International Connections Consulting Newsletter

ICC AT THE FEDELE CONFERENCE IN SPAIN

The goal of the workshop is to bring together schools in Spain and agents and educational advisors from around the world providing an opportunity for the latter to familiarize themselves with the schools and Spain.  International Connections Consulting's President, Tasha Lewis, was one of  seven Americans selected to participate in this conference.  Ms. Lewis felt honored and privilege to be one of the select few to be invited to participate in this pioneer event. 

The 1st FEDELE (Federacion de Escuelas de Espanol para Extranjeros/Federation of Spanish Schools for Foreigners) annual meeting took place in Estepona (Malaga) Spain at the Hotel Atalaya Park.  This event was made possible by Turespana, through its Tourism Offices abroad:  The Tourism Department in Andalusia (Turismo Andaluz, S.A.), The Tourist Board of  the Costa del Sol, Cadiz, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, The Town Halls of Malaga and Benalmadena, and Iberia Airlines.  The workshop took place from
the 12th to the 17th of October 1999.  It was the first time that they were able to gather an excellent 
representation of Spanish Language Schools, well-known for their professionality and high-quality standard of services.  The agents and educational advisors would have the opportunity to meet the schools educators from different parts of  Spain, mainly from Andalusia, Aragon, the Bosque Country, Catalonia, Castilla y Leon, Madrid and Valencia. 

During the first two days, school representatives met with agents/educational advisors based on preset schedules with some modifications allowed if vacancies or schedule conflicts occur.  This process was conducted from 9am to 7pm with breakfast, prior to meetings, and a lunch break during the sessions.  To some who are not familiar with this type of conference it might be a bit exhausting; however, ICC's President had participated in several meetings in the past that followed
this pattern.  Ms. Lewis felt that the meetings and the overall process was handled in a professional and
mutually beneficial fashion.  If an agent or school had to travel all over Spain to institute such meetings, the cost would be quite substantial and time consuming. Additionally, since she speaks Spanish fluently, she felt like the entire process was like a week long course of  conversational Spanish from the different regions of Spain. This only emphasized the importance of  learning Spanish and about the Spanish culture in order to do business in Spain or anywhere that requires speaking Spanish. 

The location for the meeting was the Hotel Atalaya Park (a four star hotel and resort).  Their host Turespana had spared no expense to accommodate the schools and agents at a place where they would feel welcome and comfortable throughout the conference.  They took care of all of the details for the agents and schools in order to allow them to focus on the business at hand.  All of the participants were given a sample of the Spanish culture in terms of the lunch (late afternoon) and dinner (late evening)  schedules. The facility was truly impeccable and provided everything that was needed to accommodate the workshop. 

After the meetings, the next two days were dedicated to allowing the agents/educational advisors to visit some of the schools located near the hotel in Andalucia. At each school, they were given a tour of the facility after a welcome breakfast in which they met with city officials and some of  the currently enrolled students.  Some people say that a picture is worth a thousand words.  In this case, a visit was worth a thousand words.  Ms. Lewis, like many of the other conference attendees, can not begin to tell you what a
difference visiting the schools made on her impression of the facility.  The brochures that she received during the meetings or having viewed the web sites previously gave her an idea; however, the real thing, in some instances, gave her the motivation that she or one of  her colleagues would need to sell their product, school. 

Some of the schools that Ms. Lewis met with were the following: 

  • Academia Lenguaviva 
  • Alta Eficacia 
  • Berlingua Idiomas 
  • Centro De Idiomas Larcos 
  • Centro Ensenanza Espanol La Herradura 
  • Clic International House Sevilla 
  • Colegio De  Estudios Hispanicos 
  • Colegio De Espana 
  • Colegio Maravillas 
  • Colegio Mayor Galileo Galilei 
  • Don Quijote 
  • Enforex Spanish Language School 
  • Escuela CF Idiomas 
  • Escuela De Idiomas Nerja 
  • Escuela Internacional 
  • Estudios Y Practicas 
  • Eureka School 
  • Giralda Center 
  • Hispano Continental
  • Hispanica Colegio Internacional 
  • Instituto Mediterraneo Sol s.l. 
  • International House Barcelona 
  • Sociedad Hispano Mundial 
  • Sureuropa Escuela De Espanol 
  • Tandem Donostia 
  • Academia de Idiomas Trinity School


Just to name a few of  the schools attending.  Check out the article in this months newsletter that provides a brief description of  each school that highlights one of their special offerings. 

Mr. Juan M Diez Fernandez (JMDF), Collaborator and a member of the board of  trustees Costa Del Sol, was on hand to give Ms. Lewis an interview regarding the FEDELE Conference. 

ICC:    "What's your role with the FEDELE Conference?" 

