How are foreign language & Spanish classes @ Yale?

tugtraveller
Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:16:35 +0000

What can a new Yale frosh expect as far as foreign language classes go? I’ve read the Yale website and understand the language requirements (3 semesters, 2 or 1 depending upon on-site Yale placement test results). My question is more about what to expect in the classroom.

Unfortunately, the high school Spanish classes were awful. Probably the worst department in the school. Didn’t really focus on conversation, but rather rote memorization of vocabulary you would never use (valise) and an ungodly emphasis on spelling every word perfectly.

What awaits at Yale? More of the same, or is there more focus on conversation? Do Yalies enjoy their language classes, or is just one of those things you have to get get through?

Thanks.