SiS Newsletter - May 2010 - I. L.: Fátima Serra

Fátima Serra

Dr. Serra came to the United States as an International student to UMASS Amherst as a member of the cultural exchange between the University of Oviedo and UMASS. What started as a year abroad experience before committing to a life-time job in Spain, turned into a life-changing experience.

Upon the completion of her doctoral dissertation in Hispanic Literatures in 1996, she joined the Foreign Languages Department at Salem State where she is a Professor of Spanish Language and Literature.

Dr. Serra coordinated a summer study abroad program in Oviedo, her alma matter for the last 10 years. She views the international experience as a vital component of her professional and personal life. In the same spirit, she joined the CIE at Salem State as study abroad advisor in 2004. She loves the opportunity of helping students embark in the advantages of an international education.

When was the last time you have been to Spain?
My last in Spain was in January 2010

What do you enjoy most about Spain?
Social life, friendly people and beautiful surroundings are the most enjoyable aspect of the country. No matter the time of the day or the evening you can gather with other people of all ages in public place; strangers you never met are friendly and inclusive. And all this social interaction takes place amidst spectacular historical and architectural settings.

What do you think are the advantages of Spain as a destination for American students?
Definitely the topics mentioned above. The friendliness of the Spaniards makes it easy for American students to practice the language and get immersed in the culture right away. The physical and geographical space, gives them an awareness of the history of the old continent and the relationship to their own.

Could you describe the Study Abroad programs your university has with Spain?
We have a close relationship with the Universidad de Oviedo. Every year a group of our students do summer language courses in Oviedo. We also have some semester students attending their university.
Also, we have a significant number of students who choose different destinations in Spain through American study abroad program providers that have liaison with Spanish institutions. The most popular destinations are Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla. Among the institutions our students have attended through providers are: Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Suffolk University, Universidad Pablo de Olavide.

How satisfied are, in general, American students going to Spain?
All our students without exception have had the best time of their lives in Spain. I have been involved with students going abroad to Spain for over ten years and we have not had any unhappy returning student. They love the Spaniards, the life style, the culture the scenery and their professors.