We began our day at the University of Guanajuato by visiting with Maestra Valeria Romero who provided us with an overview of Guanajuato as well as the University. The city was founded in the 16th century and is now classified as a World Heritage site. Each year, in October, it holds the world-renown Cervantes Arts Festival.
The University has five separate campuses distributed throughout the Guanajuato region; there are approximately 30,000 students and has 173 academic programs. Among Mexican institutions with over 1,000 scientific publications, the University has the highest rate of international collaboration.
The University has five separate campuses distributed throughout the Guanajuato region; there are approximately 30,000 students and has 173 academic programs. Among Mexican institutions with over 1,000 scientific publications, the University has the highest rate of international collaboration.
In addition, Bob took us to the library of the University where we were shown (and got to handle) some of the oldest books in region, including the Philosophy of St. Thomas Aquinas printed in 1495 and a bible in Chinese that was printed on rice paper. With our gloves on, we got to explore many of these texts and ask questions about them. | After our introduction, Bob took us on a tour of the University. We had the opportunity to visit the "inner chamber" where their governing body meets on a regular basis to determine the direction of the University (much like our Board of Trustees). |
Next, we went back to the University and met with students enrolled in the Language Program, many of them planning on becoming teachers of either English or Spanish. They were wonderful! For two hours, we discussed such issues as life in both countries, perceptions we have based on media and TV, what we do outside of school, etc. It was great to see the University of Guanajuato students speaking in English and Penn State University students using what Spanish they know. Afterwards we shared lunch together out in the courtyard. After lunch, we spent some time in different classes at the University, and even Melissa, Katie and Gail actually got to participate in the class. Afterwards we headed back to the hotel and Sam provided us with a history of Mexico and its importance to the US as well as some additional information about the Guanajuato region and the University. We went over the itinerary in detail to plan for the rest of the week and then went into town for a tour of the different shops and eventually dinner (we were very hungry after all that walking!!). It was a great first day! |