A Free Spanish program for Healthcare professionals and first responders is being offered by Bilingual America. Ricardo González, the Executive Director, writes below how he hopes that his company's Claro initiative will have a positive impact on some of today's challenges, in the same way as Martin Luther King positively impacted America's challenges during his time. 

Is Ricardo ambitious? Sure he is.  AmeriSpan's view is that people who participate in the Claro Initiative will make an impact on today's challenges and if enough people participate … who knows?  If you have been considering one of our Medical Spanish programs, Claro is a great pre/post program to further your Spanish skills.

MLK, Hispanics and The Claro Initiative by Ricardo González

Martin Luther King said, "We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing a being too late."

I don't profess to have inside knowledge on the revered Dr. King's thoughts regarding the Latino experience in the United States. I do know that after his death, his wife Coretta Scott King, was a public supporter of Latino worker rights alongside of César Chávez, the Latino labor rights leader at the time.
 
I spent many years in Atlanta, GA, Dr King's birthplace. Without a doubt, on some social issues, African Americans and Hispanics do have common experiences and do, many times, work to put out a unified message.

The truth is, however, that many times Hispanics and African Americans are fighting for the same attention from our country, and unfortunately, it can sometimes be a rather tense social and working relationship.

A few practical examples are in order here. Jackie Robinson's legacy is much more chronicled and revered by the general public than that of Roberto Clemente, who basically broke the same ground for Latino ballplayers. César Chávez led a fight for Latino worker rights that was of the highest national social magnitude and he is certainly not held in national reverence as is Dr. King.

That being said, Latinos are in debt to Dr. King and we should recognize it. He brought social and racial justice to the forefront of the American psyche. He, of all people, made it possible for ethnic minorities to live in an America that generally welcomes and understands the need for diversity. Is there more work to be done? Of course, but in the midst of that journey we should also see the many positive steps that have been taken as evidence by the fact that for the first time in our history we have an African American President. We also have Governors and Senators who are Hispanics, several of which were elected in this past election.

Now, let's turn a corner here. As we honor today MLK's life and memory, I want you to think about the quoted words above as it relates to today's world and today's Hispanic experience.

"We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing a being too late."

Although I am not comparing it in any way to the amazing life and legacy of Dr. King, I do think that The Claro Initiative is just as important in today's world as the work he did in his world. Today's world is different from the early to mid 60's when Dr. King was leading the cause for justice for African-Americans. We are truly confronted with the "fierce urgency of now" as he so eloquently states. The reality of today's "fierce urgency" is that Hispanics now far and away outnumber African Americans in the United States. Outside of the numbers themselves, the "fierce urgency of now" is that Hispanics are suffering a nearly 50 percent high school dropout rate nationally, a 45 percent single mother rate, and of all people being sentenced to federal prison, 40 percent are Hispanics. If this isn't "urgent" I don't know what is. On top of this, recognize that it is the Hispanic populace that is projected to nearly triple in the next 40 years.

If you are participating in The Claro Initiative know that every time you work to improve your Spanish, you are struggling to better the Latino populace in this country, and thus, are fighting for a better America. Be reminded today that your mission of learning Spanish is very important to you being able to reach out to the nation's largest minority at a deeper level than possible if you you do not do so. Thus, as we multiply the numbers of learners, understand that your learning Spanish, and being able to communicate effectively in your local area, is critically important to the overall well being of our great country. Capture the moment and, by all means, as Dr. King says, "there is such a thing as being too late."

This article re-posted with the permision of Bilingual America. Why not take a FREE aptitude test to discover the best way for you to learn Spanish.

But did you know that there is now an application that will A. Analyze and translate a word or phrase that you are capturing with your camera and B. Show the translation directly on the images on the screen?  This invention would be a perfect accessory for the language traveler abroad.  We tested the application ourselves, and you've truly got to see it to believe it!

Here's a great Tech Crunch article reviewing the app:

Word Lens Translates Words Inside of Images. Yes, Really.

If you are planning a study abroad trip, language software can be an excellent tool to refresh your language skills, ease your fears about living in a country where English is not the norm, and help with cultural adjustment. If you haven’t read AmeriSpan’s Guide to Cultural Adjustment, take a minute to download a free copy here. It is an excellent resource for all study abroad participants, as well as travelers of any genre.

We have identified and reviewed five top language software programs that can be very helpful in learning or refreshing a language.

Praxis Language has products for learning Chinese, French, Italian, and Spanish. They began with ChinesePod, an innovative system of podcasts that users can take with them anywhere to learn the language on the go. They offer online support and different levels for all levels of Chinese speakers. This has evolved into FrenchPod, ItalianPod, and SpanishPod. An excellent resource for somebody who wants to learn the language on their own terms, at their own pace, and on the go.

