Hey there, fellow Huskies!
As a junior studying business at the University of Washington Bothell, I never imagined I’d find myself strolling the streets of Barcelona, but here I am, soaking in the vibrant culture and rich history of this enchanting city. Through the UWB Global Student Ambassador Blog, I’m excited to share my study abroad experiences with you, hoping to inspire, educate, and address any concerns you may have about venturing abroad.
Choosing this specific program was a no-brainer for me. Barcelona’s blend of modernity and tradition, coupled with its reputation as a hub for business and innovation, made it the perfect destination to complement my studies. However, the anticipation of leaving my comfort zone and adapting to a new environment definitely stirred up some anxieties. I was nervous to see how my family would take it and when I had told them all about the program, they were ecstatic for me to have this experience and learn new things.
I opted for a traditional study abroad experience, immersing myself in Barcelona’s academic scene while also exploring its cultural treasures. From attending classes during the week to embarking on weekend adventures to European cities, every moment has been a lesson in cultural exchange and personal growth. Interacting with locals and fellow students has broadened my perspective in ways I never expected. I have also learned to interact in a whole new language. Learned the body language and morals of the people in this new culture. It has been a bit of a culture shock, but a good shock nonetheless.
To elaborate more on the process, you would start applying and filling everything out months in advance. So if there is a program you’re interested in, do make sure to check ahead of time for all the due dates. Secondly, you will pick your classes and make sure they will align with your courses at UWB, which isn’t hard since there are many options for classes with study abroad program. And lastly, you will have classes during the week, and with some programs there will be school led excursions to explore the city. As I have been here, I have wanted to utilize my time and make the most of this opportunity. During the week, I attend my classes, do school work, while during the weekend, I go visit different places in Spain as well as Europe. In the short time I have been in Barcelona, I have been to Hungary, Portugal, France, Scotland, London, Andorra, and Italy. It is an eye opening experience and I have learned so much about adaptation, empathy, and change in the few months I’ve been here.
As my time in Barcelona draws to a close, I feel a mix of emotions – excitement to reunite with loved ones back home, yet a twinge of sadness to bid farewell to this incredible city. One thing I’m determined to continue working on post-program is fostering the global mindset I’ve cultivated here, integrating it into my academic and professional pursuits.
Reflecting on my time in Barcelona, I’ve gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for the host culture. If I could do anything differently, I’d push myself even further out of my comfort zone, embracing every opportunity for cultural immersion. I would have prepared better by learning more Spanish, so I could easily navigate in the city and be able to converse more easily with people from Spain. This experience has left an indelible mark on me, shaping my perspective and fueling my aspirations for the future.
Through this blog, I hope to convey the power of studying abroad, encouraging you to embark on your own journey of discovery. Remember, the world is waiting to be explored – seize every opportunity to broaden your horizons and embrace the unknown.
Good luck,
Arshpreet Kaur.
