Walking through the streets of Guanajuato, one experiences some of the most iconic parts of Mexican culture: mariachis performing in the jardín and families enjoying fresh churros. With a new Phoenix College (PC) study abroad program, these cultural experiences are possible for PC students and community members in an educational format.
“Mexico is not just a neighboring country, but a vibrant partner, culturally, economically, and historically,” says Dr. Trino Sandoval, Phoenix College Spanish faculty member for over 30 years. “For those with Hispanic heritage, studying abroad is a unique chance to connect with traditions and communities that may have been part of their family’s past but not their day-to-day lives.”
Language Learning, Local Culture and Global Perspectives
From June 5–26, 2026, Dr. Sandoval and Dr. Rose French, a Phoenix College Music faculty member, will lead students through three weeks of cultural and language immersion at some of the most recognizable sites in Mexico City before traveling to the City of Guanajuato, a UNESCO World Heritage City. Designed to deepen students’ understanding of the Spanish language and Mexico’s rich musical heritage, while providing daily opportunities to engage with local culture, broaden global perspectives, and enhance intercultural competence, the program is for language learners, music enthusiasts, or curious travelers.
Having been involved in previous study abroad programs in Guanajuato, Dr. Sandoval is thrilled to make the study abroad experience available again.
“When PC hired me, I prioritized creating opportunities for students to engage with the Spanish language and culture beyond the classroom. I began organizing study abroad experiences and saw how transformative they are. In today’s globalized world, students need to think internationally. We live close to the U.S.-Mexico border, and many of our students will work, collaborate, or live alongside people from our neighbor to the south and other diverse backgrounds. Learning to be good neighbors, understanding cultural perspectives, and exploring shared histories are crucial skills for personal and professional success.”
History of Mexican Music
Dr. French, a musician who has toured the world as a French Horn player, spent her recent sabbatical in Mexico studying Mexican music in traditional settings, which led to the development of a new course, The History of Mexican Music, for the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD).
French explains: “I want to create opportunities that reflect our students, community, and the cultural heritage they share. I’m thrilled for students to experience the history and beauty of Mexico City and the immersion of living in Guanajuato, one of my favorite cities I’ve ever visited.”
In addition to teaching music, Dr. French served as co-director of the Mexico Faculty Development Program for the last three years.
“The City of Guanajuato has a special place in the hearts of many Maricopan faculty,” says French. “For over 15 years, the Mexico Faculty Development Program has facilitated the opportunity for MCCCD faculty to collaborate with Universidad de Guanajuato professors in various disciplines, be immersed in Mexican culture while staying with host families, and visit over 25 UNESCO world heritage sites.”
Those faculty experiences have informed the development of the new Guanajuato study abroad program for students and community members.
Mexico City and Guanajuato
Study abroad program participants will arrive in Mexico City and visit the Teotihuacan ruins, Chapultepec Park, the National Museum of Anthropology, and Garibaldi Plaza before traveling to Guanajuato. Homestays in the city center with Guanajuato families allow students to practice Spanish and facilitate a short walk to the Universidad de Guanajuato, where Dr. Sandoval and Dr. French teach the Spanish and History of Mexican Music classes.
Yet, Dr. Sandoval is most excited for students to experience the everyday richness of Mexican culture by walking through bustling markets, speaking Spanish with locals, eating regional foods, and understanding the rhythms of life outside the U.S. “I want students to gain confidence in their language skills, but also to develop empathy, adaptability, and a broader worldview. Ultimately, I want students to return home transformed, not just in how they speak Spanish, but in how they see the world and their role in it.”
Important dates:
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
- Program Fee Due (excluding tuition): March 21, 2026
- Mandatory Orientation: Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 9 am to 1 pm
During International Education Week, November 17 - 21, 2025, two info sessions about the Guanajuato study abroad program are available:
- November 18 | 12 - 1 pm | In-Person: Phoenix College Student Union
- November 19 | 5:30 - 6:30 pm | Virtually: Google Meet.
See the Mexico Study Abroad website for scholarship opportunities, program cost, application and letter of recommendation forms, and dates and deadlines.