IES Madrid-An Adventure of a Lifetime

The IES Madrid program is an amazing adventure that incorporates a great academic program and a wonderful way to experience the Spanish culture at its best. Being a native Spanish speaker, the programs classes were not extremely challenging, but would include excellent elements such as going to a theater performance or a field trip excursion into the city. It was a great way to get to know the culture and the my surroundings better. In addition, the program offered weekend trips to different parts of Spain, which I would totally recommend if you are interested in getting to know your host country better and have a great time doing it. The bonds you form with many of your fellow study abroad classmates are strong and can last for a lifetime. Friendships you form with your host family and other Spaniards can be hard at first, but are worth the time and effort. To this day I keep in touch with my host family and carry fond memories of staying with them. The meals were delicious and completely different from the Mexican cuisine I was used to at home. The food had less spice, but it never stopped me from cleaning the plate. If you are too go out for meals, the best meals usually were paellas or kebabs. They are usually reasonably priced and are great tasting. Speaking of pricing, having no tax or tip really was a difference from what I was used to here in the U.S., it is kind of a cool thing to not to have to worry about it. The nightlife in Madrid is spectacular and is definitely a way to connect with other Spaniards and have a good time. From bars to clubs, and finishing the night off with churros con chocolate, it makes for an interesting and adventurous night. I would also recommend trying to volunteer at a school and teach English. It is a great way to practice your Spanish with younger children and learn to translate between languages. Furthermore, if you take a course in either dance or music it will give you another perspective on the value of the arts within the culture. I myself took a classical guitar course and performed at the end of the semester. It was great! I even used the guitar to help me teach English at the school where I volunteered. I would day Madrid is the best place to be, since it is at the center of the entire country and is a hub for the arts, fashion, culture, dance, film, and socializing. Also, being at the center it makes it easier for you to travel outside of Spain. I went to Italy for Semana Santa and I had no problems with flying internationally and no layovers. In addition, within the city the metro (subway) is clean and very well connected and can get you from point A to point B without ever opening your wallet for gas. The biggest thing I think is to be open to the experience. Throw away any preconceived notions on what you will accept and enjoy the ride. Trust me you will not regret it. Overall, the program changed my life and made me a strong believer in IES Madrid. I relish the opportunity to return to what I now consider as my second home, and hope that any who choose the Madrid program will also have a positive life altering experience that will open your mind to a new world.