Rosetta Stone is probably the best-known language software available. They have a unique approach to teaching, in which users learn comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. You can buy the CD-ROM format or the new online subscription format, which allows you access anywhere you have a computer with an internet connection. The grammar and vocabulary is taught naturally, without memorization, translation, lists, or drills. Rosetta Stone also has speech recognition technology, which helps with pronunciation. They have a different approach, with no English translation, which is meant to teach you the way you learned to speak as a child. Overall an excellent and comprehensive investment.

Tell Me More is a leader in language software as well. They offer up to 2,000 hours of learning and 10,000 types of exercises. There are 10 levels of learning, with advanced speech recognition technology. They include grammar explanations, cultural content, online tests and chat, MP3 player compatibility, and much more. Tell Me More is offered in Spanish, English, French, Italian, German, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Dutch.

Transparent Language is an excellent online resource that also offers CD-ROM software. They offer an astounding 105 languages! The software includes video immersion environments, flashcard tools, translation dictionaries, reference sets, and audio courses. There are also very interesting blogs about learning many different languages and living abroad. A tool we particularly like is called BYKI, for “Before You Know It.” BYKI software is offered as a free download, with an upgrade option. An intuitive tool, BYKI keeps track of the words or phrases you know, and repeats the ones you don’t know more often. This allows for quicker and more complete progress by not constantly repeating words you already know. The upgrade unlocks more features and levels. Highly recommended!

Visual Link Spanish is just for Spanish, but also an excellent tool to check out. They offer 11 free Spanish lessons, a free Spanish dictionary, and free resources for Spanish teachers. They offer excellent products with different concentrations, such as workplace Spanish, and lesson plans for middle and high school teachers.

Other Language Learning Ideas

Think Spanish & Think French – subscriptions to magazines written intermediate Spanish & French with a variety of learning aids.

Bilingual America Spanish programs – A variety of products including languages classes via phone, complete DVD courses and an online program. Trial offer.

No matter which language software you choose, it can do nothing but help you when you are preparing for your study abroad trip. Click to find and research complete information on AmeriSpan Study Abroad programs.

For details about studying in Vienna, see Studying German in Austria

See all of Lauren's video blogs from Vienna

Why do we love Think Spanish and Think French?
With a subscription to Think Spanish or Think French, you receive 12 months of continuous learning with new content every month:

• A complete learning package of monthly articles, audio, lessons and more!
• A proven method to increase Spanish or French fluency naturally and effectively, at home and at your own pace!

• New and engaging articles every month to increase fluency and grammar.
• For students of all ages and levels, Spanish/French for Travelers, Business or Workplace Spanish/French, and of course Spanish/French Teachers … there is truly something for everyone!
• Authentic audio files accompany each article, read aloud by native Spanish speakers designed to improve listening and pronunciation. Listen to the audio online or save to your iPod or CD player.
• Monthly “Repeat After Me” exercises with audio, grammar lessons from an award-winning teacher, vocabulary flashcards, and listening and reading comprehension quizzes.

If you are interested, act now as this special is only valid until January 1st! Go to Think Spanish or Think French. 

Stocking Stuffer Alert! More great gifts for language travelers:

International Student Identity Cards (ISIC)

Worldwide Cell Phones & SIM Cards: Mobal 

Europe Cell Phones & SIM Cards: Eurobuzz

Best Study Abroad Luggage

Lonely Planet Guidebooks

AmeriSpan Gift Certificates

By Jonathon L., guest blogger studying Spanish and skiing in Santiago, Chile

Chilean Mixology 102 – Terremotos y Maremotos  (101 is for Pisco Sour, but this is more interesting) 

Directions (vary depending on location): 

-Take 2 scoops of pineapple flavored ice cream and put them in a 16(ish) ounce glass.

-Take cheap white wine, Vino Pipeño (it tasted a lot like sangria)and fill the glass nearly to the top.

- Top it off with about a shot’s worth of one of the following (everyone I asked has told me different things) Cognac, Rum, or Pisco

-Spin it all together with a spoon or straw, insert the straw and..

- ENJOY!

Warning: One Terremoto ("Hurricane") may result in a mild headache throughout the entire next day.  2 Terremotos almost guarantees a "terremoto" in your head for the entire next day. And they say that 3 Terrimotos is the limit, however, few remember making it that far.

A Twist: The maremoto ("Tsunami") – Top off your terrimoto with mint liquor for a listerine-esque experience thats at least twice as fun as dental hygiene.

Chilean Mixology 103 – Mote con Huesillos

Yet another classic Chilean beverage, this one is more of a tea than a mixed drink (however it has just as much sugar, if not more than, than the Terremotos).  However, this “TEA” is meant for summertime enjoyment as it consists of the following:

- MOTE: Grain like wheat product that looks like the result of cross breeding corn with granola and then boiling it until it gets soft.

- Huesillos: Dried Peaches, that are then put back into water and sugar to be rehydrated.

