My experience of studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain was one of excitement, wonder and perseverance. I have traveled the world, but never experienced truly living a way of life and experiencing the culture like the Study Abroad Program in Salamanca, Spain afforded me with total immersion.
The professors and staff at Estudio Sampere went out of their way to help us immerse in the culture and language of Salamanca. The professors there were very kind and encouraging throughout the three weeks we had with them. They made every attempt to teach us in a way we could immerse ourselves in the language and the city of Salamanca. Also, I cannot say enough wonderful things about Professor Levin and Professor Albrecht. They were always readily available to help us with tutoring each morning before school, attending all activities after school and even stopping in at Estudio Sampere during our breaks to make sure everyone was doing well. Their constant attention and reassurance to us when it was difficult helped put us at ease and you always had their encouragement and support, which was immeasurable.
Outside of school and activities, Professor Levin was amazing at setting up every local event on the calendar and cultural activity she found going on in the city for us to experience Salamanca to an even fuller extent; even if that meant meeting for fireworks at 10:30 pm in the rain, she was there!
I absolutely loved the city of Salamanca and hope to go back someday. It was a beautiful city filled with history, cathedrals, and incredible architecture on every corner. The Plaza Mayor was one of my favorite places to go before or after school as you could almost always find something going on there whether it be an orchestra performance, circus show or fireworks. It was the heart and life of the city!
The highlight of our trip was going to San Sebastian and Biarritz in Basque country along the coast of Northern Spain and the border of France. The views were breathtaking and delicious crepes and pintxos were devoured.
I strongly believe everyone should experience a Study Abroad program and feel that it has changed me in my personal life as well as my professional life. This was an experience that not only taught me so much about the people, history, language, and culture of Spain, but also pushed me outside of my comfort zone which will benefit me in my future endeavors, and for that I am forever grateful.–Study Abroad Student , SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2023
From 12th century cathedrals to trendy shops and endless restaurants, there was something new to discover around each corner in Salamanca. The town itself was relaxed yet full of life. The Plaza Mayor (or main square) hosted many evening events such as a classical concert and a breathtaking light show. It was also the perfect daytime spot to study at a café with the new friends I had met in class.
Living with a host family was my favorite experience in Spain and funny enough, that had been the part I was most worried about. My host was welcoming, accommodating, and funny. Although she spoke no English and I spoke very little Spanish upon my arrival, I was able to apply what I learned in class to communicate with her. By the second week of my trip, we had our first full conversation in Spanish. I felt so comfortable there that on our way back to Salamanca from our weekend excursion in San Sebastian and France, I told my friend that I felt like I was going home.
I attended class every weekday afternoon and it was very fast-paced. Although all of the information was a little overwhelming at first, I was able to apply what I learned each day in real life situations like ordering at a restaurant, asking for directions, and talking to my host family. I believe this immersive experience helped me learn much more Spanish than I would have learned in a class in Florida because of this.– Janette, SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2023