MeXsu, the Centre for Mexico - Southampton Collaboration at the University of Southampton - was created by Clare Mar-Molinero, Professor of Spanish in the Department of Modern Languages to draw Southampton's attention to this fascinating country. "I want to put Mexico on the agenda for people in the city, highlighting what it has to offer, and dispelling some of the negative stereotypes associated with it. Our aim is to promote and foster links between the University and Mexico, encouraging student and staff exchange visits and inspiring joint research projects," she says.
Modern Languages staff at Southampton encourage students to spend time studying or working in Mexico. A ‘Year Abroad' in the country enables them to perfect their command of the language and learn about its culture. "While Mexico is a long way from home, we find every student who chooses to live there for a year finds the experience both rewarding and enjoyable," adds Clare. Mexican students also cross the Atlantic to study at Southampton; many Mexican university teachers of English are enrolled on Southampton's innovative online MA in English Language Teaching.
MeXsu hosts a week of events every year to promote culture and society from Mexico. They range from mariachi bands to classical music and dance with modern film, drama and talks at arts venues including the Turner Sims Concert Hall, Nuffield Theatre, Phoenix Film Society and Harbour Lights Picture House. The Anglo Mexican Foundation in Mexico City helped to secure some of the Mexican artists. In 2012, Mexico Week was officially launched by Mexico's Ambassador to the UK, Eduardo Medina-Mora Icaza.