Studying abroad in Madrid has truly changed my life.
Back home in Texas, it’s easy to feel like the world revolves around what’s right in front of you, your town, your schedule, your way of thinking. But being in Madrid showed me just how big the world really is. It opened my eyes to cultures, lifestyles, and people that I never would’ve encountered had I not taken this leap.
Living in Madrid wasn’t just about taking classes in a different country. It was about experiencing life differently, from the late night tapas to walking everywhere instead of driving, to noticing how people in Spain carry themselves with a different rhythm and mindset. It challenged me to slow down, observe, and truly live in the moment.
One of the most meaningful parts of this experience was reconnecting with my roots. I had the opportunity to visit my tia in Spain that I hadn’t seen in years, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for where I come from. It made the world feel smaller in the best way, like I was rediscovering a part of myself.
This program also gave me the chance to travel far and wide. I rode camels in the Sahara Desert, explored cities across Europe, and traveled throughout Spain. Each trip showed me something new about the world and myself. Meeting people from different countries and seeing how they think, dress, work, and live has completely reshaped my perspective. There’s something incredibly beautiful about being surrounded by so many cultures and ways of life.
Looking back, my initial impression was that studying abroad would just be awesome and fun, And yes, it was, but it was also transformative, reflective, and even humbling. I realize how important it is to explore the world, not just for adventure, but to expand your thinking and grow as a person. This experience didn’t just change my perspective, it deepened it.
Madrid will always be part of me now. And thanks to this program, I’m coming back to Texas with a more open mind and a bigger view of the world. It’s an experience I would recommend to anyone, to learn and grow and really just get out there and see what the world has to offer.
