New class to study international cuisine
Course to focus on culture in Spain, France
By Monique Bhimani
Staff Reporter

Imagine a class that takes place in various markets throughout France and Spain, in which students are required to sample local cuisine.

“Each (country) is unique and each culture has a different food relationship,” said Lyn Dart, assistant nutrition professor. “(Food is) like a celebration of what they do.”

The class is one of the new programs being added to the two dozen courses TCU’s study abroad program will offer this summer.

Dart said those interested in her nutrition study abroad course have to have an interest in culture, food and diversity. She said many students have expressed interest in the program, including those who are not nutrition majors.

“I really want to make this (available) for any student,” Dart said. “They don’t have to have the skills, just the desire to do it. There’s something here for everybody.”

Stephanie Loken, a senior food management major, said one reason she wants to participate in the study abroad program is that she has always wanted to go to Europe.

“I love food, and I love cooking,” Loken said. “You really have to have a passion for food. I would recommend it to others as long as they don’t take my spot.”

Loken said she had the option to take business classes in London for her minor but she thought the nutrition class in France and Spain sounds more interesting.

“Dr. Dart is an amazing professor,” Loken said. “It’s going to be an amazing experience.”

Luis Canales, director of international education the study abroad program, has close to 40 faculty members teaching in the summer, and their recruitment efforts are unmatched.

Last month, the Institute of International Education ranked TCU seventh in the percentage of undergraduates studying abroad among doctoral institutions. TCU ranked 13th for the actual number of students studying abroad. Canales said he attributes the hard work of the faculty and staff with the program’s high national ranking.

“(The faculty) put together close to 24 study abroad programs each summer and spend countless hours recruiting students,” Canales said. “Without their dedication and hard work, study abroad would not be what it is at TCU.”