- The Tea: Pretty much, if you took canned peaches and used the syrupy liquid from it, that’s exactly what this tasted like.

- Spoon: To facilitate eating (and also make drinking from the cup somewhat challenging for my chilean hermana, but very hilarious)

My Mote experience was part of a larger journey where I summited to the top of Cerro San Cristobal to see the large Vergen who overlooks and protects the city of Santiago from atop of this giant hill.  She is lucky though, because on a clear day she can see for miles from the top of her perch.  However, yesterday was not a clear day….but through the smog and clouds, I could see the nearby mountain ranges and nearly the entire urban center of the city.

Find out more about Spanish and Skiing in Santiago

See Spanish school in Santiago

Read all of Jonathon's blogs from Santiago

Do the languages we speak shape the way we think? Do they merely express
thoughts, or do the structures in languages (without our knowledge or consent)
shape the very thoughts we wish to express? 

The Wall Street Journal's lifestyle section has a fascinating article on this topic.

Do you need to learn Spanish or expand your Spanish language skills?

AmeriSpan Study Abroad has partnered once again with Bilingual America to offer a very special, high quality Spanish program for free to qualified participants. If you are in the medical, law enforcement, school teaching, social work or ministerial fields you can get Bilingual America's Basic to Expert Level Spanish Power course at no charge through The Claro Initiative. The Claro Initiative is a community service initiative to provide Spanish training to critical social service professionals at no charge. Spanish Power is considered the most comprehensive and results-driven Spanish training program in the country by many people and we encourage you to take advantage of this amazing opportunity. By the way, if you don't qualify but know someone who does, send them the link below so they can benefit.

Click or share this link to read more about this offer and request admittance to the free Spanish Power course here: https://bilingualamerica.infusionsoft.com/go/claro/immer$$ab/

What if you don't qualify?   
If you do not qualify for this special offer because you are not in one of the professional fields listed above, but are looking for a high-quality Spanish training program, we highly recommend you try this free trial package from the Claro Initiative through Bilingual America. A unique aspect of Bilingual America's programs is that they also make one-on-one tutoring available on an optional basis. They are a very respected, trusted institute that has been around since 1992. Other students recommended from AmeriSpan Study Abroad have been very happy with the results they have achieved with them. If you do not qualify for free courseware via The Claro Initiative you can get a really nice free trial package here.

Go to or share this link for a free trial package:  https://bilingualamerica.infusionsoft.com/go/SPGPS/immer$$ab/

Q: How are homestay families selected?  Will you be able to make sure all of my preferences are met?
A: Families usually volunteer based on room in their house and an interest to be a cultural ambassador. The homestays are visited by school staff regularly to ensure the quality and sanitation of the house, kitchen rooms and bathrooms. We also continue to re-evaluate families as we get feedback from students, and will discontinue working with a specific family if they do not meet our standards. Families usually are very interested in hearing about where you're from and helping you to understand more about their language and culture.

Q: I am so excited to meet my family!  When can I expect details about them?
A: Usually 1-2 weeks before you leave for your program. We assign them close to your departure date so that there is little chance of last-minute changes based on family emergencies or changes in plans. We will send you at least details about the host mother, address and phone number, but will include any and all information we have about the family and house. If you have any questions about them, don't hesitate to ask!

Q: What's an appropriate host/hostess gift to bring from home?
A: Many students bring things that represent themselves or where their from. If you're an ice skater going to a tropical country, bringing something about your sport will be interesting and exotic to them. Some students choose to bring a picture book, if you're from somewhere picturesque like Canada. Perhaps a figurine of the Statue of Liberty if you're from New York. One student brought pancake mix and syrup for her family in Spain and cooked for them, as they had never had pancakes before!

Q: Can I make calls/get calls at my homestay?
A: Generally, we recommend not to make any calls from your host family's house unless it is an emergency, and even then only with a calling card. If you receive a call, please keep it short, as most families do not have call waiting or voicemail and that is their only line. There is usually internet available at the school or internet cafes nearby, and you can Skype your family or friends for longer converstions.

Q: What if I don't like the food I'm given/can't finish it all?

A: If you have any serious allergies or dietary restrictions (vegetarian, kosher, gluten free, lactose intolerant, etc), please let us know on your application so that we can find a family who is flexible for your needs. If you are just a picky eater, try to be adventurous, you're in a new place and food is usually a large part of the culture! For any requests or needs,  please be prepared to sit down with your family upon your arrival and explain your diet to them in the local language. That way, you can be sure they understand your meaning. If you are a beginner, it is a good idea to have a friend or teacher translate your ideas so that you can bring it with you!

If you have any more questions about staying with a host family or are unsure whether or not you want to stay with one, feel free to contact the AmeriSpan office 9am-5pm EST at 800-879-6640 or info@amerispan.com