Program: Spain Semester

Major: Political Science and Hispanic Studies

Minor: Latino/Latin American Studies

Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you decide on this program?

I chose to study and intern abroad because I wanted to learn more about the Spanish culture, such as the language, food, and traditional music. I decided on this program because as a native Spanish speaker, I wanted to know the differences between Latin American Spanish and Peninsular Spanish.

Briefly describe a specific cultural experience you had on your program that made a lasting impression.

One of the experiences I had when I was on the program that made a lasting impression was the time when my host family invited me to join them on their yearly trip with the whole family. It was and is something that I will always take to heart because I will never get this same experience anywhere, and it showed me how important family is in Spain.

Describe your overall study abroad experience.

I really enjoyed my study and internship abroad experience. I was able to travel independently throughout southern Spain and I got to absorb as much as I could for my own experience. I also connected with my host family one-on-one, and I got to talk to and build friendships with locals.

Based on your experiences abroad, what are some of the benefits of spending a semester abroad? How has studying abroad contributed to your personal, academic, and professional development?

Some benefits of spending a semester abroad would be that you have time to create and develop friendships and relationships along the way, as well as being able to travel around Europe and nearby countries. I was able to grow throughout those 4 months as a student, intern, and person overall. My studying abroad experience helped me learn more about what the country and world has to teach us humans. My internship also allowed me to take a step closer to what I want to be or do after graduation.

What advice can you offer for CSB+SJU students who are considering or planning to study abroad?

Be open minded to those opportunities that come from anything and everything, you never know what will come your way!