To the Editor:
I was disturbed to read your recent article "Language Programs in Decline," [July 31] describing students' declining interest in studying abroad in Dartmouth language programs. In 1992, I attended a Spanish LSA in Queretaro, Mexico, along with seven other Dartmouth students, and the experience changed my life. What had been merely a passing interest in Latin American and Hispanic culture became a far deeper interest. I became essentially fluent in Spanish and made friendships that still endure to this day, both among program participants and Mexicans.
My only regret from my four years at Dartmouth is that I did not take advantage of Dartmouth's abroad programs a second time. I would have loved to have spent an additional term abroad, learning another Romance language like French or Portuguese.
I am firmly convinced that Dartmouth's abroad programs, within the uniquely flexible (although sometimes infuriating) D-plan make Dartmouth the best college to receive a liberal arts education in the country, and probably the world. Carpe diem, folks!
