Study Abroad in Spain

Studying abroad was a great way to learn how to adapt to a new place, become independent, and make new friends. It taught me so much about myself and helped me decide that living and working internationally was possible. I highly recommend the experience because you learn more when you are out of your comfort zone.

I'm hard pressed to think of a better program than the UCEAP program at the University of Barcelona. Like many other students in Europe, I could have traveled every weekend and visited all corners of the continent. Instead, I spent most weekends in Barcelona, sitting in cafes, studying at the library, or shopping with friends. Above all, I reveled in the moments of connection that I felt with the people of Barcelona, especially the way that their eyes would light up when I spoke Catalan to them. “Parles català molt bé!” they might say. I’d reply with a simple, “Merci,” and just smile, knowing that I had participated in a program that gave me a piece of living culture and a language that I still carry with me today.

Studying abroad isn't always excitement and fun; there will be challenging moments and tears, but that's okay. Cherish every moment because this is the only opportunity you will have to be a college student studying in another country!

Studying abroad and living in Spain wasn't always roses, and I've loved it more than I can say. I fell head over heels for Madrid even as I struggled to navigate Spanish doors with their multiple bolts and unfamiliarly shaped keys. I got lost using both Google and Apple Maps, and yet this city has my heart.

Completing my internship validated all that I learned as a linguistics major and motivated me to work harder in school. This real-life scenario with real consequences opened my eyes to the value of being punctual and managing my time in a way that helps me feel prepared for every facet of my day. I know it will be a challenge to adapt to work culture at my future jobs, but this internship prepared me for that by giving me the confidence and patience to improve my craft one day at a time.

During my internship, I was able to help my students obtain higher levels of fluency and conversational skills. And in turn, my students gave me a new understanding of Spanish culture, making my time in Spain that much more meaningful and significant. 

Living in a new country has challenged me in so many ways, and each challenge made me stronger. I'm so grateful for this semester abroad.

I knew I wanted to study abroad in Barcelona before I even started college. It's clear that the UCEAP structure offers a uniquely immersive experience that allows students to quickly become part of the city's daily rhythms. One of my friends joked that my study abroad experience checked all the boxes, and it's hard to argue. I downed calçots, danced in correfoc sparks at local festivals, saw Leo Messi score at Camp Nou, watched New Year's fireworks light up the Acropolis, and shook hands with the Catalan president at a book signing. It's impossible not to think back on the year as the most important time in my life, and I am grateful for it every day.

Study abroad teaches you to be independent because you can't fall back on your regular support system. This means you will learn to trust yourself and maintain a determined attitude, even when you feel like quitting. Experience and confidence in dealing with the uncomfortable will guide you through future problems.

While studying abroad involves loads of paperwork and deadlines, which are especially challenging when juggling other responsibilities, you're not alone in this process. The UC system offers comprehensive support, from scholarships to financial aid teams to UCEAP advisors, making this the perfect time to pursue your dream of studying abroad!

I was the only one out of my friend group to do an entire year abroad. This meant I had two transitional periods—the first when I arrived with lots of friends, and the second when I returned alone. While it's comfortable to be with friends from home when you study abroad, one must take advantage of all the interesting and amazing people abroad too.

Studying at Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M) has been a fascinating cultural and linguistic learning experience for which I am thankful. I chose UC3M for its location near Madrid, which allowed me to spend my free time exploring museums, parks, and landmarks in the city. UC3M is undoubtedly a global campus, and it feels like a university proud of its diverse student body. I enjoyed meeting Spaniards and international students from around the world. I will remember the campus, with its charming brick buildings and almond blossoms, with fondness.

Studying at University Carlos III of Madrid for a year allowed me to have a completely different academic experience each semester. My fall semester was a Hispanic studies program aimed at international students. In the spring, I'm doing an immersion and almost all my classmates are Spaniards (although I have the opportunity to take classes in English). I love that! All the professors are friendly, which is something new for me since my university classes at home are so big they barely get to know your name. They are also very passionate about their courses which makes it very interesting and enjoyable.

As I finish my year abroad and reflect on this journey, it still amazes me that I had the opportunity to be here. As a first-gen, I made sure to make the best of it every day. I have become more independent and self-aware. I'm more outgoing and better prepared to apply to graduate school. This experience reminds me to keep pushing myself to learn and take advantage of amazing opportunities. Thank you for believing in me and for supporting this Latina's dream of meeting the world through education.