Dear Moody, 

This summer I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain a dream I had since my freshman year of college. Going into my senior year, I knew this would be my last opportunity to experience something like this, and it finally came true. I had the amazing opportunity to go abroad for three months, and these past months were filled with so much love, friendships, and memories that I’ll hold with me forever. Through this program, I met students from all over the U.S., which allowed me to create bonds like no other and connections I know I can count on.

I had the opportunity to engage in various courses that expanded my knowledge beyond my major, while also learning about Spanish culture and experiencing life in a new country. Even while abroad, I continued my work in Communication Council, taking meetings online from across the world and helping set the organization up for success this upcoming semester. Balancing my responsibilities at home with my experiences abroad taught me adaptability, time management, and the importance of staying connected to my commitments no matter where I am.

I immersed myself in Spanish culture through my classes, taught by Spanish professors, and through the staff in the program who generously shared their culture with us. This experience gave me a glimpse into what life looks like in Madrid while also allowing me to learn more about different majors across universities in the U.S. Meeting people with different passions, all coming together to take on the experience of living in a foreign country, is something I will cherish forever.

During my time abroad, I was able to travel to over five countries with this group of people, learning how to navigate different languages, public transportation, and even canceled flights. I learned how to adapt to life in a new place and live far from home for the first time. Although home was far, it was beautiful to grow to love a place and make it feel like home, especially when it had felt so foreign only a few months before. I leave with nothing but good memories and a full heart.

To Moody students thinking of going abroad, please do it. The memories and friendships created during this experience are unexplainable. The new perspectives I’ve gained this summer have allowed me to grow and remind me how grateful I am to have experienced something like this.

Con amor,

Nayeli