Rachael Katsonis has been president of the Spanish Speaking Club for one semester.

What is the Spanish Speaking Club all about?

The club focuses on aspects of the culture and language that Spanish classes don’t focus on.

When did it start?

Last semester I started the club after being encouraged by my Spanish professor Don Factor here at El Camino.

What kind of activities does your club offer?

In the club we teach salsa dancing, and we will be going to a Spanish concert. It would be nice to hear the Spanish music sung live. These activities we tend to ignore since we don’t speak the language; being the president of the Spanish Speaking Club, I want people to learn about a different culture and maybe pick up a few words. We also try out different Spanish foods.

Why did you feel the need to establish the club?

I am involved with Alpha Gamma Sigma, and I am also part of the German Club. I felt the need to start a Spanish club because there is so much one can learn from the Spanish culture.

When is your first meeting going to take place this semester?

The first meeting is going to take place on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in Communications Building, Room 306, and every other Thursday from then on.

Has your club expanded since it was brought into existence?

From the very beginning the club had twenty-some students on the first meeting. This was really amazing because I wasn’t expecting such a great turnout. Two faculty advisers passed the word around in their Spanish classes.

How can non-Spanish-speaking students benifit from joining the club?

Non-Spanish-speaking students can learn about Spanish culture. English is spoken during our meetings.

To get the word out about your club and have non-Spanish-speaking students join, what would you say to attract them into joining?

It’s a fun-loving environment, everyone is accepting, and it’s not necessary for you to speak Spanish to join the club. It’s all about learning about a different culture and learning about Spanish speaking countries.