My study abroad experience in Salamanca, Spain, was a memorable aspect of my 2024 summer. Immersed in Spanish culture, I explored historical sites ranging from the local library built in the late 1400s to a medieval town that is about an hour away from Salamanca. As a Cuban-American, I appreciated the opportunity to refine my Spanish language skills, focusing on grammar and fluency. The supportive environment provided by the professors and staff in Studio Sampere and Professor Levin significantly boosted my confidence in speaking Spanish and my grammar skills. Along with a huge thank you to my wonderful grammar professor, Cecilia, for being a helpful hand in building my confidence in my grammar and effectively communicating more comfortably in Spanish. With their help, I was able to get over my initial anxiety and build a solid foundation in my mother tongue.

This program also cultivated personal growth and meaningful connections with students in my classes. The immersive nature of the experience fostered deep relationships with fellow students and locals, which helped my cultural understanding and bonding. Adding on, engaging with diverse individuals in various settings broadened my perspective and enhanced my adaptability to wherever I went. The combination of academic support and real-world practice not only sharpened my Spanish proficiency but also cultivated a sense of belonging and community, not just with myself but with others around me. Overall, my time in Salamanca was priceless, leaving a lasting impact on my personal and academic journey that I highly recommend for individuals who seek a life-changing opportunity.
– Nicole, SPC Spain Study Abroad Program, June 2024