Day 10

 

Day 10: “Hey Siri, Play Until I See You Again”

On December 11th students from Texas A&M University of Kingsville’s (TAMUK) Communication and Science Disorders (CSDO) Program embarked on their first day of travel to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Upon their first day, they were greeted by Chad and Matt, who did a fantastic job in ensuring all students and faculty had a pleasurable trip during their entire stay. 

The first couple of days in San Juan, Puerto Rico included the students sightseeing and immersing themselves in the culture of and history the U.S territory has to offer. Afterwards, the TAMUK CSDO students met with Dr. Reyes-Valentin from the University of Albizu in San Juan (two locations, one in San Juan and one in Mayaguez) to further educate themselves on the culture, history, and linguistic differences between various Spanish dialects. This included learning about the history of Puerto Rico’s population and culture where traditional dances were demonstrated to the students before participating in a group dance activity. Additionally, key dialectal differences were noted between the various Spanish dialects (ex: Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Tex Mex). For example, in Mexico/Tex Mex Spanish, the double “L” (ll/LL) sound is produced with as a “Y” sound. However, in Puerto Rico Spanish, it’s produced with a “J” sound. 

Between the debriefings, therapy, and exploring, students found themselves enjoying the beaches, town, historic sites, and food both San Juan and Mayaguez had to offer. From getting a tour of City Hall and local a church, exploring the national historic site of Puerto Rico, visiting the plaza/town square, and enjoying the wonderful coffee and pastries in between. It’s safe to say everyone enjoyed the study abroad trip with many of the faculty and students are hoping to return for business and/or pleasure. Until next time, or as Charlie Puth says, “Until I See You Again.”

- Joemichael S.