Why did you decide to study abroad with IES?
Lily: I chose to study abroad with IES because it was a well-established program offered through my school. IES made it easy for me to go abroad and still obtain school credit that was easily transferable so I could graduate on time. I also had the opportunity to enroll in classes at the university and take classes with Spanish students. Madrid was the best option for me because I wanted to be in a Spanish speaking country to become fluent and I wanted to be in Europe so I would be able to travel to many different countries and all around Spain.
What made this study abroad experience unique and special?
Lily: As the capital and a major metropolitan city of Spain, Madrid offered numerous easily accessible opportunities for travel in Europe and Spain as well as a huge variety of things to do in the city. I never got bored there and had a hard time going back to places I liked because there was always so much more to explore and experience. The friends I made abroad as well as the cultural and travel experience of immersing myself completely in another culture made my experience special. I lived with a host family and was able to participate in their daily life and try to morph my schedule into that of an Española.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Lily: Living in Madrid was a huge change, but it made me more aware of other cultures, how to adapt, and the importance of traveling abroad, meeting new people, and being adventurous. I learned a lot about myself while I was abroad and realized I am a lot more independent than I originally thought and that I enjoy spending time doing adventures on my own.