The Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures is now offering Spanish classes designed for heritage speakers - those who grew up with the language. 

Heritage Spanish speakers can choose from two course offerings in fall 2025: Spanish for Heritage Speakers and US Latino/a/x Cultures. 

Spanish for Heritage Speakers will help students enhance their reading and writing abilities with a focus on intuitive grammar while exploring linguistic identity and stylistic variation. Traditional language classes do not address these topics.

“With this track, our goal is to create a space for Spanish-speaking and Latino students who grew up with Spanish in their homes and communities — often through strong oral exposure from a young age,” said Lara Boyero Agudo, assistant professor of Spanish. “These students have unique linguistic needs that should be addressed through specialized pedagogies and methodologies.” 

US Latino/a/x/ Cultures explores cultural identities through comics, documentaries and popular traditions. The discussion-based course allows students to engage in in-depth conversations about personal identity, politics, culture and history. 

“Ultimately, this track is about affirming identity, fostering community and strengthening the Spanish our students already bring with them,” Boyero said.