We merge the 20Hispanic countries with our communities here in Virginia The Spanish language is a vehicle for studying all aspects of life as we live and experience immersion. Here are the faculty of the 2004 Academy 1 Director (and teacher) 1 Lead Teacher and 4 other teachers 1 Lead Resident Assistant and 5 other assistants A ratio of 1 to 12! (faculty to student). Students live together with a roommate and eat every meal together each day. Students interact and learn with teachers in class and in journal writings. With resident assistants, students participate in conversation hours. Students also enhance their language skills in activities such as the Dating Game or the Model European Union (research and debate). But we also express ourselves in creative ways such as dancing at a Costume Ball and playing games at the Festival of San Fermín. And with unity and a fiery spirit we participated in the first annual Olympics.and won! And although all of the aforesaid activities are meaningful, friendship is what will bind these students together for years to come.