Pre-Spain
As a first-generation student, I knew I had to be the first in my family to graduate from college and get a career. This means that I’ve always taken my academics seriously here at The University of Texas at Austin. By doing this, I’ve grown as a student and as a person.
As a kinesiology major on the pre-physical therapy track, I’ve had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at various physical therapy clinics. As a technician, I’ve learned how challenging therapy sessions can be for Spanish-speaking patients, which is why I decided to join the Language and Culture program in Santander, Spain.
University of Cantabria
I’m currently towards the end of my program, and I can now say that Spain has changed me. Not only has my Spanish improved, but I have also gotten to know different foods, music, and beaches. Never in my life have I laughed this much in class or learned this much. My professor, Marian from the University of Cantabria, is La Bomba (the best).
She teaches both SPN311 and SPN314, meaning we work on our grammar and conversation skills for four hours, four times a week. Not once have I felt bored; she makes sure all eight of us are engaged and are learning. We’ve taken quizzes, written essays, and presented during these courses.
I recently did a presentation about Catholicism in Spain and Mexico because during the excursion with my cohort we got to learn more about the religion here, and I think it’s beautiful.
Three-Day Excursion
For this program’s excursion, we visited three different Spanish cities. We went to Leon on the first day, where I was introduced to El Camino de Santiago. I quickly learned that El Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route that leads to where Saint James was buried.
On the second day, we went to Salamanca, where we toured the university, Plaza Mayor, and the cathedral. All three were breathtaking.
Finally, on the last day, we went to Valladolid, where we toured the palace. Overall, this excursion taught me even more about Spain’s culture, including its religion and customs.
Takeaways
During my time in Spain, I got to travel with new friends all over Europe. I had the opportunity to visit Barcelona, Madrid, Santillana Del Mar, and Paris. Thanks to my host mom, I got great advice on which places to visit and tried authentic Spanish food.
The most important thing I learned in Spain was to prioritize quality of life. In other words, work and school are important, but mental health and physical health come first. I learned this by seeing how my host mom and other Spaniards take a daily siesta and how, on Sundays, the only thing to do is rest since every store is closed.
Overall, Spain has taught me to live one day at a time and to not overwork myself. Spain will forever be in my memory as the best decision I’ve ever made.
This blog was contributed by Denise Soto, Global Ambassador for Summer 2026. Denise is a College of Education senior participating in the faculty-led program “Language and Culture” in Santander, Spain.
