Where did you study abroad?
I studied abroad at Fairfield University, which is located in Fairfield, Connecticut, in the United States. It’s a seaside town just an hour’s train ride from the heart of Manhattan.
How long have you been or will you be abroad?
I arrived in the United States on 28 August and left on 22 December.
How do you rate this experience?
The experience was perfect, 10 out of 10. Really, I couldn’t have asked for more.
What did you learn about the country where you studied?
The experience was incredibly enriching in every way possible. We lived just an hour from New York City, which allowed us to explore Manhattan in depth, discover new places, and make friends with people from all over the world. It was my first time living abroad, and the challenge of adapting to a new culture was really exhilarating. Moreover, the advantage of being on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean is that it opens the doors to fascinating destinations for travel and we had the opportunity to visit places like Puerto Rico, Vermont, and Boston.
What did this experience offer you on a personal and professional level?
On a personal level, my study abroad experience gave me countless benefits, but I would like to highlight a few in particular. First, my ability to speak English improved exponentially. In addition, I gained the ability to adapt to the culture and pace of life in a different country, which allowed me to experience the “creation” of a different version of myself. In an environment where no one knows you, you find yourself acting differently and discovering aspects of yourself that you weren’t aware of before. Finally, I also gained lifelong friendships, including both Spanish people I met there and Americans who welcomed me like a neighbour.
On a professional level, the experience was also exceptional for two main reasons. First, I would highlight the university’s high academic level. Considering its proximity to Manhattan, the university specifically prepares you to work there. Second, the university offered numerous tools and resources for professional development, such as advice on handling complex interviews or improving your CV or LinkedIn profile. I even had the opportunity to form part of an investment group where I learned directly from professionals in the financial sector.
What advice would you give to a student who would like to study abroad or is thinking about it?
Without a doubt, the advice I would give to any student interested in studying abroad is to dive into the experience with an open mind. Not being afraid of experiencing new things and getting out of your comfort zone are essential.