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Eager to follow in the footsteps of a college student who studied abroad in Spain? We recently caught up with Gabriela from the University of Texas at El Paso, who did a study abroad program in the Mediterranean city of Valencia during the spring semester.
Discover how Gabriela’s semester abroad helped her advance her Biomedical Sciences major and immerse herself in the local culture!
Choosing a Study Abroad Destination
With all of the incredible study and intern abroad destinations AIFS Abroad offers, choosing just one can be tough! Here’s how Gabriela decided on Valencia:
“I chose Valencia, Spain, because I was excited to explore a new culture while improving my Spanish-speaking skills and expanding my understanding of healthcare systems in another country. I already speak Spanish, as it is my mother tongue; however, as a Mexican, I was very curious to explore a different Spanish-speaking country that was not from Latin America. I also chose Spain because it is so colorful and it reminds me of summer. Valencia also has a beach, which is one of my favorite things on earth. I would recommend this program to students interested in cultural immersion, nutrition, public health, and language learning.”
Academics Abroad
A common misconception is that STEM majors can’t study abroad. The truth is, with the right program, a study abroad program isn’t only possible, but it can help STEM majors advance their academic careers and engage with new global perspectives. Hear Gabriela describe her academic experience in Valencia as a Biomedical Sciences major and Nutrition minor:
“I attended la Universidad Católica de Valencia. The professors were supportive and passionate, and the courses were interactive and had real-world applications. In my physiology class, we learned to do EKGs, and that was an aspect that I loved so much and took home with me. I enjoyed the balance of theory and practice in the classroom. I will say, it was a lot more rigorous than I expected.”
Study abroad courses are also a great opportunity to meet other students from around the world, as Gabriela explains:
“My classes included both AIFS students and international students. The environment was collaborative, and I had many group activities that allowed us to learn from different perspectives.”
In Nutrition and Dietetics, Gabriela enjoyed a field trip to a farm that grows ingredients for making paella, a dish that originates in Valencia:
“We got a class on how to make paella and toured the farm, saw animals, and a huge field of oranges. It was such an amazing experience and showed me the true Valencian Community culture of Spain.”
Language Learning Tips from a Native Spanish Speaker
Language proficiency is not required for the majority of our programs; however, some programs, like Gabriela’s, do require you to take a language course (as a fluent Spanish speaker, Gabriela was exempt). Below, she offers some advice for learning a language abroad:
“My advice is not to be scared of getting judged! A lot of the people in my program expressed to me their nervousness about speaking Spanish around me because they were scared I would question their skills. However, that is not the case at all! Europe is full of diverse people, and in my opinion, it feels so welcoming, and the people from whatever country you are in appreciate you trying to immerse yourself in their culture and language. I would never judge anyone for their speaking skills, I would encourage and help them learn more… I am sure the locals felt the same.”
Housing
Housing is included in all AIFS Abroad programs, which can take a lot of the stress out of planning! Below, Gabriela describes her experience in a shared apartment:
“I lived in a shared room in an apartment with six other people. I honestly liked every aspect of it. It was definitely a challenge to coordinate an apartment of seven people… [but] we overcame [challenges] by having roommate meetings and bringing up anything anyone was feeling that week.”
Making Friends Abroad
While you’re welcome to study abroad with friends from home, remember that studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to branch out and make new friends, as Gabriela did:
“I tried my best to attend all the excursions AIFS had planned for us. This all helped me get super close to everyone in the program and the other students in my classes. I formed strong friendships early on.”
In addition to making friends with other AIFS Abroad students, Gabriela built relationships with locals and other international people:
“There were countless opportunities to meet people through local events, language exchanges, cafés, and community festivals, especially during Las Fallas. I made friends outside of my study abroad program by chatting during class and reaching out to locals at cafes… My advice for future students is to put yourself out there and be open to conversations, even these simple interactions can turn into meaningful friendships. You only live once so don’t be scared of judgement or rejection… Attend local events, say yes to plans, and try not to stick only with your study abroad group. The more you immerse yourself in the local culture, the more rewarding your social life will be.”
Cultural Appreciation
When you study abroad, you plant yourself in a new city with a completely different culture. As Gabriela explains, the culture of Las Fallas and the community-wide excitement leading up to this festival left a lasting impact on her:
“Something I deeply admired about Valencia’s culture was the way the entire community came together during Las Fallas. Even months before the official celebration in March, the city began to shift into a festive spirit. You could actually feel the excitement building as early as January, despite the colder weather. It felt like a summer party every day, filled with music, joy, and anticipation.