JMDF:   "I'm the collaborator and a member of the board of  trustees for the promotion of the Costa del Sol.  This organization is very well known throughout the world.  It is responsible  for making this event a reality.  This event has been made possible thanks to the efforts of Turespana, through its Tourism Offices abroad (The Tourism Department in Andalusia (Turismo Andaluz, S.A.), The Tourist Board of the Costa del Sol, Cadiz, Seville, Cordoba, Granada, The Town Halls of  Malaga and Benalmadena and in addition to all of the local diplomats and authorities in each town.  All the entities dedicated their time and energy to this efforts.  The FEDELE conference provided an opportunity for me to get to know the quality schools and agents, who will assist the schools in bringing students and tourist to Spain." 

ICC:    "Please Explain to me what is FEDELE." 

JMDF:   "FEDELE is the Federacion De Escuelas De Espanol Para Extranjeros (Federation of Spanish Schools for Foreigners) in Spain.  This event is a great offer for distinctive communities in different regions of Spain.  Each community has its own province.  There are a wide selection of  schools who teach Spanish to foreigners.   Each school operates individually.  It is very costly to obtain students by utilizing outside forces.  Therefore, FEDELE, which is the first event of this type, provides a great opportunity to group all of the schools together in one conference that facilitates connections between the schools and 
agents.  I feel certain that the results will be positive." 

ICC:    "You indicated that this is the first FEDELE meeting." 

JMDF:   "This is the first international meeting of  the FEDELE.  The schools have met independently on various occasions before; however, this is the first time they have met as a group." 

ICC:    "After this event, other entities who hold meetings similar to this type maybe be a little concerned about the Spanish schools, who participated in their events previously, continuing to participate in their conferences." 

JMDF:   "I think FEDELE is an excellent idea for both parties (schools and agents).   I believe the results from the meetings will be positive.  I have a good impression of this event.  It is the first time I have been to an event like this where I have seen so much interest in doing business.  Normally, the workshops that I have attended in the past have been for a few hours in the morning or afternoon.  During the first two days, there are a series of intense meetings for two mornings and two evenings." 

ICC:    "The good thing about the workshop is that in addition to two days of meetings there are opportunities to visit several of the schools and tourist sites along with numerous organized activities that include the schools and agents.  This allows them an opportunity to really get to know the schools management staff."

JMDF:   "That is the second part of the conference that allows the agents to get to know Spain and the other cities where some of the schools are located.  Mainly to discover that Spain has a lot more to offer than the Bullfight, Flamenco or sun.  Spain is full of history and culture that dates back to the fifth century A.D.  So, in addition to  coming to Spain to study, it offers so much more for students and tourist." 

ICC:     "I would like to thank Mr. Juan M. Diez Fernandez for the interview and his hospitality." 

In addition to all of the meetings, our host arranged several visits to some of the schools in the nearby cities of Almunecar, Benalmadena, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Malaga, Nerja and Seville.  In each location, we visited a school or some of the local tourist attractions.  We were greeted with open arms, breakfast, lunch or dinner (depending on the time of day).  Some of the attendees were local diplomats like the mayor of the town or other local authorities.  Picasso's house and the Botanical Gardens were some of the attractions we visited in Malaga.  At the Botanical Gardens, we had lunch in a gazebo type house surrounded by a spectacular garden and the sound of birds chirping as we were served a delicious lunch.  The hospitality that we received was impeccable and spared no details. 

All of the schools that Ms. Lewis visited offered something unique for ICC's clients. Whether your interested in an elegant upscale school or a quiet quaint school, there was something for everyone to meet your taste or budget.  Additionally, the representatives of each school expressed nothing but positive and considerate thoughts about their colleagues.  This gave us the feeling that all of schools were harmonious and confident with the products they offered.  This event could serve as a model for other conferences of this nature. 

Even the overnight accommodations in whichever respective city chosen was four star.  Our host spared no expense to give all of the participants a taste of the "real" Spain and what it had to offer. Ms. Lewis recalls two particular memorable visits that helped to give her group the jolt they needed to continue their journey to Granada.  One was their visit to Nerja.  After visiting the Escuela De Idiomas Nerja which was located in a quaint building that provided a wonderful atmosphere for learning, our group went to Hispanica Colegio Internacional De Estudios Practicos de Lengua y Cultural Espanolas.  Not only was the school exquisite inside and out, it overlooked the ocean with seven distinct terraces.  After giving us a tour, Mr. Enrique Caro Bernal, Director, entertained us by singing two Spanish songs.  This was just what our group needed to motivate us to make our final visit  to Instituto Mediterraneo Sol and dinner engagement in Almunecar where the Mayor, Antonio Manuel Rebollo Martinez, along with several other colleagues had
been awaiting our visit most of the day.  This fact alone made us feel like special guest.

There are so many other memorable visits that they will be covered in the article on "Schools in Spain" including Ms. Lewis's perception of the school.

Ms. Lewis would like to thank all of the schools that she met with and the ones that she didn't for their hospitality and kindness throughout her stay in Spain.  She will include a brief description and more details about all of the other schools that she visited in the article on "Schools in Spain" in order to avoid repetition to our readers. 

