This article focuses on the design and implementation of a new course in Latin American Studies that sought to integrate traditional elements of undergraduate education with a more progressive pedagogical approach stressing experiential applications of classroom education. Civic engagement seemed particularly well suited to the course because of the growing local Latino populations. Although students read of the experiences of individuals depicted in a variety texts, including Hector Tobar's "The Tattooed Soldier" and Sam Quinones's "True Tales From Another Mexico," their engagement in surrounding neighborhoods helped to clarify and deepen their understanding through direct and regular contact with Latino/Hispanic communities. (Contains 10 footnotes.)