API: Experience Barcelona, Spain (Scholarships Available)

Barcelona did not feel like a classroom with walls. It felt like a city that quietly taught me how to see, listen, and live differently. My study abroad experience in the summer of 2025 unfolded not through lectures alone, but through streets warmed by sunlight, conversations half-spoken in different languages, and moments of discovery that could never be scheduled. Academically, learning in Barcelona was inseparable from the city itself. Museums, plazas, and neighborhoods became extensions of the curriculum. Studying art, architecture, and urban culture while standing inside their physical context gave every concept weight and texture. Gaudí’s buildings were no longer images in a book—they were experiences shaped by light, movement, and time. History felt alive, layered into the pavement beneath my feet. Culturally, Barcelona taught me the value of ease. Life moved with intention but without urgency. Meals were slow, conversations unhurried, and public spaces designed for gathering rather than rushing through. Navigating daily life in Spanish—and occasionally Catalan—pushed me beyond comfort and into awareness. Each interaction, no matter how small, became a lesson in patience, humility, and connection. Outside of class, the city shaped my independence. I learned to trust observation over instruction, curiosity over certainty. Walking through El Born, the Gothic Quarter, and Eixample revealed how architecture influences human behavior, how design holds memories, and how cities tell stories through form and rhythm. Even the moments of uncertainty became opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Most importantly, Barcelona shifted my relationship with learning. It reminded me that education does not only happen when answers are given, but when questions are allowed to linger. Creativity, I realized, is deeply rooted in place—in how people live, gather, and respond to the world around them. Studying abroad in Barcelona in the summer of 2025 was not just an academic experience; it was a quiet reorientation of perspective. I left with sharpened interests, a deeper sense of independence, and a lasting understanding of what it means to learn with openness. Barcelona did not simply host my studies—it reshaped the way I move through the world.

Studying abroad, especially in Barcelona through this program, brought me to see a new lifestyle and part of the world I probably would ot have been able to see in any other way. The opportunity to live in another country for months on end, without having to worry about paying bills, a job, or any real-world responsibilities, is why studying abroad during college is so vital and the best time to do so. Barcelona provided me with immense opportunities to explore other countries seamlessly, as Barcelona is easily connected ot many other countries in Europe and Northern Africa. On top of that, API was extremely helpful, as they provided me with numerous opportunities to meet other students and participate in popular excursions in Barcelona that I may not have planned for myself. It was also very calming to know there was a team of people behind me who I could connect with if I had any troubles, as living in a whole new country can be so intimidating.

Studying abroad in Barcelona was one of the most enriching and transformative experiences of my life. From the vibrant culture and stunning architecture to the engaging academic environment and diverse international community, every aspect of my time in Barcelona exceeded my expectations. One of the standout features of the program was the academic structure. I enrolled in courses that not only deepened my understanding of Spanish and Catalan culture but also offered a global perspective on subjects like international history, and art. The professors were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, often integrating field trips into the curriculum. One of the most memorable academic experiences was studying the works of Gaudí in a classroom and then stepping outside to see La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell in person; it was truly a learning experience like no other. Living in Barcelona provided constant opportunities for cultural immersion. Whether it was navigating the bustling markets of La Boqueria, joining locals for a late-night tapas dinner, or strolling through the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine streets, every day felt like an adventure. One of my favorite parts of the experience was the emphasis on community. From new friends from around the world and local classmates, I always felt welcomed. The city’s unique blend of traditional Catalan heritage and modern European influence made it an exciting place to explore and learn from. One of the biggest advantages of studying in Barcelona was its prime location. The city itself offered countless attractions, from the breathtaking beaches to the historic Montjuïc Castle, but its proximity to other European destinations made weekend getaways effortless. I was able to travel to places like Montenegro, Switzerland, Italy, London and even the south of France, all of which further enriched my study abroad experience. Beyond academics and travel, this experience was vial in my personal growth. I became more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. Navigating a new city, learning a new language, and immersing myself in a different culture pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. The friendships I made and the lessons I learned continue to shape my perspective on the world.