International Connections Consulting would also like to thank the following: 

  •  Federacion De Escuelas De Espanol Para Extranjeros (FEDELE) 
  • Iberia Airlines 
  • Tourist Office of  Spain 
  • Monica Sanchez, Deputy Director (Tourist Office of Spain) 
  • Alvaro Renedo, Director (Tourist Office of Spain) 
  • Teresa Perez, Intern (Tourist Office of  Spain) 
  • Turespana 
  • D. Carlos Horno, Director General De Turespana 
  • D. Marcelino Mendez-Trelles, Director General De Fomento Y Promocion
  • Turistica 
  • The Tourism Department in Andalusia (Turismo Andaluz, S.A.) 
  • The Tourist Board of the Costa del Sol, Cadiz, Seville, Cordoba, Granada 
  • The Town Halls of  Malaga and Benalmadena 
  • Hotel Atalaya Park, Estepona (Malaga) Spain 
  • Juan M Diez Fernandez , Patronato De Turismo (Costa Del Sol)


If you would like more information about the FEDELE conference, please contact Mr. Juan M. Diez Fernandez, Costa del Sol, Patronato de Turismo, Palacio deCongresos y Exposiciones Costa del Sol, C/. Mexico s/n, 29620 Torremolinos (Malaga),Spain, Phone 95-205-86-94/95 205 86 95, Fax 95-205-03-11/ 95- 237-04-06, E-mail costadelsol@sopde.es, web site www.costadelsol.sopde.es.

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MAKE SPAIN YOUR CHOICE FOR STUDYING SPANISH

After receiving the privilege of visiting and meeting with numerous schools in Spain in October, International Connections Consulting’s President, Tasha Lewis, has to admit that Spain is one of the locations at the top of  her list of recommendations for studying Spanish.  If your looking for quality and excellence, Spain would be a perfect choice for you. 

Ms. Lewis thought the best way to share her experience would be to offer you a brief sample of  each school that she met with and/or visited and let you be the judge. 

Academia Lenguaviva
Located in Sevilla, Spain 
Agents attending the FEDELE conference  were given a mock Spanish lesson to experience first hand what students experienced.  Lenguaviva offers a wide selection of  courses to meet the needs of  its clients throughout the year.

Alta Eficacia
Located in Madrid and other cities in Spain 
If your looking for the perfect Executive program or networking opportunity, Alta Eficacia has the perfect program for you. 

Berlingua Idiomas
Located in Alicante, Spain 
Berlingua offers two locations to give their students a taste of the city life in one school with a contrast of the beach at the other site.  They also offer special programs in the summer for teenagers with extra activities, one day trip, au pair, cultural tours, theatre, music and sports. 

Centro De Idiomas Larcos
Located in Cordoba, Spain 
Centro De Idiomas Larcos is located in one of the oldest districts of the town of  Cordoba.  It offers teenage summer courses along with tailor-made programs to meet the wide variety of  requirements for their clients. 

Centro Ensenanza Espanol La Herradura
Located in La Herradura, Granada-Espana 
In addition to a wide selection of course offerings, Centro Ensenanza Espanol La Herradura offers special programs that can include the whole family.  This type of program is ideal for those families that would like to combine vacation and studies and include the whole family. 

Clic International House Sevilla
Located in Sevilla, Spain 
Clic is located in the heart of Seville near the Town Hall Cathedral and Royal Palaces in a refurbished traditional house.  It makes an ideal spot for those who want to absorbe the historical towns landmarks and discover the real "Sevilla." 

Colegio De  Estudios Hispanicos
Located in Barcelona, Granada, Marbella, Madrid, Salamanca, Sevilla, Valencia /Spain 
With a wide variety of  locations, Colegio De Estudios Hispanicos can offer their students an opportunity to get to know many of the popular cities in Spain. 

Colegio De Espana
Located in Salamanca, Spain 
Situated in two antique buildings in the center of  Salamanca, Colegio De Espana offers a touch of convenience with history.  They have a line of editorial textbooks about  Spanish as a foreign language. 

Colegio Maravillas 
Located in Benalmadena, Malaga/Spain 
Having a travel agency in house allows Colegio Maravillas to handle all of the details of their incoming and outgoing students needs.  If a client would like to book a complete package (study program, airline, hotel, etc.), they can make all of their arrangements right at the school. 

Colegio Mayor Galileo Galilei
Located in Valencia, Spain 
Appointed by the Polytechnic University of  Valencia, Colegio Mayor Galileo Galilei gives their students a chance to mix with university students with all backgrounds and majors to help enhance the learning process. 

Don Quijote
Located in Barcelona, Granada, Madrid, Malaga, Salamanca, Tenerife/Spain 
Read all about them in the ICC newsletter.

Enforex Spanish Language School
Located in serveral cities in Spain 
Read all about them in the ICC newsletter.

