What inspired you to travel abroad?
One of my teachers really pushed me to and told me it was a life-changing experience. I had wanted to learn more Spanish, visit Spain, and travel to Europe for a while, so it was a dream fit!
I didn't know much about Spain's history, so I didn't have any cities in mind. But, the cities we went to were beautiful—Cádiz (most of the trip), Sevilla, and Granada.
Cathedral of Cádiz on a sunny day.
Why did you choose Study Abroad | Intensive Spanish | University of Cadiz Spain program?
I wanted to go to Spain, and I was able to sign up for it fast because it was only a few months away.
It was one summer month that was good for credit and time. It meant I only lost one month of work while still learning a lot and getting two class credits.
A full semester would likely be undoable at this point in my life, so having a one-month trip was very convenient for me.
What was your favorite part about Spain?
Architecture/art. Beautiful streets, cathedrals, and statues. So much color—even in the dress.
Such a beautiful country with such positive, happy people! I liked roaming the streets and seeing pretty sweet stores, or freshly baked bread at a bakery.
There was a cleanliness, style, and color to almost every business that made it fun to explore.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
My host mom, the teachers and staff of Mundo Lengua, the people I met there, and learning with classmates about the culture and language.
I learnt a lot about culture—but also how similar we are in a lot of ways. We watch some of the same shows and listen to similar music.
As different as learning about another culture was, you can see the character and personality of people pop through even when there are language limitations.
Exploring the vibrant streets of Granada, where history and art meet at every corner.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
They helped me when I needed to go to the doctor (twice). They helped me still when I got back from the trip.
They also explained food culture, places to get deals, and how to navigate the culture as an outsider. When on tours, they helped answer historical, cultural, and language questions.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
Probably sightseeing more. If I had more money, I might have left Cádiz. I wanted to see the theatre in Cádiz, but ran out of time.
I loved Sevilla and want to explore it more thoroughly. I think some of this couldn't be helped, however.
Also, I was a bit sick throughout a lot of the trip, which I don't think could be changed either.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
I believe school was at 8 or 9 (easy for late sleepers). School was only till 2, with a 40-minute break (also easy).
You learn a lot quickly. Go home, eat lunch, and plan the evening and night.
There were many activities, both from Mundo and the students, and the schedule was full—beach, sightseeing, food, surfing, cooking lessons, etc.
On weekends (3-day weekends yay), there was so much to do—but my group usually went to the beach, watched fútbol games, or partied. I went to church and hung out with my Americans when I could.
Stepping inside the stunning Granada Cathedral—where intricate details and soaring ceilings inspire awe.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
Going to the various favorite locales for food or just for walks. Seeing their culture (it is much more social and active).
I also attended church and made friends there. Hung out with American friends and Spanish church friends.
Also, occasionally shopping. But window shopping was fun there. They have such beautiful ways of displaying ice cream or food, for example, in simple shops that make them feel so fancy.
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
My host mom was hilarious, easy to communicate with, and a good cook. She was a genuinely good person and an attentive listener.
Also, we hosted another student not in our group—John—from whom I learnt a lot. Very good conversations were had, and culture was learnt.
My roommate was also incredibly fun to be around, and I learned a lot from him.
Exploring Sevilla’s historic heart, where architecture, culture, and centuries of history come together.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
Pack everything you need. Take your "me time"—whether it's your daily devotionals, exercise, or needed music—seriously.
You will probably need time alone after thinking hard. Have a good buffer of money—things are cheaper over there in Spain, but fun things to buy always come up.
Try to bring 700–900 extra if you can—borrow the money if you have to.
Would you recommend your program to others? Why?
Absolutely. For those not familiar with other cultures or who want to learn the language, this trip is life-changing. Amazing!
For people who feel like they can't do this financially, the IES scholarship can help you a lot.
I would recommend this trip so much that you should borrow, fundraise, and save up for months or even semesters to make this work.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
It's two-thirds learning useful skills and one-third vacation. It's a chance of a lifetime to dedicate so much time to focusing on language alone while also having time to enjoy yourself.
This is also the perfect time to do this—in college. You have freedom and independence in the country you travel to, which makes learning feel more alive.
Admiring sacred art in Sevilla’s cathedral—where sculpture, silence, and history come together.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
Aided my Spanish a lot. It has broadened my horizons. Places I had wanted to go that always seemed impossible are now reachable.
I feel like God blessed me with this trip to show me that dreams can come true, and it meant a lot to me because I thought I was too poor and from a lower class to have a trip like this.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Traveling with a purpose—often to help others, help yourself, or make memories. I definitely made memories on this trip.
I helped others where I could, especially with homework.