I had a once in a lifetime opportunity, living off passé de gracia and attending the universitad autónoma de Barcelona. I took a international business class as well as international marketing strategies. I am fluent in both English and Spanish and have some knowledge in French which eased my experience in the hospital due to a stomach bug of some sort after shortly first arriving to Barcelona.

Studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain did more for my personal growth and career than anything I have experienced in my life thus far. I made my very first friend there while in line at customs and since then she has not only been a constant in my life, but a reminder of how truly life changing this experience has been. A year ago I was a completely different person who couldn’t be away from home for more than two weeks and who needed a friend to go to the grocery store with her. When I went to Barcelona, I got lost on my second day trying to find a croissant and a ‘cafe con leche.’ What should have been a twenty minute walk turned into two hours of me wandering around the city. But while that was considerably aggravating and anxiety inducing then, it was only the start of the many obstacles I would face and overcome. A month after that incident I was riding the metro without using google maps, and I had memorized my walk home. I knew exactly where ‘Mercadona’ my favorite grocery store was, and I could order my morning coffee with ease. The point here, studying abroad will force you to take a giant leap outside your comfort zone, and while that leap is met with some challenges-once you land on your feet you feel more capable and confident in yourself. You will set higher goals, you will meet those goals, and you will keep going. API gave me a truly remarkable experience living in Aparto Pallars and going to school at UAB. The people I met were unforgettable and I still keep in touch with them to this day. I felt that this was the perfect balance for me because even though I was alone, I was living with students from all over the United States, so it was easy to bond over the fact that we were all strangers to Barcelona and Europe in general. We started out as tourists gushing over the Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Casa Batllo, and we ended that experience more connected to the city. We understood the significance of holidays like St. Jordi’s day or Carnival, and knew that in a place that once felt so foreign we now felt at home in. API gave us those friendships, but also gave us the opportunity to have wonderful relationships with our professors at UAB. From visiting local businesses with my International Business professor who had so much personal knowledge on the city to being immersed in the art scene of Barcelona for my art class. I was exploring the city in my free time, but API connected us with the most amazing university that understood the importance of letting us explore the Catalan culture of Barcelona, Spain during class time. There is something so confidence building about studying abroad that you will never understand unless you just go. I had never been out of the country before, had never flown on an airplane alone, and I embarked on this journey to a new, non english speaking country all by myself. The only thing I would have changed about my experience is extending it. I never felt alone with API. We had the best staff in Barcelona, I made the most amazing friends, and knew that wherever I turned someone was excited for me about the experience they were creating for us. A year ago I was about to leave for this amazing adventure, and now all I think about is going back to Barcelona, my second home.

Studying abroad was the best choice I’ve made in my life. I was anxious to to go at first and leave the United States but I took a leap of faith with my teammate. We created friendships right from the airport in Spain. Those girls we met turned out to be our roommates and our best friends for life. I still talk to my roommates from abroad to this day and that is one of the key things that made me love abroad; the people I met along the way. I created so many memories in Spain and also in all the other countries I traveled to with my roommates.

Barcelona is an amazing city. I did the program alone, not knowing anyone else in it and it was the best decision. I met amazing people and really immersed myself in the culture. I met new people from all over the world, tried new foods, learned different traditions, and saw so many beautiful scenes. Not only did I learn about art and history through courses and the city itself, but I learned how to be independent and confident in myself. I definitely came back as a changed person and gained a new perspective on life.

