanish certification,” said Buechler-Neimeyer.
To enhance the immersive experience, participants are required to pledge to communicate exclusively in Spanish throughout the program. Buechler-Neimeyer emphasized the potential for improvement in his Spanish-speaking skills through continuous practice in a Spanish-speaking environment.
The application deadline for the Rice in Mexico program, accessible through the CLIC website, is Sunday, Jan. 21, providing an exciting opportunity for business-minded students to embrace language and cultural experiences in a sustainable business context.