Escuela CF Idiomas
Located in Aranda De Duero, Spain 
Situated in the center of a historic city, Escuela CF Idiomas offers their clients an opportunity to learn Spanish in a small town with a quaint environment and very few foreigners. 

Escuela De Idiomas Nerja
Located in Nerja, Spain 
Escuela De Idiomas Nerja gives their clients a choice of  indoor or outdoor classes (weather premitting of course) in a quaint  and tranquil garden setting. Nearby are the famous “Cuervas de Nerja” (Caves of  Nerja) where concerts are offered in the summer. 

Escuela Internacional
Located in several locations in Spain 
Read all about them in the ICC newsletter. (change Cancun, Mexico location to Cuvernavaca, Mexico, add Coasta Rica and  Quito, Ecuador) 

Estudios Y Practicas
Located in Bilbao, Spain 
Situated in the norhern part of  Spain, Estudios Y Practicas  gives their clients another view of Spain.  They offer an internship program along with social and cultural immersion with  12 different workshops. 

Eureka School
Located in Madrid, Spain
Since 1988, Eureka has been dedicated exclusively to teaching Spanish.  It provides a quaint and pleasant environment for learning Spanish.

Giralda Center 
Located in Seville/Costa del Sol, Spain 
Giralda Center  has two locations-one in the Santa Cruz district of Seville  and the other in the Costa del Sol.  They specialize in language and cultural programs for different universities and organizations around the world. 

Hispano Continental
Located in Salamanca, Spain
Specialized winter courses (Language, History, Art, Literature, Traditions and Business Spanish) are offered in their school in the city's center.

Hispanica Colegio Internacional
Located in Nerja, Spain 
Hispanica Colegio Internacional offers a touch of elegance and class for everyone.  Overlooking a cliff and the sea, the school provides a great atmosphere for studying or vacationing. 

Instituto Mediterraneo Sol s.l
Located in Almunecar, Granada/Spain
Instituto Mediterraneo Sol has two school locations-one situated in the historical town of Almunecar withiin walking distance to the beach and the other in Granada.

International House Barcelona
Located in Barcelona, Spain 
International House Barcelona is situated in downtown Barcelona which makes it convenient to visit all of the local area attractions.  It was founded in 1972 and recognizaed by the Alcala de Henares University. 

Sociedad Hispano Mundial
Located in Granada, Spain 
Being located in the Congress building where many of  the political meetings, concerts, and plays, Sociedad Hispano Mundial is the perfect choice for those who would like to mix study with the arts, business, history, and politics.  They have a wonderful Teacher Trainer program that is recognized by Oxford. 

Sureuropa Escuela De Espanol
Located in Zaragoza, Spain 
Sureuropa is the first Spanish school in Zaragoza with a mixture of Americans, Brasillians, Europeans, and Japanese.   They offer a wide selection of   courses including 
dancing and cooking parties. 

Tandem Donostia
Located in San Sabastian, Spain 
Tandem Donostia is situated in the center of  San Sabastian about 100 meters from the famous La Concha beach and the old town.  This gives their students an opportunity to enjoy both the city life and the beach. 

Academia de Idiomas Trinity School
Located in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain 
Academia de Idiomas Trinity School offers their clients an opportunity to get away from the many popular touristic sites in Spanish in order to focus on their studies in a quiet and controlled environment. 

In the next twelve months, International Connections Consulting will feature articles on several of the schools listed above to give our clients a more indepth view of the school, courses and activities. 

If you are interested in any of the schools listed in this article, please contact International Connections Consulting for more information.

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NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY HAS ONE OF THE BEST ANGLES FOR 
LEARNING ABOUT FILM MAKING

When you think of  New York City, you think of  Broadway, Coney Island or the Statue of  Liberty.  A city filled with lights, camera and action.  That's what makes New York Film Academy such an ideal choice for learning about film making. 

The New York Film Academy (NYFA) "was founded as an alternative to a formal film school.  For many students, a four year program is both impractical and economically unfeasible.  The NYFA believes that the correct path for future filmmakers is to immediately start making their own films in hands-on intensive working environments. Toward this end, all students begin making their own films in the first week of our 
workshops." 

The NYFA is fortunate to have Mr. Jerry Sherlock, Executive Producer of The Hunt for Red October, Independent Producer-Universal, EMI, Disney, Tristar, NBC, Paramuont, and United Artists and host of others, as Director of  the Academy.  He has worked on  some of the major motion pictures that are world renown and have received numerous awards. 

Alexander Meillier (AM) is Assistant Director and faculty member at the New York Film Academy along with Production Coordinator.  He is a graduate of the New York University Tisch School of the Arts School of  Film and Television.  He has directed over 15 short films and numerous videos. 

Mr. Meillier gave International Connections Consulting a host of  reasons why students choose NYFA. 

ICC:    "What in your opinion is the most compelling reason for a student to attend NYFA?  What makes NYFA unique?" 

