Participating in the 2016 Spain Study Abroad program has been one of my favorite experiences in life thus far. In accumulation with other factors, that trip was one of the biggest reasons I decided to take on a Spanish major in addition to the English major I already had in mind. (I’m not sure if I can say this, but I can also tell you that studying abroad with SPC is often cheaper because there are more scholarship opportunities available than other universities, and the smaller group is often more fun!) 🙂

I think it is an accepted fact that there is no better way to learn a language than complete immersion, but even if it is not, I guarantee it from personal experience. In no other situation will you be pushed to use the language you are learning than in a foreign country where it is constantly before your eyes and in your ears. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in really learning a foreign language–as in achieving fluency as opposed to a surface level understanding of the grammar.

In addition to language acquisition, the ability to gain a deeper understanding of the culture is unparalleled. Textbooks cannot teach what it is like to stand in the centuries old University of Salamanca or walk the misty coasts of Santander. You will never understand the Spanish sensibility until you live under the roof of a strong Spanish woman. To me, that was one of the most valuable aspects of the program: we stayed with native families, adjusting to their culture from breakfast to bedtime. In addition, I was able to travel a little on my own after the program, exploring cities like Santander, Bilbao, Barcelona, and Madrid. I can’t begin to say how thankful I am for the opportunity extended to me and sincerely hope many more students share in this as well.

Want to take part in this life-changing experience? SPC is now taking applicaitons for 2018 Spain Study Abroad program, click here to apply now!

I couldn’t know what to expect.

The moment I mentioned I was studying abroad to anyone (which I didn’t much, because I was in denial for the majority of the preparation stage), I was instantly flooded with travel information and personal experience. Despite the overload (which I loved), I still wasn’t prepared.

First off, my personal packing list was grossly underestimated. It wasn’t until I reached Salamanca that I realized I probably should have brought my tennis shoes (but it’s okay, I have my fancy Tevas). I also underestimated the weight of my backpacking backpack, which I have affectionately called the Big Blue Barry.

But that wasn’t all. I underestimated the beauty of an ancient town and the history it contained.I couldn’t picture how the Plaza Mayor would get more beautiful each night. I had no clue of the wonderful roommate I would have who laughs with me, forgets Spanish words with me, and reminds me not to forget my things everywhere. I hadn’t the faintest idea of all the sweet and lively people I would meet, both in and out of our little group.

The fierce waves and fabulous lunch in Biarritz, the magical mist and sweeping views of San Sebastián, the illuminated buildings of Salamanca, the tight goodbye hugs from my Spanish mom, a spontaneous photoshoot outside of a cave in Zamora, mischievous smiles from the kids at Piratufos, our SPC bear mascot (which we have named Santiago Pedro Cruz), manufacturing Spanish guitars and making the business owner’s day, innumerable of Rummy--this and so much more will be kept in my heart as a gift.

In each detail, I am so very thankful for the opportunity to learn in and about another culture so thoroughly and with such good company. I am excited to continue to pursue complete fluency in Spanish and hopefully pick up my next language soon! A special thank you to the donors who gave towards my two scholarships and to my fantastic professor, Roxana Levin, for convincing me to go!! I am blessed.