My experience in Spain was beautiful from start to finish. One of my favorite parts was all the hiking and walking. We were constantly climbing things that left us out of breath, but the views made it all worth it. I loved the exercise and how active the trip felt. Visiting places like Segovia and Ávila was unforgettable, and I got to see so many stunning sights. The people in the street were kind and wholesome, and I genuinely enjoyed stopping to talk with them.

The club culture was definitely different, not totally my vibe, but I had fun learning about it. I did miss my full American breakfasts, but discovering new parts of the culture made up for it. Everything was surprisingly affordable, and trying the cocktails was another highlight. Even little things, like how their bottle caps don’t come off all the way, made Europe feel so different in the best way.

What truly made my stay special was my host mom. She was an incredible cook and such a warm, welcoming person. I had the chance to talk with her a lot, and honestly, most of my growth in Spanish and confidence in understanding the language came from those conversations. My teachers also played a huge role. They weren’t just instructors, they were amazing tour guides who helped us experience the language on a deeper, more personal level. They taught us both formal and familiar Spanish, which made it easier to connect with people and feel like I belonged. Altogether, the trip wasn’t just about seeing a new place. It was about learning, growing, and feeling a little more at home in the world.

– Naja , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2025