This past semester, I had the privilege of studying abroad at IE University in Madrid, Spain. Over the last six months, immersing myself in a new culture has taught me so much about adaptability and personal growth.
Academically, I focused on hands-on communication and marketing projects, creating dozens of real-world advertisements. While the work constantly pushed me out of my comfort zone, it ultimately made me incredibly confident in my creative and professional abilities. At first, it was hard to balance schoolwork with wanting to explore a new city. But, once I learned to manage both effectively, it made my days so much better.
While the academics were very immersive, the culture in Madrid was even better. Every day, I found myself enjoying the traditions of Spain in different ways, walking around Puerta del Sol, having a picnic in Retiro Park, eating tapas at Plaza Mayor, and so much more. I love the way the culture here is much slower paced; you can see everyone living their lives with joy, instead of hustling everywhere with worry. Stores closing at random hours every day; people strolling slowly down the sidewalks, taking it all in; and Sundays as a rest day are among my favorite examples of Spain’s slow pace.
I can truly say that my time in Madrid has transformed me into a better person. I’m now so much more confident in myself. I have learned to enjoy my own presence, embrace other ways of living, and, most importantly, kindness. Spain has shown me immense kindness as a foreigner; I’ve been met with nothing but respect. It truly shaped this experience for me because it is scary going somewhere new where you do not even speak the language, but I now know that if you practice courtesy, it will come back to you. Leaving everything you know and love behind for six months is never going to be easy, and there will be hard times, but those hard times really shape you into the person you want to be.
Madrid did not just give me a place to study for six months; it gave me a new perspective on myself. I am now packing my bags to go back home, and I am filled with so many emotions. Happiness to see my family and friends at home, and sadness because I feel like I am leaving a part of myself in Madrid.
Overall, coming here was the scariest, but best decision of my life. That is why I recommend that everyone get out of their comfort zone and do something that will change their life for the better. I know that when I go back home, my friends and family will be sick of me talking about my study abroad experience. But, I will never forget how much it has shaped me into the person I am today.
This blog was contributed by Kira Hancock, Global Ambassador for Spring 2026. Kira is a Moody College of Communication senior participating in an exchange program at IE University in Madrid, Spain.
