What inspired you to travel abroad?
I really wanted to improve my Spanish speaking skills and travel abroad to have experienced studying abroad.
Why did you choose Linguistic Horizons?
I was yearning for a Spanish speaking experience, not specifically in South America or Spain, or anywhere, and I was surprised by the uniqueness of A Coruna. Also, the price was lower compared to other programs I was looking at with comparable included packages and similar durations for interning and studying.
Equus Zebra
What was your favorite part about A Coruña in Spain?
I loved the variety of environments. There was a beautiful, medium-sized urban area, a booming industrial complex, yet right on the coast with several beautiful beaches!
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
The people I met, my host family, and Nicole's (Nicole Berry, Linguistic Horizons founder) tireless mentorship made my trip seamless, immensely enjoyable, and unforgettable.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
Nicole was always available — for advice, practical assistance, or company. She arranged amazing and memorable cultural gatherings, trips, and exchanges with locals. However, she somehow always knew when to push you beyond your boundaries or check in with you at the exact right times. She is a wise woman with many worldly connections that has immeasurable worth.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I would not have changed a single thing about my 10-week experience.. . if I were able, I would extend my experience for longer!
San Juan Festival
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I woke up, went for a run, and then either went to school or my internship. After about three hours, I went home, or to a restaurant, or to the beach for lunch and siesta. Then, I went to school at night. I got done in the early evening and made dinner or went out to eat. Then, I either slept, studied, embarked on weekend travel, or went to a festival, bar, or discoteca, depending on the day of the week!
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
Going to the beach, cooking or eating at restaurants, running along the Paseo Maritimo, or talking and partying with my host family, school friends, and locals.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I lived with two female professionals in an apartment building with several Colombian families. Everyone was so kind, yet helped me practice my Spanish and taught me hard life lessons. I am extremely thankful for their generosity, welcome, cooking lessons, and limitless love!
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Don't be afraid to be yourself, fail, and try new things. Take care of yourself and show thanks, but don't be afraid to take some risks.
Would you recommend your program/provider to others? Why?
Yes, yes, yes! Every one of my expectations were exceeded during this experience and worth so much more than I paid.
Fragas de Eume
What do you feel is the biggest benefit of traveling abroad?
Improve your language skills, explore your limits, but also get connected with amazing people across the world. In doing so, you will grow in so many more ways than just one.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
I met people that have influenced my modern day outlook. I am amazed at the generosity of strangers and the European lifestyle. I miss Spain and I want to go back as soon as I can. I have unforgettable memories (and mind-blowing photos) and a significantly improved Spanish ability, but connections to diverse and amazing people mean the most.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Travel means going out of your comfort zone to see and experience new things to reflect on in comparison to your life. Absorb the majesty of the diversity of the world and don't be afraid to ask questions and seek more cultural knowledge.
