USAC Spain: Bilbao/Getxo - International Business & Spanish

My experience with USAC study abroad in Bilbao was one of the greatest decisions I made in my undergraduate education. The program staff from start to finish were accommodating, empathetic, encouraging, and an overall fantastic resource. They supported me in getting connected and building relationships within the Bilbao/Getxo communities, allowing me to supplement my courses with Social Media Admin opportunities, Classroom experience as an English Language Conversation Assistant in a local elementary school, tutoring opportunities with local families, and several group excursions that piqued my curiosity and sense of adventure! They offered great recommendations for regional travel to explore all that País Vasco had to offer, provided a safe space for any concerns I had, and took interest in my experiences and day to day life! When it came to housing, my host family was an incredible placement. I lived in an apartment with the most amazing family who supported me far beyond providing room and board. My host mom and her daughters were friendly, and I spent many days with them laughing at the kitchen table, exploring the community, and creating a relationship that has lasted beyond my program’s end. I fell in love with Bilbao and Getxo as a host city, felt enriched by my curriculum and professors, and returned home more confident in my language fluency than ever before. The ease of travel from Bilbao to the rest of Spain and more broadly throughout Europe was a complete breeze! I often spent time traveling and exploring on weekends, expanding my cultural competency and my passion for learning about the world around me. I feel that the USAC program offered me a chance to test my boundaries and grow as both a student and a person, I would encourage anyone considering study abroad with USAC to take the leap of faith and know that you’ll love where you land!

This program challenged me academically, socially, and personally. I grew so much as a person learning that I can adapt in an unfamiliar/foreign environment. I viewed this as a great way for personal growth. The classes were difficult but doable. Yes, you have to put in the work, but the instructors really enjoy watching students learn and grow. The location of the Bilbao program was perfect. Anything you might need is walkable. The support staff is great and ready to help all students, no matter what or no matter the time of day. Everyone in my group really enjoyed themselves! The only issue I have is that there were way too many emails beforehand, that some potentially important information could have easily gotten lost.

I had an amazing time with USAC! From start to finish, staff was very helpful. Classes were the perfect pace and structure. Teachers are aware that you may travel on weekends, so the structure of classes may be less homework based.