Spain: Valencia - Spanish Culture, Language, STEM Disciplines

I have always been a quiet student who focuses mainly on academics. I chose to study abroad to have a time where I focused less on academics and more on having a memorable experience. I lived with a host family who were incredible and helped me explore Valencia. I played beach volleyball and went swimming in Montanejos. Valencia is beautiful, and I found a community in Spain. My professors were so supportive. But more importantly, I gained experiences that I would have never done on my own. I was out of my comfort zone, but for the first time I felt capable and free.

I had an amazing time studying and living in Valencia, I would definitely recommend the trip to anyone who's considering it! Valencia was small enough to still have a safe, calm atmosphere while still giving you the Europe experience (not to mention how much cheaper the city is than the bigger destinations like Madrid or Barcelona). There's plenty to do in Valencia, especially if you take the USAC windsurfing or cooking classes, but it's also so close to so many more destinations (I went to Dragonstone from Game of Thrones on one of my weekends and Barcelona on another). I loved my time in Valencia and with USAC!

Valencia was the most incredible place to spend my summer the sophomore year of undergrad! Although quite warm, it is the best location right on the Mediterranean shore, and the city is the best combination of old, historic, European cities, but also plenty of modern, urbanized city. It had everything I was looking for and UPV was such a great community to be a part of! The support and community through USAC was also exceptional. I made friends and connections I will hold onto for years. Additionally, my host family was exceptional, and living three blocks off the beach could not have been more convenient! Valencia is a hidden gem of Spain, and the USAC program located there is something anyone would be lucky to experience!

I did so many things that I had never dreamed of doing before. Had windsurfing classes on the Mediterranean, tried new foods, learned Spanish dances, met people from around the world, and got opportunities to travel to so many countries. However, throughout all of these experiences, I never once felt unsafe. I also took many Erasmus trips and my organization helped me prepare for those as well. This organization helps you plan, gives you advice, and makes you feel prepared to take on anything you want!

When deciding to study abroad I was excited and nervous to see how I would grow as an individual and adapt to a new life oceans away from my home. I grew up in a rural town and even attend college in a rural town so the opportunity to study abroad in Valencia, Spain was unlike anything I had known before. Luckily when I arrived in Spain, I was quick to adjust to my new lifestyle thanks to the kindness of my host institution and the helpfulness of my program staff. Valencia is amazing and I would not trade my experience for the world! The breathtaking beaches, beautiful city, and delicious food are just three of the reasons why Valencia should be at the top of your list!

I had the best time studying abroad in Valencia! It was amazing to be next to the beach and getting around the city was so easy. USAC was so helpful in the admission process, they made it so easy and comfortable. I loved my classes they were super interesting and some even took us on field trips around the city. The field trips through USAC were some of my favorite adventures and I made amazing friendships with people in my program. My only regret is not meeting enough locals! I was able to easily travel to other countries and cities within Spain. It would have been nice to have classes with Spanish local students but it was amazing to be alongside with them.

My experience in Valencia, Spain was the best in my life to this point. Since returning I don't think I have stopped talking about it. I spent my days going to class, exploring the city, and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches. It was truly a dream. One of my favorite memories was getting to experience San Juan. This is a festival on the beach to bring in summer and a new beginning. During this event, I met so many new people and got so much closer with the people in my program as we danced around the fires and sang our hearts out while participating in the ritual of jumping over the fire seven times, burning your 7 wishes, then jumping in the ocean 7 times. This truly was the experience of a lifetime.

This summer I studied in Valencia, Spain for a month...and I would not have changed my experience for the world. If anything, I wish I could have stayed longer. Having the ability to meet new people, living with an incredible host family, and learning how to embrace a different culture helped not only grow my confidence, but also my character and change my perspective on life. I learned how to embrace differences, try new foods and activities without fear, and I was able to become a stronger Spanish speaker. Without my helpful host family, understanding teachers, and incredible and encouraging USAC community (both staff and students), I would not have had the most memorable time abroad. The opportunities and connections that I made during my study abroad will forever play a great part in my life and I hope to keep sharing my experiences with others in hopes that they choose to study abroad as well. So, take the chance without worrying about whether or not you'll have a good time, because I promise you will! Studying abroad will forever hold a place in my heart and I hope you get the chance to make these remarkable memories too!