Being Mexican and fluent in Spanish made my transition to Madrid incredibly smooth. I did some research beforehand about what to do upon arriving at Aeropuerto Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, like checking taxi prices to avoid scams or considering Uber, and knowing where to go throughout the airport and whom to dodge to prevent any issues. The city itself is stunning as it is full of trees, tall buildings with beautiful architecture. The people, culture, and food are amazing. One immediate difference I noticed in my first week was how relaxed everyone seemed. People walking the streets in pairs, chatting and laughing while enjoying their €2 coffee.
As I wandered through the various plazas, I saw that everyone preferred sitting outside at restaurants to soak in the views and fresh air. I found great comfort in knowing that you could approach anyone for help, and they would gladly assist you. Taking the Cercanías train to UC3M, I was greeted by a beautiful campus full of greenery and multiple buildings. It was a bit confusing at first to navigate and find my classes, but it became simple once I got used to it. Despite still using chalkboards, the classes are small, about 30 people, and the professors make a real effort to speak in English and address any needs. Starting school here felt like freshman year all over again, with that innocent feeling of not knowing anyone and wanting to meet everyone I encountered. Since arriving, I haven’t felt overwhelmed by the city’s vibe and knew I would adapt quickly.