AM:     "The most compelling reason to attend the New York Film Academy is that you can learn much of what students do in formal, university film programs, very quickly (eight weeks) by immediately beginning to direct your own  films using film as a medium. What makes us unique is the high quality of the instructors (some of which are Academy Award winners and Emmy award winners), the unrivaled access to equipment, and the responsiveness of the instructors and staff." 

ICC:    "Explain to us about some of the programs/majors that your school offers." 

AM:     "In our workshops each student writes, directs, shoots, and edits their own films. To this end we have designed an integrated curriculum covering subjects such as writing for film, directing for the camera, directing actors, hands on camera, hands on lighting, cinematography, editing, sound recording, sound design, budgeting and scheduling, and special guest lectures." 

ICC:    "What are your criteria for evaluating a student for acceptance?" 

AM:     "Our workshops are open enrollment. Students in the adult program must be 18 or older. We also have a special high school workshop for students ages 15 to 18. Only conversational English is required, we have students from all over the world (over 24 different countries so far) in attendance at the Academy." 

ICC:  "What type of student do you accept?  What qualities do you look for or consider in 
a student?" 

AM:     "Our students are highly motivated because they are aware of the intensity of the course and they want to squeeze the most out of their experience at the Academy. This workshop has been compared to Boot Camp, and an Outward Bound type of experience." 

ICC:    "Explain your teaching methodology." 

AM:     "All of the classes the students attend at the Academy are designed to be of immediate and practical use to the students. The only way to learn lighting, for example, is to set up lights, shoot film, break down the lights, screen the film, and set up the lights again. Our students learn by doing in practical hands-on workshops." 

ICC:    "We would like to thank Mr. Alexander Meillier for the interview." 
 

The New York Film Academy offers a wide variety of  workshops which include Filmmaking, Acting for Film, Writing for Film, Animation in LA,  Advanced Film Directing, Film Camp, Summer Screen Writing Intensive,  Documentary,  and Music Video.  They also offer private and corporate instruction.  Their summer workshops in the USA are held in New York City, New York at NYFA; Princeton, New Jersey at
Princeton University; Los Angeles, California at University of  Los Angeles;  and New Haven, Connecticut at Yale University.  Their summer workshops overseas are held in Cambridge, England at Cambridge University; Paris, France at the American University of Paris; and Rome, Italy at the American University of  Rome.  All of  the workshops are solely owned and operated by the NYFA. 

International Connections Consulting's President, Tasha Lewis, would like to thank Jerry Sherlock, Director of  the New York Film Academy, and Alexander Meillier, Assistant Director of the New York Film Academy, for providing all of the material for this article.  If you would like more information about NYFA or to enroll in one of their workshops, please contact International Connections Consulting.

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SOCIEDAD HISPANO MUNDIAL CATERS TO ALL TYPES OF STUDENTS

In today's global environment, the need for a wide variety of tailor made courses to meet the needs of  today's current and future business people is becoming an essential ingredient for success in any field.  Combining this with learning the Spanish language allows our future generation to compete in any specialty. 

Sociedad Hispano Mundial (SHM), located in the Conference and Exhibition Center (Palacio de Congresos) in Granada, Spain, has what it takes to prepare their students for the new millenium.    Their motto is  "Aprender para Crecer" (Learning for Growth).  Fully equipped with the latest technology and only minutes from the city's center, SHM provides comfortable, modern, air-conditioned/heated classrooms, audio-visual equipment, a student library and self-access center.  SHM's location caters to everyone from the family to the diplomat.  Concerts and political events are held in the Conference and Exhibition Center throughout the year which provides a wonderful atmosphere for cultural enrichment and observing Spanish Politics.  In addition, SHM can arrange various Internships in related fields to enhance their clients learning experience.

Located near by is the Sierra Navada and the beach.  Whether your fancy is skiing in the mountains or relaxing on the beach, SHM provides excursions that allow you to mix both worlds within the shortest distance.  There is something for the whole family-sightseeing in some of the cities famous landmarks, skiing in the mountains, swimming at the beach or "just living Spanish." 

Mr. Jose Antonio Ruiz Cantero (JC), Director of  Sociedad Hispano Mundial, was on hand for an interview with ICC's President, Tasha Lewis, outside the famous La Alhambra castle in Granada, Spain in October during the FEDELE conference.
 

ICC:    "What is your role at SHM? How long have you been at the school?" 

JC:    "I am the founder and director of Sociedad Hispano Mundial. I have nearly 17 years´  experience in foreign language teaching. SHM has been working as it is now for 5 years.  Before opening SHM I was a teacher of Spanish as a Foreign Language, Director of an International School (bilingual) and Education 
Information Officer with the British Council. At present I am a Teacher Trainer, Assesor and Internal Verifier with OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and Royal Society of Arts).  My main responsabilities are the development of course programs and the overall management of the Spanish and English language teaching and the Teacher Training programs. I am also responsible for national and overseas marketing and public relations and international projects." 

ICC:    "What in your opinion is the most compelling reason for a student to attend SHM? What makes SHM unique?" 

