Study Abroad in Madrid: Instituto Franklin-UAH

When you are a Bulldog at Butler University, it’s hard to leave your vibrant campus life behind for a full semester. Still, choosing to study abroad became one of the most rewarding decisions of my college experience. Thanks to Calie Dickey and staff at Butler's Center for Global Education, the decision quickly became a no-brainer. I took my international business and Spanish studies from our campus classroom all the way to Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain. Living life as a Madrileña, every day brought something new. Spanish language immersion was central to my goals, and living with my incredible second family as a host daughter in their home became the most impactful part of my experience. My family welcomed me into every part of their lives - their gastronomy, daily rhythms, friends and family, evening street culture, and cherished traditions. I learned that Spaniards can always find something to celebrate. During my time abroad, three things stood out: • Discomfort turned into confidence • Curiosity turned into cultural exploration • Strangers turned into family As a student at the Instituto Franklin-UAH, I was challenged in nearly all Spanish-speaking courses and connected my daily experiences with coursework in Spanish poetry and traditions. I also completed a marketing internship with local business Buceo Alcalá, where I grew as a professional in my secondary language - proving to myself that growth lives on the other side of discomfort, even amid cultural and language barriers. The International Business major in me was eager to absorb everything around me. Before I departed, even my former colleagues at Eli Lilly and Company were excited to send me off. I was later invited to visit our Government Affairs team at the international office in Alcobendas, Spain, an unforgettable opportunity to see one team working across seas. My time with Teresa Millan and her team Cristina Escudero Marquez, and Claudia Penzol López will always be cherished. Now back in Indianapolis for my final semester as a Butler undergraduate student, the golden question remains: “Do you miss it?” And while yes, I miss the adventure, the unknown, and the beauty that is Spanish living, I am grateful to be home. I smile with contentment for the life-changing memories and apply my broadened perspective to my life every day.

Studying abroad at UAH was one of the best decisions I ever made in college. I'm a semester away from graduation and can say without a doubt that the four months I spent at the university were some of the most impactful and inspiring of my life so far. My Spanish speaking ability greatly increased, I made awesome new friends, explored Toledo, Madrid, and Alcalá, as well as the Valle de los Caídos, and figured out what I want to do with my life. I cannot recommend this experience highly enough! Go get lost in castles and monasteries, find yourself in awe of the Roman ruins, and make friends with the locals in cafes and bars. Getting to know the lovely people and participating in daily life activities alongside them, even joining in all the festivities for Semana Santa, was incredible. If you have the opportunity, by all means, what are you waiting for? And if you do, please be sure to go back to the río de Henares and tell it I miss it already <3

I’ve only been here a few weeks, but it has been so much fun! I’m learning a lot about Spanish culture, and I love living with my host family. I cannot wait to continue making memories here in Spain!!