The resident director normally teaches one section of Spanish language or literature. The teachers of courses taught in Spanish, however, are residents of Zaragoza. The teachers are not only masters of their fields, but also devoted to SYA and skilled at working with American teenagers whose Spanish is always shaky at first. Many have also taken swimming, judo, tennis, riding, karate, track, weightlifting, aerobics, and classical, jazz or folk dancing, such as jotas, sevillanas and flamenco. In recent years students have also become involved in such activities as orchestra, instrumental lessons, drawing, painting, ceramics, sewing, chess, Amnesty International, teaching English and social service.
Individual initiative is the key to finding satisfying extracurricular pursuits.
SYA sets aside funds to help pay membership dues for most clubs and sports. The one-day excursions in the fall and the longer trips in the winter and spring are considered an important part of the school program and are therefore required of all students. Travel expenses are included in the tuition. During Christmas vacation or the days of vacation following the spring trip, students may remain with their host families or travel independently if they have made detailed plans and secured proper permission.