In many schools, language is a required credit. For many, this is a cumbersome, inconsequential requirement which they suffer through with no real benefits. For others, however, this is an opportunity to actually learn the language and experience something others only hear about.

Every other year, the advanced Spanish classes have the opportunity to take a trip to a Spanish speaking country. This year, the group is traveling to Ecuador. Many students enrolled in Spanish 2, 3, 4, and 5 are setting out on this unique endeavor over spring break and the week following. With 16 students signed up, the trip will take place will take place from March 14-27.

The anticipation is already building, however, and many have high expectations about what this trip will mean.

“I hope that it opens students’ minds to different ways of life but also gives them a greater appreciation of their own culture,” Spanish teacher Katie Marten said. “Students don’t always realize the little things we take for granted on a daily basis until they travel somewhere out of the country.”

BHS graduate Duncan Murray participated in the Spanish trip to Panama in his senior year, and believes that it influenced his life skills.

“I definitely gained resourcefulness on the trip,” Murray said, “It’s helped me while working and trying to communicate well with other employees.”

Many students at BHS are anticipating this experience, even some only in their second year of Spanish.

“I am excited to be going to Ecuador and learning more about their culture,” Sophomore Riley Russell said. “I’m the youngest one going, so I’m a bit nervous, but mostly excited.

Not only does this adventure improve communication in English and Spanish, it is an eye opening journey for many.

“The most impactful part of the trip was probably the homestay,” Murray said. “They didn’t speak a lick of English and I had to have conversations with them. I have more respect now for the way Hispanic people live and their culture.”

In many ways, the Spanish trip improves skills beyond simply language, and will be an amazing experience once again this year.

“Besides enhancing their skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening) in Spanish, they learn a lot of independence,” Marten said. “They have to use the language to communicate with their host families and get by at school. Students are also able to make a connection between the culture and the language that can’t be made in my classroom in Baldwin City, Kansas.”

Though the trip is still months away, the students and administrators are already anticipating another spectacular adventure.