I’ve always loved travel and intercultural exchanges, but I somehow wrote off study abroad during my first year of college. When the discussion opened up again in my second year, I was apprehensive and anxious if anything was the right decision. But now I can say without hesitation that choosing to study abroad and choosing to do so with API was the right decision for me. I was initially impressed with how well API combined diverse location, university, and course options with a smooth and personalized experience. Pre-departure, I could email the program coordinator with any questions or concerns and (even when my emails probably got annoying) my program coordinator would help address any issues I had. Once in Barcelona, the on-site staff continued that personalized experience acting as our support and helping us to transition, but also by being our friends. They knew all of our names and that really made all the difference. They helped to make our transition into our new homes incredibly easy. I felt so engaged in the culture and my classes even took trips around the city to museums and neighborhoods for hands-on experiences. Our apartment with a view of the Sagrada Familia was like a dream with access to supermarkets, the metro, and a short walk or train ride to class. I preferred traveling with a third-party provider because all of API’s amenities and services were fantastic and I felt comfortable engaging with them when they offered excursions like a cooking class or weekend trips to places like Paris and Montserrat. I don’t know that I would have been able to find and take advantage of the same opportunities had I traveled without API. In all, I loved my experience with API in Barcelona and still fantasize about it. And I am happy to call Barcelona my second home (which is a lot coming from a New Yorker.)

Barcelona is a city full of life, and I am so happy I decided to spend my semester abroad there! I still have a bucket list unfinished of things to do in Barcelona and in Spain, because there is so much to see and do. I enjoyed the Mediterranean culture and cuisine, and the languages of Catalonia are fun to learn and listen to. I felt so immersed in the culture, especially living with a host family in a neighborhood of the city that was less touristy. I liked getting to know a unique area this way as well as celebrating holidays with my host family. The cost of living was very affordable, and I learned a lot about living in a country where I don't speak the main language and how to cope with it. The key to studying abroad is being open-minded! Allow yourself to take everything in without judgement or expectations. My classes were fun too, and I studied Spain and the Mediterranean culture which enhanced my overall experience. I made so many wonderful friends and saw some really beautiful places. I would recommend a full Sagrada Familia tour, hitting L'Ovella Negra as much as possible and ordering sangria, and making a trip to the insane mountains at Montserrat. I would live in Barcelona again without hesitation!

My study abroad experience with API in Barcelona, Spain is one I will never forget. API made my experience even more incredible with all the helped provided with the emotional cycle, culture immersion, academics, housing, and so much more. I'm very grateful to have studied abroad with such an amazing programs. The on-site staff helped us all get adjusted with out first few days being in a foreign country. Also, through the semester, the staff organized trips to other cities in Spain, workshops, 'futbol' league, as well as volunteer opportunities outside of school. API did an amazing job with helping dive into the culture to learn even more about the the beautiful country. The classes at Universitat Pompeu Fabra were exactly what they lived up to, as well as great professor the helped adapt into the new learning style. The living accommodations provided by the program gives the student options on their preference with a host family, apartments, or dorms. I choose to stay with a host family to really immerse myself into the culture. If I could go my trip over again, I would still choose staying with a host family. Again, my decision to pick this program exceeded all my standards and I with I could have stayed longer!

Studying abroad in Barcelona opened up so many new ideas and experiences for me. I met some incredible locals as well as American students from around the country who I still stay in touch with 3 years later. I lived with a host mom and the best part was sitting down for dinner and anxiously waiting to see what the day's meal would be. She was a wonderful cook and it gave me a deeper sense of the local cuisine rather than the usual things people think of when thinking of Spain. I also lived across from the Picasso museum and loved having the park, metro and shops around me. I also enjoyed the international/local trips we took as a group with API because not only were we able to spend time with our peers but also got to experience new places and discover places you would have never thought to visit before. There was just so much to do in Barcelona that I honestly wish I could have stayed the whole year and I am definitely returning in the near future.

The six months I spent in Barcelona were some of the best memories and times of my life. The staff with API went the extra mile from giving us tips and tricks for getting around as well as the best places to hang out and visit; they even started a soccer league that they also participated in which really added to the experience of living in Barcelona (the same year Spain won the World Cup). I could not have had a better time!

If all you want to do in Europe is get drunk and go clubbing with Americans until 5 am every night, you'll love API Barcelona. If you have some interest in actually exploring a culture - well, you can probably do that here, but you're going to have to take it upon yourself. Your classmates will be pretty weirded out if you suggest a visit to a museum. On the bright side, one of the apartments they own is directly across from the Catedral and is absolutely gorgeous.