JC:    "I could mention many reasons I am very proud to offer to the students, such as the high quality language teaching, our enthusiastic and well qualified teachers ( all of them with post-graduate qualifications), the wide range of activities outside the class, our comfortable and well located facilities, our excellent accommodation service, our total quality control, the many prizes and awards we have been given by national and international bodies, etc. But what I consider most unique at SHM is our focus on the individual. Our main objective is to encourage and facilitate one´s personal development and so enhance one´s quality of life. The most important thing for us is the student as a person, we like people, and the students can feel it. In our school our students are our friends." 

ICC:    "What type of courses do you offer?" 

JC:    "We offer general Spanish Courses (Vacation Courses) with activities, Spanish for specific purposes programs (Legal and Political Spanish, Business Spanish, Spanish Literature and Spanish Civilization and Culture), Hispanic Studies Course for university students (to get credits for their universities) and a Teacher Training Program for people who want to become teachers of Spanish as a Foreign Language with the internationally recognised OCR Certificate (Oxford, Cambridge, Royal Society of Arts).  To enhance the learning experience we include in our courses a program of activities which goes from visiting monuments, to tapas tour, learning flamenco or salsa, and learning to play Flamenco on the guitar.   On the other hand, as we have many Spanish students, the foreign students are immediately in contact with Spanish ones. We also provide all kinds of accommodations, from very well selected families to hotels. All the students have access to our library, where they can borrow books or audio-visual materials and they can have free access to Internet. There is also a continuous Information Service to the students and a 24 hour telephone service to help them while they stay with us. Don´t forget that Granada has activities that go on 24 hours a day  in the city with more than 60,000 students!" 

ICC:    "What is your criteria for evaluating a student for acceptance?" 

JC:    "In the case of the Vacation Courses, we accept individual students from 16; and in the case of groups, we also accept younger ones. The groups are divided into children, teenagers and adults. For these courses we always have all levels available, so the level is not a problem (from beginners to advanced). 

In the case of Spanish for Specific Courses, the students must have a minimum of intermediate level. 

For the Teacher Training Program, the students must have university studies, minimum of two years at the university, and a very good knowledge of Spanish." 

ICC:    "What type of students do you accept? What qualities do you look for or consider when deciding to accept a student?"

JC:    "Basically, what we look for in the students is their motivation to learn Spanish and to integrate within the Spanish culture. We usually have students, professionals, teachers, and diplomats, etc." 

ICC:    "Explain your teaching methodology." 

JC:    "Being  a Teacher Training Centre, we are always fully updated in all methodologies and teaching techniques. We are ready to use any methodology to fulfill our students´ needs. But, in general, it is the 
communicative approach that we use most as it has been proven to be the more efficient for most of the students. Our methodology includes flexibility and dinamism." 

ICC:    "Do you offer financial aid, scholarships or assistantships to help defray the costs of tuition, room and board? Academic scholarships? Dance scholarships?If so, what are the eligibility criteria?" 

JC:    "Unfortunately we can not offer any financial aid. But we know we are helping the students with our cheap prices. For what we offer, in the courses plus the activities, any student would pay at least 25% more in other schools. 

In the case of dance classes, we offer them for free in our activities program and if there are students who are really interested in this, they can have two more dance lessons a week for free as well." 

ICC:    "Ms. Lewis would like to thank Mr. Jose Antonio Ruiz Cantero for the interview." 

International Connections Consulting's President, Tasha Lewis, would like to thank Mr. Cantero and all of the staff at Sociedad Hispano Mundial for the material for this article and for their generous and thoughtful hospitality while she was in Granada, Spain in October.  If you would like to enroll or more information regarding any of their courses or Sociedad Hispano Mundial, please contact International Connections
Consulting

Testimonies from students.

These are only some testimonies from our students; but we have a long list for people who require it before making the decision to come to SHM. We provide their e-mail so that they can contact them.

"Sociedad Hispano Mundial is more than a school... it´s a family. The staff is very supportive and offer fun excursions outside of the classroom. The classes are excellent: the professors always teach according to the needs of the student, are flexible and very dedicated to the goals of each person. The teaching method is active and effective, the environment friendly... Come to SHM!"
Sarah Altschul
e-mail: saltschul@hotmail.com
"Sociedad Hispano Mundial has offered me a great environment in order to learn the language and experience the life and culture of Spain. The method of instruction is effective and intensive and also very enjoyable. The teachers are excellent and always aware of the needs of the students"
Patsy Bohlen
e-mail: bohlenpatsy@hotmail.com

“As a family we spent months researching all of the possible language schools, institutes and universities throughout the Spanish speaking world. We were looking for the best place to study the language in depth while at the same time enjoying a rich cultural experience with fun and interesting thing to do for our kids and us. No other school offered such a flexible and beneficial curriculum as Sociedad Hispano Mundial. Their total immersion program went way beyond our expectations. We found ourselves immersed not only in high quality instruction and authentic culture, but also in genuine hospitality and sincere warmth
and friendliness by the staff. Our  time with the people at Sociedad Hispano Mundial was easily the best experience our family has ever had"
Greg Davis
e-mail: greg_davis@bigfoot.com

