When I first started exploring study abroad programs, I only had three criteria. My academic credits needed to be transferred, I needed to graduate in my expected semester, and I wanted to be in a major city in Europe. Given my generic expectations, I never expected to find my time in Barcelona, Spain to be so fulfilling and one of my greatest academic decisions.  

Choosing the Broader Academic Path 

As an information management major, my coursework has always been very career-oriented, structured, and technical. I realized that studying abroad was a chance to take classes outside of my major. After meeting with my advisor and planning accordingly, I came to an exciting realization. This would be the first semester that I could really learn for the sake of learning; without fulfilling specific major requirements.  

I chose to study in Barcelona, it was the perfect blend of history, art, and cultural identity (the beach and warm weather were definitely a plus!). This city had it all and living there was the perfect supplement to my studies. I took courses in Spanish history, food culture, Catalan language, and intercultural communication; all courses I wouldn’t take at home. This shift in academics really altered my thinking. I got to see the world from a broader perspective and was reminded of the joys of branching out and learning in the first place.   

The clock tower in Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia. This quiet neighborhood square is where we met and interviewed locals- it was so great to learn their stories and experiences. 

Classroom in the City 

While abroad, everything I learned in the classroom transferred into my living environment. In my food and culture class, we learned about the Spanish lifestyle, specifically with grocery shopping and mealtime. We learned about the markets that locals would shop at and how meals were treated as a time of socialization with shared dishes. I found myself integrating these concepts into my daily life during the semester. And in my Spanish history course we would have a classroom lesson and then walk around the city- identifying historic buildings and remnants dating back hundreds of years. CEA CAPA even offered a weekend trip to Madrid. It was fascinating to see the subjects of our lesson with my own eyes, and it really helped me connect to the historic timeline. 

Tapas from our cooking workshop. My favorites were the tortilla española (egg and potato omelet) and pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato). 

Meaningful Moments 

There were so many moments of my semester where I felt the deeper effects of my learning. I learned Catalan language, a lesser-known Romance language unique to Catalonia and Barcelona. That course helped me develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for Catalan identity and regional pride. While still very much at the beginner level, I remember how excited locals would be when I practiced. For example, a basic greeting and interaction in a bakery always warranted a big smile and further conversation. Because the local language is a pivotal part of the city’s identity, they really appreciated my efforts.  

Additionally, it is very satisfying to be sufficient in daily life! Like ordering meals, shopping, reading signs, hearing announcements, etc. Another notable moment was when my intercultural communications professor tasked us with interviewing immigrants in Barcelona. We had been learning about the idea of culture shock and integration into a new culture. Barcelona is an incredibly diverse city with many residents coming from other countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia. It was fascinating hearing their stories and how they adjusted to a new country, language, and culture all while preserving their own. That experience really reminded me how expansive the world is. 

Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Spain. CEA CAPA offered a weekend trip, and this was one of the many historical sights critical to Spanish culture. 

Challenge of Self-Doubt 

While I thoroughly enjoyed my coursework, there was a small part of me that was nervous. At times I’d get a nagging feeling that I was “wasting time” by taking unrelated major courses. It had been years since I took classes in history and foreign language, and I’d never taken a class in psychology/communications. I had spent the last few years extremely focused on a specific academic and professional path; it felt wrong and unproductive to stray away. But I remember discussing my concerns with my parents and college advisor and they reminded me that I was making the right decision. I’d never have another time like this. I was still graduating on time and receiving credit, which was ultimately my top priority. But I needed to take advantage of this freedom and flexibility because it is such a unique time in my college career. While I wasn’t learning about computer systems and software, I think I finished the semester with something more valuable and applicable: a holistic worldview.  

The Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas market, right in front of Barcelona Cathedral. Our Catalan class visited and spoke with the vendors, Bon Nadal! 

How Abroad Changed Me 

Living in Barcelona made me more empathetic, curious, and reflective. Instead of adhering to strict structure and solutions like back home, I learned to appreciate and be in the present. I embraced the cultural nuances of Spain and Barcelona. Studying topics outside of my major gave me the chance to be human in learning; I got to explore and connect. I came back home with a deeper understanding of how culture shapes people, systems, and decisions- a lesson that’s applicable no matter your major or profession.  

The iconic sights of Park Güell. Antoni Gaudi’s unique style is seen all over the city; I learned all about the famous architect through class.