Communication is vital in the professional world, and the Covid-19 pandemic has pushed millions of individuals out of their jobs. Knowing a second language can be an added asset in the hunt for employment, and it can open other doors in different disciplines or locations. 

Spanish is usually thought of as a second language in the United States, but for more than 37 million individuals it is their native language. 

 Governors State University is offering “Introduction to Spanish for Professionals” for the first time this semester. 

“The plan is to have this class offer every Fall,” says Prof. Novia Pagone.  “This class is a level 1A introduction mixed with (level) 1 and 2, but accelerated for students that have a basic level of Spanish but want to learn how to communicate in the healthcare, business or academic settings.”  

Sophomores and higher status can take the course. Native speakers will need to obtain faculty permission to begin their formal Spanish speaking classes. 

The class consists of using blackboard and voice thread; the tools needed to succeed will be provided in Blackboard.  Students are able to have one on one connection with the professor, and the class size is about 10 students. Unfortunately, students will have to register for next Fall2021 due to the class being offered once a year.