AIFS Abroad: Study Abroad in Spain

My name is Sebastian Aguilar, and I’m currently studying at Texas A&M International University. In the summer of 2024, I had the privilege of joining the Hispanic Studies Program at Universidad de Nebrija in Madrid, Spain, through AIFS Abroad. Looking back, I can confidently say that partnering with AIFS was one of the best decisions I made.

From the beginning, AIFS supported me every step of the way, providing comprehensive guidance, opening doors to networking, and fostering connections that will undoubtedly shape my future career. Lucas Zugasti, the Madrid Student Services Advisor, went above and beyond in ensuring everything went smoothly—from helping with apartment check-ins to organizing events that immersed us in Spanish culture. His advice and insights into student life in Madrid made adjusting to a new environment much easier. Additionally, Barbara Franconi, AIFS’s Director for Buenos Aires and Madrid, played a crucial role by encouraging me to apply for the AIFS Ambassador Program. Through this role, I’ve expanded my network, developed professionally, and created lasting connections within the AIFS community.

Academically, the International Management course taught by Professor Omar Espana Arrieta was a highlight. Professor Espana Arrieta’s approach, blending innovative teaching methods with real-world business insights, allowed us to lead projects and presentations that deepened our understanding of global business practices. For anyone interested in international business, I highly recommend this course. It not only sharpened my skills but also allowed me to connect with like-minded students, making the experience richer and more impactful.

This experience was invaluable in helping me pursue my long-standing dream of launching an international business in commerce and logistics. Growing up between the U.S. and Mexico, I was naturally drawn to global commerce, and Spain’s strategic position as a gateway to Europe, Latin America, and Africa provided insights into international business opportunities and challenges. My ambition to build a business rooted in global markets feels much more attainable now that I’ve seen the possibilities up close.

Studying abroad truly broadens horizons, and for students where opportunities to study internationally may seem distant, I encourage you to take a leap of faith. Yes, the process requires determination and resourcefulness, but AIFS offers support at every turn. Personally, I worked in a federal work-study position, participated in affiliate marketing, and even sold homemade treats to raise funds. It was challenging, but the investment was absolutely worth it.

For those who are ready to embark on this journey, my advice is to start, even if everything isn’t perfect. AIFS, along with resources at your home institution, can help you navigate any obstacles. The experience will equip you with the tools to become more than just a student; it will shape you as a global leader, ready to engage with the world’s complexities and opportunities.

I had the absolute best time in Granada with AIFS. I decided on a homestay and was paired with another female student. She and I became very close friends and our host family was so amazing and included us in everything they did. The classes were dependent on the level you tested into, which made it very flexible to adapt to each student's learning. The AIFS program trips were so fun and they gave us lots of free time to explore. Granada is absolutely beautiful with so many fun things to do with friends!

If you are currently an undergrad and are looking into traveling,I definitely recommend AIFS! AIFS had many options and locations I could choose from to travel to, but based on the experience I wanted, I chose to travel abroad during summer to Barcelona in Spain. I loved how well AIFS was partnered with my home institution and offered courses that applied to my degree plan. I got to connect with other students and interns from the program, which helped me build quality relationships. UAB was also a great campus to attend while abroad, my professors and other international students were great! The AIFS on-site staff was truly so sweet and helpful with any concerns I had about housing, the city, or anything personal. Everything in Barcelona was super simple to navigate and there was always something I could do on my free time like walk to the beach or meet up with friends. Overall 10/10 recommend AIFS and Barcelona, I loved it!

I loved loved loved my program. I am studying fashion psychology and my supervisor Edith was amazing. I learned so much! Our location supervisor Lourdes was so kind, caring, and amazing. I highly recommend this program for every student. I was worried about going and feeling comfortable but immediately when I got there I felt at home and safe. There are so many sites to visit in Madrid; museums, restaurants, flamenco shows. I loved every minute of my program. Make sure to visit lots of places. <3

I knew I wanted to study abroad since I was very young and choosing AIFS Valencia was the best decision I ever could have made. Pre-departure could use improvement as communication prior to arriving in Valencia was subpar, but once we landed, we were in good hands. Janan is the most amazing program director: personable, knowledgeable, helpful, caring, and hilarious. She was our Spanish mother for 4 months and ensured we were healthy, cared for, and having the greatest time possible. She prepped weekly activities every Friday that were packed with fascinating cultural activities and adventures across Valencia and more; we didn't want to miss any. Valencia has so much to offer as well; up until last week, I was finding new places I wanted to try. I lived in an apartment of 7, which sounds like a big yikes, but it turned out nearly perfect. Our apartment was centrally located and allowed us to walk / Valenbisi / metro / bus for anything we could ever need. I had a good experience taking courses through UCV as well, but I had a few friends who had issues with grades, transfer credits to home institutions, language barriers with professors, and poor response times from the institution. All in all, I would not trade my experience for anything.

My semester in Salamanca was one of the best times of my life. It was a peaceful and fun time that created life-long memories and friends.

My international business classes were interesting, my professors were great, the city is beautiful, its people are very friendly, the food was delicious, and the night-life was fun. I still miss walking around that city to this.

Overall, I recommend a semester with AIFS Salamanca to anyone at all interested in experiencing Spanish culture in a beautiful walkable city or looking to learn international business in a foreign country.

The AIFS Spring 2023 Program in Granada was one to remember. AIFS staff was helpful every step of the way, from picking us up from the airport to getting us settled in our accommodation. They also planned a variety of trips and cultural activities for us to learn more about the rich culture and history of Spain. Classes were a perfect level of challenging but not stressful. You will be placed according to your level and will learn a lot, but there will not be a whole lot of homework. Knowledge of Spanish is not required but be prepared to learn a lot. This program is for anyone who wants to learn a lot and have tons of fun!

I spent the fall 2023 semester in Sevilla through AIFS and I loved it! AIFS, specifically our resident director, Edu, really made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Edu has a ton of experience, is super helpful, and very cool. He went the extra mile to make sure all of us were set up for success. Even small things like showing us where our classes were made a huge difference and were things that students from other programs didn't benefit from. Some of my favorite moments were the activities that AIFS organized, including a paella cooking class and a flamenco class. I also loved how easy it was to travel through Europe from Sevilla. Something that took some getting used to was how hot the weather was through October, but it was worth it having 60-70 degree weather in December! If you're thinking about studying abroad in Sevilla with AIFS, I would totally recommend it. Make sure you keep an open mind, try new things, and put yourself outside of your comfort zone. AIFS was there for me every step of the way and I would recommend them for anybody interested in studying abroad, especially in Sevilla!