“My experience at SHM opened so many doors to me it is incredible. I had the opportunity to not only learn Spanish, but also to be exposed to the rich culture and history of Granada. Through the staff, teachers and host family, I was made to feel confortable and at home. We studied and then applied those studies by participating in cultural events, it was a lot of fun! I believe that SHM had an incredible positive impact on my life and it changed the course of my life. I do miss My Granada!"
Wilfred M Cameron
e-mail: WCameron@compuserve.com


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FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY USES THE HANDS-ON APPROACH TO LEARNING

Everyone learns in a different way.  Some people can study for hours and obtain the grade while others require "hands-on learning" to reach their goal.  At Ferris  State University, they recognize the need for providing an education that emphasizes this method of teaching. 

Ferris State University (FSU) believes that College is an experience.  With a 98% placement rate-one of the best rates in the state of  Michigan, FSU will help their students achieve their desired goals.  If obtaining an education that will prepare you for success in the real world, then FSU is the school for you.    Their programs equip you with the skills and knowledge that you’ll need to succeed in a career. 

Ms. Sally L. Nicolai (SN), Coordinator of International Admissions for the Office of International Affairs at Ferris State University,  was only to happy to share what the "hands-on learning" experience is like with International Connections Consulting. 

ICC:    "What is your role at Ferris State University?  How long have you been at the school?" 

SN:     "I’m the Coordinator of International Admissions.  I have just completed my 27th year of employment at Ferris State University.  I have been with the Office of International Affairs for the past 12 years as both Manager and Admissions Coordinator" 

ICC:    "What in your opinion is the most compelling reason for a student to attend Ferris State University?  What makes Ferris State University unique?" 

SN:     "Ferris State University has a well-deserved reputation for providing high quality, distinctive educational programs.  These programs are offered through our Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, Business, Education, Michigan College of Optometry, Pharmacy and Technology.

The University works to meet the technology and work force demands of business and industry, the health care professions, and society in general through applied research and practical education.  Ferris teaches
technical skills and applications focused on solving real problems, and produces a work  force that is more hands-on than conceptual, more practical than theoretical,  and more active than contemplative." 

ICC:    "Explain some of the programs that you offer?  How does this enhance the learning experience for your students?  What types of courses do you offer?"

SN:     "Ferris offers over 100 curriculum unique undergraduate, (both two and 4 year), graduate and professional degrees through its' seven colleges.  We offer an accredited, multi-level Intensive English Program to enable us to provide  English language training  to students prior to their matriculation into a university curriculum. A couple of our very unique programs include Plastics  Engineering Technology - one of the few bachelor’s degrees available in the country and Professional Golf Management leading to a bachelor’s degree -the first program of it’s kind in the country. Of equal importance, Ferris offers curriculums such as Biotechnology, Nursing, Music Industry Management, Health Care Systems Management, Facilities Management,  Technical and Professional Communication, Television Production, Surveying Engineering and Rubber Engineering Technology just to name a few." 

ICC:    "What is your criteria for evaluating a student for acceptance? Age? Language proficiency?" 

SN:      "Ferris State University has an open admission policy.  In keeping with the University philosophy, Ferris is dedicated to educating the student who possesses the requisite capacity to learn.  The purpose of its educational programs is to prepare a student with the skills needed for a chosen occupation or profession and to help fulfill career objectives.  A 500 TOEFL score is required of all incoming international students whose native language is not English." 

ICC:    "Do you offer financial aid, scholarships, or assistantships to help defray the costs of tuition, room and board?  academic scholarships?  dance scholarships? If so, what is the eligibility criteria?" 

SN:     "Unfortunately, Ferris State University does not offer any type of financial aid for international students.  Assistantships are available through our graduate programs and room and board scholarships are available through the Honors Program.  On-campus employment is also available." 

ICC:    "We would like to thank Ms. Sally L. Nicolai for the interview". 

International Connections Consulting’s President, Tasha Lewis, would like to thank Ms. Sally L. Nicolai, Manager of the Office of  International Affairs at Ferris State University, and Mr. Paul Landen, Director, for supplying the material for this article.  If you would like to enroll or receive more information, please contact International Connections Consulting

Testimonal

I grew up in the beautiful East African country of Kenya, on a small farm. I was 24 when I came to the United States in January 1997, to join Ferris State University, where I'm majoring in Pharmacy. Prior to this, I had been working at home, after graduating from a junior college.

My stay in America has made me come to appreciate, so much, my family, my country and our culture. I do miss home very much .

