Study Abroad

I studied abroad in Toledo, Spain, during the fall semester of my junior year in 2023. As someone majoring in International Health, I was eager to immerse myself in a different culture, improve my Spanish, and gain a broader perspective on global issues. My initial goals were to challenge myself linguistically, while also experiencing as much of Europe as possible.

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One of the most noticeable cultural differences was the daily pace of life. In Toledo, life felt more relaxed—people took time for meals, enjoyed long conversations over coffee, and prioritized social connection. For instance, no one ever had their cell phones out at restaurants, and it was common to see locals strolling the winding streets of Toledo well into the evening. This contrasted sharply with the fast-paced, efficiency-driven lifestyle I was used to back home.

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Another difference was the communication style. Spaniards are much more direct and expressive, using gestures and tone to convey emotion. At first, I misinterpreted this as impatience or frustration, but over time, I began to appreciate the authenticity behind their communication. These interactions pushed me to reevaluate my assumptions—especially around time management and interpersonal communication. I began to see the value in slowing down, being present, and truly engaging with the people around me.

 

The most transformative experience came from being stretched in my Spanish abilities at my internship placement. While I had studied the language in a classroom setting, nothing compared to the challenge of using it daily in a fast-paced, professional environment. From participating in staff meetings to engaging directly with community members, I was pushed to think and respond quickly, often outside my comfort zone. There were moments of misunderstanding and frustration, but over time, I gained confidence—not just in my vocabulary and grammar, but in my ability to navigate real-world conversations with cultural nuance. This immersive experience accelerated my language development and showed me that fluency isn't just about speaking correctly—it's about connecting meaningfully across language barriers.

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One personal challenge was dealing with loneliness and homesickness during the first few weeks. I overcame it by stepping out of my comfort zone- saying yes to exercise classes or cultural experiences, initiating deeper conversations with my cohort, and embracing every opportunity to connect. It taught me resilience and openness, and I left with deeper confidence in my ability to adapt and thrive in unfamiliar settings.

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This experience fundamentally reshaped how I approach new environments. I’ve become more culturally adaptable, more empathetic in my communication, and more curious about global perspectives. These are skills I know will serve me well in any professional path—especially one that requires cross-cultural collaboration or global awareness.

Studying abroad taught me that growth happens when you step into the unknown. It gave me academic insights, personal growth, and lifelong memories. Most importantly, it confirmed my passion for international work and gave me the confidence to chase it boldly. As I look ahead, I carry with me the lessons of resilience, cultural humility, and the joy of connecting across differences—values that will guide my journey wherever it leads.