As one of the most common destinations in the world for study abroad, Spain has many options. When choosing a program that suits your preferences, do not settle! Do your research. Find the city you want to experience and search for programs within that area. Ask your school’s study-abroad advisor for ways in which your college or university can help mold a program that meets your needs. Look on GoAbroad.com for private study-abroad organizations that might offer programs your university doesn’t, and can help arrange to get your credits transferred. Often these are the best bets for finding the perfect program for you. Study abroad is an investment, and like any big investment, it will affect you for the rest of your life. Make sure you are doing exactly what you want!
So You’re Going To Study Abroad In Spain. Brush up on your common phrases in español. Studying in Spain is a dream for Spanish language majors, as it’s very easy to be immersed completely in the language. However, Spain also hosts a wide variety of programs for people in all majors, and with all levels of Spanish-speaking skills. Many Spaniards have English-speaking abilities, especially in larger cities with higher tourist populations.
The best advice to hold true during your time in Spain is to relax. Yes, you’re in a foreign country, thousands of miles away from home, where people speak a language you might only half comprehend (in accents that you definitely won’t understand), but you need to remember what the Spaniards say: la vida es muy bella. Life is very beautiful. Spaniards view time as something to embrace, rather than something to worry about. They enjoy eating their tapas and sipping their sangria slowly after an afternoon siesta. Taking time to embrace life is one of the most important aspects of Spanish society.
However, it is important to remember that you will only be studying in Spain for a short amount of time, and you need to take advantage of your new location in the world. Travel within Spain is very affordable. It is a good idea to research the places you’d like to see beforehand to make planning easier once you arrive. The toughest part will be narrowing down which places to visit! Spain has a mix of everything: big, exciting cities, small, historic villages, stunning mountain ranges, and breathtaking beaches. Try to see as much as possible.
It is also wise to take advantage of the spot within Europe where you will be located. Portugal, France, and even Northern Africa are only a short plane, bus, or boat ride away. Travel within Europe is relatively inexpensive and is absolutely an opportunity worth seizing.
Studying abroad is a huge step in a student’s life. It challenges you and changes your world forever. Taking that step in Spain, a country with a vibrant and storied culture, is a step in the right direction. Spain will embrace you, challenge you, and make you look at life from a completely different viewpoint. Studying abroad in Spain will show you what you’ve been missing out on. It is a decision you will never regret.