On obtainnig my undergraduate degree, I plan on graduate studies and gaining some work experience; after which, I'm going back to Kenya to be of service to my community. I believe I'm very fortunate to have this opportunity to pursue my dream and want to give back to all the people at home, who've made it possible.
Njeri Kiarie


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COLLEGE OF THE ROCKIES IN CANADA GIVES YOU A HIGHER VIEW FOR LEARNING

The Canadian Rockies is a great place to "Live and Learn."   Offering countless recreational opportunities, the College of the Rockies combines popular year-round outdoor recreation with getting a high quality education while living in the spectacular Canadian Rockies. 

Celebrating 25 years of student success, the College of the Rockies (COTR) attributes this success to the constant commitment of their faculty and staff to their students.    In an environment that allows its students to play hard and work harder on their studies, COTR provides an experience that is well spent and enjoyable. 

Ms. Cheryl Webber (CW), International Advisor and Homestay Coordinator at the College of the Rockies, was able to give International Connections Consulting (ICC) an inside look at what life at COTR was like for potential students. 

ICC:    "What is your role at College of the Rockies?  How long have you been at the school?  (any other background information that you wish to provide)." 

CW:     "My role  at the College of  the Rockies is to take care of all the needs of  the international students.  I answer all inquiries from potential students and study abroad companies.  As well, I process international student admissions.  I am also the International Student Advisor and the Homestay 
Cordinator.  I also work very closely with the ESL Department, the Registration Department and with the Residence.  This arrangement is great for the students as they can contact me for all of  their needs.  Its one stop shopping for our international students!  I have worked in the International Department of  the College of  the Rockies since 1991." 

ICC:    "What in your opinion is the most compelling reason for a student to attend College of the Rockies?  What makes College of the Rockies unique?" 

CW:     "The College of  the Rockies is located in a very safe and friendly small town (population 20000) in the Rocky Mountains of Canada.  Our region offers many opportunities for outdoor activities.  We also have some of  the best uncrowded skiing and golf areas in the world.  One ski  resort is a 30 minute 
drive from the campus.  A second ski resort is a 75 minute drive.  Our campus is very clean and modern.  It is located beside a golf course and beside the Community Forest where students can hike, cross-country ski and mountain bike.  The College of  the Rockies offers a great variety of courses 
and programs considering its size.  We also have excellent access to computers and the internet.  In addition, our class sizes are quite small (average about 20 students) and the instructors are very dedicated to helping each student.  All in all students get a personalized, quality education in a very beautiful and unique setting." 

ICC:     "Explain some of the programs that you offer?  How does this enhance the learning experience for your students?  What types of courses do you offer?" 

CW:     "We offer English Language Training that ladders into our adult high school and university transfer programs.  We also offer one year Certificate and two year diploma programs as well as Associate Degrees.  Some Certificate and Diploma Programs offered are: Business Administration, Applied Business Technology, Leisure and Recreation Services Management, Physical Education.  These programs plus University Studies and high school

completion are open to international students and no TOEFL score is required. Although they may need to take ESL with these programs depending on an English assessment.  Other programs such as Tourism, New Media Communications and Mountain activities skills training require completion of our ESL program or TOEFL 550 plus specific program requirements." 

ICC:     "What is your criteria for evaluating a student for acceptance? Age? Language proficiency?" 

CW:      "The Minimum age is 17.  Some programs require completion of high school in the student’s home country." 

ICC:    "What type of student do you accept?  What qualities do you look for or consider when deciding to accept a student?" 

CW:      "Our philosophy is to not put too much emphasis on the student’s background. We would rather have the student join us and try different courses to find out what each student is capable of doing." 

ICC:    "Explain your teaching methodology." 

CW:      "Our classes are small and we use a lot of group work and class participation/discussion in our classroom ESL  students receive plenty of speaking opportunities, even in Grammar and Reading classes.  Our instructors are often available for individual student assistance."

ICC:    "Do you offer financial aid, scholarships, or assistanceships to help defray the costs of tuition, room and board? academic scholarships?  dance scholarships?  If so, what is the eligibility criteria?" 

CW:     "We do not offer any scholarships for international students."

ICC:    "We would like to thank Ms. Cheryl Webber for the interview." 

International Connections Consulting’s President, Tasha Lewis, would like to thank Ms. Cheryl Webber, International Student Advisor and the Homestay Coordinator, for providing us with the information for the article.  If you would like to enroll or more informaton on the College of the Rockies, please contact International Connections Consulting.

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WHAT'S YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION?

TO TRAVEL THE WORLD?
TO LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE?
TO LOSE WEIGHT?

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INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING WITH US?  WANT YOUR AD TO RUN FOR 3, 6, OR EVEN 12 MONTHS?  TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS GREAT OFFER NOW AND YOU WILL RECEIVE 1 MONTH'S

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A Note from the President
By Tasha Lewis

Over the next year, International Connections Consulting (ICC) will be working with various Editorial Consultants (including Publishers, Education Professionals, Entrepreneurs, Undergraduate/Graduate students, and a list of other professionals) with a wide background of expertise in order to give our newsletter a global and innovative approach to appeal to our audience.

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