What struck me the most was how united and lively the community became. People of all ages participated in the celebrations. I loved learning about the mascletàs, the building of the Fallas monuments, dressing in traditional attire, and the simple gathering in the streets to enjoy food and music. There was an overwhelming sense of joy, pride, and togetherness that radiated throughout the city. Experiencing this level of community spirit had a lasting effect on me. Since returning home, I’ve found myself seeking more opportunities to engage in local traditions and connect with others in meaningful ways. Valencia taught me that community celebration is not just about an event, it’s about shared joy. That sense of closeness and positivity is something I now try to carry with me in my everyday life.”
Trips & Excursions
Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to travel around your host country and visit neighboring nations, if you choose to do so. AIFS Abroad includes some trips in the price of the program, which allows you to enjoy new cultural experiences without needing to research and plan yourself, as Gabriela explains:
“I attended Madrid and a trip to Albufera (National Park). Both trips were incredibly memorable and provided unique insights into Spanish culture and history. The Madrid trip offered a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, museums, and vibrant city life, making it an unforgettable cultural experience. We met with the AIFS Madrid group and I really liked that experience because we made even more connections and compared Valencia with Madrid. The Albufera trip was equally special, with its beautiful natural surroundings and the opportunity to learn about the region’s traditional agriculture and enjoy an authentic paella meal at a farm. These excursions allowed me to bond with other students and deepen my appreciation for the traditions of Spain.”
In addition to AIFS Abroad trips, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to set out on your own on the weekends, like Gabriela did:
“I took several memorable weekend trips during my time abroad that truly enhanced my overall experience. Some of my favorite destinations included Italy, Germany, Hungary, Ibiza, and Andorra. Each place offered something unique and unforgettable. In Italy, I was captivated by the history, architecture, and food—walking through Rome and Capri felt like being in a fairytale. Germany was probably the most different country I visited, culture-wise. Budapest was interesting and I finally experienced the thermal baths everyone talks about. One of the most exciting and fun getaways was Ibiza. It was beautiful and full of energy. And finally, my ski trip to Andorra was an incredible adventure. It was my first time skiing in the Pyrenees, and I have never seen [such] amazing mountains. It does not compare to my skiing experiences in the U.S.”
Why AIFS Abroad?
Our housing options, immersive programs, and on-site support staff are just a few reasons why students choose AIFS Abroad. Hear why Gabriela chose our program for her spring semester in Valencia:
“I chose AIFS because of its exceptional reputation for providing immersive cultural and academic experiences abroad. I had heard from students and advisors that AIFS programs were well-organized, supportive, and included enriching excursions that truly allowed students to experience their host country. Their commitment to student success and inclusion, as well as their transparent scholarship opportunities, made them stand out.”
Wherever you go with AIFS Abroad, you’ll have an on-site Program Director, who is a tremendous resource, as Gabriela explains:
“[Program Director] Janan Batteh really stood out to me and deserves so much recognition. I believe I can speak on behalf of everyone that she was amazing. She was very welcoming, a safe zone, fun, and a great planner. She was always super helpful, and if she didn’t have an immediate answer to a question, she would research and get back to us. Janan was welcoming from the very beginning, creating a safe and supportive environment where we felt reassured, valued, and excited to explore Spain. She was not only a trusted resource but also fun and approachable. Her ability to plan meaningful activities and excursions made the experience even more enriching. Her dedication and warmth made a lasting impression on me and elevated the entire program.”
Final Thoughts from Gabriela
Gabriela leaves us with these final thoughts:
“I would just like to say that studying abroad was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I learned so much and I constantly tear up and get bittersweet feelings when I think back or look at pictures… Without [AIFS Abroad], I would not have had the same experience.”
Are you a student ready to take the leap and study abroad like Gabriela did in Valencia with AIFS Abroad? We’d love to help you start your journey!
Here at AIFS Abroad, we know a thing or two about helping college students study abroad. Our programs are incredibly inclusive, which takes a lot of the stress out of planning. From coordinating your housing to providing things like cultural and social activities, excursions, comprehensive insurance, 24/7 emergency support, on-site staff, and more, you’ll take comfort in knowing you’ll have support throughout your entire experience abroad.