Spanish has become so prevalent in the United States that it is often considered the fourth largest Spanish-speaking country in the world behind Mexico, Colombia and Spain.

According the U.S. Census, the country’s Hispanic population is estimated at 41.3 million. By 2050, it is estimated that this number will grow to 102.6 million, which will then represent 24 percent of the total U.S. population.

In addition, learning Spanish affords countless benefits, such as economic, academic, cultural and personal interests, including travel. The Community Enrichment Department of Continuing Education Division at Sandhills Community College is offering “Spanish — Beginning Conversation,” which includes Spanish fundamentals and conversation, as well as the culture of Spanish-speaking countries.

The instructor is a native of Madrid, Spain, and studied languages at the Berlitz School. The class meets Mondays and Wednesdays, Sept. 20 through Oct. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. The course fee is $65 plus the required textbook.

There is no fee waiver for community enrichment classes. Register for classes at least one week prior to the starting date. Classes may fill and prohibit further enrollment or they may be canceled if enrollment is low. Walk-in registration is at the Continuing Education office located on the first floor of Van Dusen Hall during the college’s scheduled hours of operation.

Call (910) 695-3980 to register with a credit card.

View the entire fall semester schedule at www.sandhills.edu. The site also has a calendar that contains every continuing education class on the start date and full information about all classes.