SAMPLES OF COURSEWORK
This section highlights my language proficiency and understanding of business concepts through a range of written work spanning historical, cultural, and contemporary topics in the Spanish-speaking world. Across these pieces, I apply both linguistic accuracy and critical analysis to explore complex themes from political conflict and identity to social inequality and global issues. Together, these samples reflect not only my ability to communicate effectively in Spanish but also to engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives and real-world contexts.
Linguistic Proficiency
Personal Background and the Complex Motivations of the Spanish Civil War:
This paper analyzes how individual backgrounds, beliefs, and social identities influenced participation in the Spanish Civil War. Through examples from Línea de fuego and historical sources, it explores how political ideology, religion, and personal circumstances shaped the motivations of soldiers, journalists, and civilians involved in the conflict.
ETA and the Manipulation of Fear in Modern Spain:
This paper examines how the Basque separatist group ETA used violence and terrorism to create fear and influence Spanish society and politics. Through historical examples and literary analysis from El Mal de Corcira, the essay explores how ETA’s actions blurred the line between ordinary life and political violence, creating an atmosphere of paranoia, distrust, and social instability across Spain.
Culture/Literature Competency
Perspective and Social Inequality: From La Celestina to the Modern Student Debt Crisis:
This paper connects the literary concept of perspectivism in Fernando de Rojas’ La Celestina with the modern issue of student loan debt in the United States. By analyzing how social class, gender, and economic systems shape individual opportunities, the essay explores how structural inequalities influence both the decisions of literary characters and the real-life experiences of students facing financial barriers to education.
The Reconquista: Spain’s Struggle for Identity:
This paper examines the Reconquista as a long historical process that shaped Spain’s political, religious, and cultural identity. By tracing major battles, historical figures, and turning points from Covadonga to Granada, the essay shows how military conflict, religious unity, and territorial expansion helped define the foundations of modern Spain.
Business Competency
Ulta Beauty in Japan: Country, Regional, and FDI Market Analysis:
This research paper evaluates the feasibility of Ulta Beauty expanding into Japan through foreign direct investment as part of a “what-if” international market entry scenario. By analyzing Japan’s demographic, economic, cultural, political, and investment environment, the project shows how market research, global business strategy, and country risk analysis can be applied to assess whether a U.S. beauty retailer could successfully enter and grow in a new international market.
The Economist Review - The 2025 U.S. Tariffs and Their Global Impact:
This paper analyzes the economic implications of the 2025 U.S. tariffs using insights from The Economist. It evaluates how tariffs affect American companies and consumers, create new manufacturing opportunities for countries like Mexico, and contribute to a broader realignment of global supply chains that may weaken China’s manufacturing dominance.