Alessandra studied in Seville, Spain in Spring 2019 on the CIEE Seville: International Business and Culture program.
What was it about your program specifically that fit your personal goals over other programs?
My program specifically fit my personal goals for multiple reasons. First, I knew I wanted to do a homestay, which my program required. I wanted to be able to immerse myself in the culture and be forced to practice my Spanish as much as possible with a family that did not know any English. Plus, the three home cooked meals a day were a bonus in getting to be immersed in the culture. I also really liked that we had a required 2-week intensive Spanish class at the CIEE center because it allowed me to refresh my memory and transition into the city before starting our actual classes at the university. My program also offered an internship opportunity, a volunteer position at a local school as an English Teaching Assistant, and an opportunity to be a paid babysitter / English tutor ( I did the last two). Another aspect I loved about my program was all the optional tours and excursions they offered, including our big trip to Morocco.
How have you used the skills you learned abroad now that you are back; either in job searching, or in other activities?
While studying abroad, there were many experiences I had that I feel I could not have had if I had stayed at Penn State. Living in Seville for a few months with a family allowed me to truly get to know a new culture, and not just as you think you do during a week-long vacation. I actually got to hang out with local Spaniards (i.e. go to my neighbor’s rugby game, spend “La Feria de Abril” with friends I met through an “intercambio,” and hang out with my orientation leader). Plus, I became close with my host family, with whom I still keep in touch with. Besides the Spanish friends I made, I made some of my closest friends through my program who do not go to Penn State and we have been able to meet up multiple times since returning. One of my most profound experiences was being an English Teaching Assistant and tutur/babysitter for Spanish kids because it was so unique and fulfilling, and it made me realize I like to teach and be around languages. Of course, I also would not have been able to travel to so many new cities and countries without having studied abroad.
What advice would you give to outbound study abroad students to help them make the most out of their study abroad experiences?
A big piece of advice I would give to outbound study abroad students to help them make the most out of their study abroad experiences would be to try to interact with and make friends with the local people outside of your program. It’s easy to simply stick with your American friends who speak English, but the most profound experiences come from those in which you step outside of your comfort zone. Studying abroad is your chance to meet people you would never have the chance to in your home country. Also, I think travelling to nearby countries is fun and enriching, but do not forget about all the amazing things your own host city has to offer. Take advantage of all the extra trips and activities your program offers and try new things!
