In alignment with this year’s University College Day theme, “Rams Inspire,” students from Texas Wesleyan University’s Spanish program delivered a presentation showcasing their linguistic proficiency and analytical engagement with Hispanic literature. 

Titled “Puro cuento: la psicología humana en el relato hispánico,” the project was developed by students in Dr. Amy Bell’s SPN4303 Short Story course. Drawing from the anthology El cuento: arte y análisis by Edward H. Friedman, the group examined the psychological dimensions of four short stories, focusing on themes such as manipulation, guilt, abandonment, repulsion, and emotional repression. 

Working collaboratively, students interpreted short narratives by Ana María Matute, Mercedes Ballesteros, Julieta Pinto, and Silvina Ocampo, analyzing character behavior and plot development as a means of revealing authorial intent. 

Presented entirely in Spanish, the project reflected key values of the RAMily: courage, as many students overcame nerves to present before an audience; commitment, shown through their preparation and teamwork; connection, evident in their collaboration throughout the project; and compassion, demonstrated through their thoughtful engagement with the characters and themes of the stories. Together, the students demonstrated that Rams, indeed, inspire. 

Congratulations to these Rams and to all presenters who took part in University College Day.