What sparked your interest to study abroad?
I wanted to study abroad ever since I was in high school. As soon as I got to college, I researched all the programs that my university offered in order to study abroad. I sat down and reflected about were my goals in life and how a study abroad experience could help me achieve those goals.
What drew you to Madrid, Spain for your study abroad program?
I am a journalism major and as soon as I learned about a program in Madrid that offered an internship in a radio station and that offered journalism classes, in Spanish, at a Spanish university, I knew that program would help me to achieve my goals.
Did you look into any kind of financial aid for your trip?
I found two small but helpful scholarships in addition to the one that the study abroad program gave me. The rest of the money I got it in loans.
What was the most rewarding part about your stay?
It is difficult to choose one part because it would not be fair. If I had to choose one thing I guess it would be the feeling of belonging to Madrid. After living six months there, exploring the whole city, learning how to use the metro and making friends with the locals, I really felt I was one of them. I know that if I go back to Madrid with my family or friends in the future I could easily guide them through the city. I am positive that if I would get married with a Spanish woman and find a job in Madrid, I would be willing to move and live there.
Did you do any type of intern or service learning projects when you abroad?
I got an internship in a radio station in Madrid. Because I am a journalism major and I plan to work in the U.S. Spanish media market, this internship was extremely beneficial to me. It was my first time doing radio and it was amazing. I learned how to operate all the equipment to produce a live radio show. I also had hands-on experience in covering press conferences, rallies, protests, and interviewing for radio. My internship supervisor taught me a lot and was very flexible and patient with me. Having a supportive supervisor helped me to be more confident of myself and to enjoy even more my internship.
What were your living accommodations like in Madrid?
I lived in an apartment downtown Madrid with a young host family. My hosts, were really friendly, easy going, curious to learn about my culture, and very helpful. Because they are really young, it was easier for me to adapt and to talk to them. Jorge ended up being a season ticket holder of the Real Madrid soccer team and gave me several tickets to go to the games for free. My hosts worked a lot and during the week used to get home very late. I also had my own room and my own bathroom. Therefore, I had my own space and they were extremely flexible with me and with my space. They often allowed me to bring friends home to watch a game or to have dinner. They taught me how to cook Spanish food and I taught them how to cook Mexican food. Every once in a while we went out to have dinner together or rented movies to watch them at home. They introduced me with their neighbors, friends, and family and I really enjoyed my time with them.
How did your friends and family react at the idea of you leaving for Madrid?
My family supported me a lot. They all were very proud of my decision of studying abroad on the first place. They even prepared a farewell party for me before departing to Spain. We also kept in touch and chatted on the internet often. Having their support and approval really encouraged me and motivated me while I was abroad because I knew I had family and friends back home who were proud of me and who were waiting for me.
As a student of color, did you feel your experience abroad was different from your peers? If so, how?
I am not a student of color, but because I am Mexican American, my Spanish accent differs significantly compared to the accent of my Spanish peers. At the beginning I was intimidated to participate in class because every time I spoke they stared at me. Nevertheless, I soon realized that they stared at me because they liked my accent and wanted to listen to me speaking. My professors also liked for me to participate and were curious to learn about my point of view as an American of Spain’s political and social life. I made a lot of Spanish friends who liked to learn Mexican phrases and liked to imitate my accent. I also learned how to talk like them.
What do you wish you would’ve known before studying abroad?
This was the second time I studied abroad. The first time was in Brazil last summer. Therefore, I knew what to expect from a study abroad experience. Nonetheless, I read every day the Spanish news for about four months before leaving. That gave me a more ample perspective about what was happening in Spain. In addition, I had topics of conversation with Spaniards once I got there.
What do you think other students studying abroad should know before leaving?
Read about the history and traditions of your host country before leaving. Also learn the language and practice it as much as you can before leaving. I really recommend making friends with the locals as soon as you get to your host country. It really helps you having local friends because you can adapt to the new culture easier, faster and can help you not to miss home so much.
Do you think that there are any personal qualities that make it easier with the study abroad experience?
Be friendly and respectful with the host county’s food, language, and lifestyle. Go with an open mind and do not try to impose your American ideologies over the new people you meet. Simply observe and try to learn what they do. You do not necessarily have to concur with the way they do thinks but simply respect their culture. Be aware that negative stereotypes about Americans might exist. Be patient and do not take people’s reactions personal. Above all, always be yourself.
What do you think could have improved your study abroad experience?
I am very proud of all what I did and I think I really took advantage of my time abroad.
Would you recommend study abroad to other students?
Of course! It is a life changing experience. It helps you to open your mind to the world that surrounds you and makes you a more prepared and independent person.
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