What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?
I wanted to choose a country that was Spanish-Speaking as I had been taking Spanish classes since I was 12 years old. When I came to Berkeley, I decided to minor in Spanish, but once I realized I had enough space in my schedule, I actually decided to become a Spanish double major while I was studying abroad. I learned so much about Spain's history and culture throughout my time in Madrid, and I bring that insight back to Berkeley with me as a Spanish and Analytics double major!
What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?
I took a class on Madrid Art Museums, Spanish Culture, Present-Day History and Politics of Spain, and a Spanish language class. Three out of four of these classes were administered in Spanish, and I got credit towards my Spanish major for three out of four of these classes. I enjoyed the discussion based aspect of my classes and that I got to know my professors well.
What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?
I went on a solo weekend trip to Northern Spain and did a homestay with a woman, and throughout the entire weekend I did not speak any English. It cemented my confidence in my ability to speak Spanish with people from the area, as well as learn about a different part of Spain.
What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?
My biggest concern was finding an apartment. Although it was challenging at first to envision how I would find a place to live considering that I would need to find it before I landed in Madrid, there were lots of resources available and websites that facilitated my apartment search. In the end, I loved the neighborhood that I lived in, and I had a very positive experience with my apartment and living situation.
