Study Abroad in Valencia, Spain

I had the most amazing time with Worldstrides in Valencia, Spain. Through my program, I took two classes at the University of Valencia, "Spanish Cinema" and "Spanish History and Culture." In these daily classes, I spent valuable time with the people in my program and learned so much about the history and culture of Spain. My time spent with my host family was equally enriching, if a bit intimidating. When I first arrived in Valencia and met my host mom, I realized she spoke absolutely no English. I certainly wasn't fluent, and I was terrified at the idea of having to communicate entirely in Spanish with her. By the end of my trip, though, my Spanish language skills had increased tenfold, and I was having daily conversations with my host family about their lives and interests, as well as what it was like to live in Spain. I made connections with my host family and my classmates that will last a lifetime, and I owe much of this to the Worldstrides program and team. The on-site staff made us feel comfortable being in such a new environment, and they always had advice and recommendations to help us feel more at ease. I would recommend this program to anyone wanting to improve their language skills and get to know a different culture and country.

This program was absolutely amazing! From the very beginning, I felt welcomed and supported by both the ISA and UCV staff, who were incredibly kind and helpful throughout. I made lifelong friends that I now get to see at my home university, and I formed a deep, lasting bond with my host mom that I’ll always cherish. Although I was super homesick at first, this experience turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. I grew so much personally and academically, and gained a new perspective on the world. I highly encourage everyone to study abroad if they have the chance—it’s truly life-changing and unforgettable!

Staying with a host family in Valencia was one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences I have ever had. From the very first day, I felt welcomed into their home not just as a guest, but as part of the family. This made all the difference in how I experienced Spanish culture—rather than observing it from the outside, I was able to live it day by day. The warmth of my host family, their traditions, and even the small details of daily life opened my eyes to a new way of connecting with people and a culture that was both familiar in some ways and completely new in others. One of the greatest advantages of living with a host family was the language immersion. While I had studied Spanish before, nothing compares to the challenge and reward of speaking it constantly in real-life situations. From breakfast conversations at the kitchen table to late-night chats about Spanish customs, I found myself improving not just in vocabulary, but also in confidence. My host family was patient and encouraging, helping me navigate moments when I stumbled over words and celebrating my progress when I managed to express myself more naturally. This daily practice gave me a comfort with the language that I don’t think I could have achieved in a classroom alone. Weekends in Valencia brought another layer of adventure. The city itself is vibrant and full of history, but I also took advantage of the opportunity to explore beyond its borders. Solo travel became an unexpected highlight of my time in Spain. At first, the thought of traveling alone felt a little intimidating, but it quickly became one of the most empowering parts of the experience. I learned how to navigate new cities, plan my own itineraries, and rely on myself in unfamiliar situations. Whether it was wandering the narrow streets of Seville, marveling at the architecture in Barcelona, or tasting regional specialties in smaller towns, each trip gave me a deeper appreciation for the diversity of Spain’s culture and landscapes. Living in Valencia also gave me the chance to connect with local traditions on a personal level. Festivals, food, and family routines all became part of my daily rhythm. I discovered how meals are more than just eating—they’re about connection, sharing stories, and taking time to be together. I joined in on local celebrations, experienced the lively energy of Spanish music and dance, and even learned the subtle cultural gestures that make conversations feel authentic. These moments helped me see Spain not just as a place to visit, but as a culture to belong to, even if only temporarily. Looking back, I can honestly say this experience was a 10/10. It combined the joy of travel with the depth of cultural immersion, while also teaching me about independence, adaptability, and the value of human connection. I would absolutely do it again—and in fact, I can’t wait for the opportunity to return. Staying with a host family in Valencia didn’t just give me memories; it gave me a new perspective on travel, language, and community.