About two months ago, as the days rapidly passed and time flew by, I had realized and so suddenly, it was May 31st. Soon I would be on the trip that I had been anticipating since the year before. There was such a wide range of emotion in the pit of my stomach, both fear and excitement being the most dominant feelings, as it was my first time flying and traveling alone, let alone to a different country. Little did I know, the next three weeks would be the most culturally enriching, horizon widening, knowledge building trip I would ever take in my entire life.

Salamanca- known for its historical university, beautiful antique architecture, massive cathedrals, and of course, La Plaza Mayor! All available right in the heart of España. Within the beautiful city, there is vibrant colorful life everywhere. Not only in what you see, but what you experience. When you walk down the streets, it is extremely difficult to ignore the rich culture poured into each building, since the past is well preserved, and blended with the present, as historical architecture appears to be untouched. Each day, I was granted the opportunity to learn, practice, and converse in Spanish with my host family, professors, and locals. I deeply enjoyed speaking there because it was amazing taking and combining what we would learn in class with what the native speakers would often say when communicating with one another, and overall, truly understanding the culture all the more. After class and on the weekends, we would be taken on many excursions, whether that was to explore the inside of the old or new cathedral, try different tapas, learn about historical jewelry like the Charro, listen to new music and try new dance, or explore different cities and learn more about the amazing history of España.

As a medical student, my goal within study abroad was to be able to speak Spanish more fluently to be able to communicate with others all the more. With SPC and Estudio Sampere I feel more confident within my ability to speak Spanish with others and have an overall deeper appreciation for España, and for that, I am eternally grateful. For Senora Levin, an amazing tutor and guide with so much love and patience for each individual student, the awesome professors, faculty, and host families, and of course, all of those who were involved with the study abroad 2025 trip, and SPC study abroad for an amazing scholarship, which helped tremendously.

– Ravin, SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025