Kimberly Rivera
Editor-In-Chief
The Bilingual Education Student Organization (BESO) hosts its first members’ meeting for the spring semester at 5:30 p.m. on Feb.16 in room 353 at the Madla Building. Current, new, and interested members will get a chance to learn more about the organization and play a game of traditional Mexican bingo, or Loteria.
BESO provides members with opportunities to network at conferences, such as the annual Texas Association of Bilingual Education conference, and give back to the community through volunteering, at events such as Noche Cultural at Esparza Elementary last fall. BESO also hosts fundraisers and book drives.
The organization began in Fall 2011. According to their Facebook page, their mission is to provide information, assistance, scholarships, and fellowship for students who are interested in Bicultural and Bilingual Studies and to encourage awareness for Bilingual Education among all students, faculty, and the community.
Spring 2016 marks a busy semester for BESO. The organization plans on donating at least 60 bilingual books across three local elementary schools. With so much activity, new members will help the organization fulfill its task to bring awareness to the community.
Karla Araiza, president of BESO, said the organization expected only a few members to sign up during Club Rush on Feb. 2 since many students signed up in the fall, but are excited to receive applications from 20 more students.
The organization welcomes students from all majors and non-Spanish speaking students.
At their first meeting for the semester, BESO will give new members an opportunity to meet other members and learn what the organization offers. Those who wish to join need to fill out an application and submit a $35 annual fee.
Refreshments and snacks will be provided along with a chance to win small prizes during a game of Loteria.
