Q: Initially, what made you decide to study abroad? Why did you choose your program?
A: I always wanted to study abroad and had the passion to travel the world. I wanted to learn more of a Spanish cultural than anything else.
Q: What was the highlight of your study abroad experience?
A: Meeting people from all over the world not just from the UC system. Being able to walk freely in another country without worries was another awesome experience! Love every bit of my experience.
Q: What was your greatest challenge abroad and how did you overcome it?
A: Adapting to the weather. Bought a fan or just got used to it. Would go to the beach or cooler areas.
Q: How did your coursework abroad compare to your courses at UC Merced?
A: It was around the same compared to UC Merced. Or at least less homework. Classes were just longer in session.
Q: What did you gain from your study abroad experience?
A: I gain to be more social and to not be afraid to get out of my comforted zone. I learned to step out and do everything because time is short, and I have to take advantage. I learned there is more to see in the world than my town I am in.
Q: What advice do you have for students considering study abroad?
A: Do not be afraid to go out and meet people from the school. Meet locals for the best spots to see. Look up on the internet places to go and do. A big advice is to take advantage of every second of the day because your time abroad will feel short.
Q: Describe a typical day abroad.
A: I would wake up at 10 eat breakfast in my apartment. Catch the bus at 11:15 to UPF that would take two buses. I would have class at 12 to 2pm. Then I would each lunch at UPF before my next class at 3. I would have class from 3 to 6 then I would catch the bus to go back home, and it would be a 40-minute bus ride. Then typically eat dinner once I got home and do homework. Around the nighttime my roommate and I would go out to the club till like 4 in the morning.
Q: If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and why?
A: I would go to Spain but to another city. I would go there because I didn't get the chance to travel around Spain more so I want the opportunity to do it again and be able to travel around.
