A part of your study abroad pre-departure preparation will likely include training on how to manage “culture shock” in an unfamiliar environment. At first, these new experiences can be challenging and may add to a feeling of homesickness. It’s best to approach adjusting to a new lifestyle with the mindset… read more
Reflections on Spain
It’s another late night on my host mom’s balcony in Santander. With a complete view of the city and the public park, it gives the perfect opportunity to stop and relax after a long day or weekend of travel. Tonight, though, the feelings are much different: With two weeks left… read more
The Pre-Med Abroad
¡Hola! My name is Gillian Witten, and I’m a pre-med neuroscience major at The University of Texas at Austin, working on my certification in Spanish for the medical professions. My undergraduate thesis focuses on improving ways to facilitate culturally competent language concordance in medicine. Eventually, I hope to become a… read more
Lessons in Santander
Has it only been a little over a month in Spain? I cannot believe it. When my brother dropped me off at the airport in Houston for my flight to Santander, Spain, I only had one question: “Can I do this?” Of course, there is so much ambiguity in that… read more
I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends
Taking the leap to study abroad for the entire summer was not an easy decision for me, to say the least. While I eagerly looked forward to being fully immersed in the language and culture of Spain, a part of me wished I could soak up this last summer with… read more
“Sooo… what’s the next step after graduation?”
It’s down to three days until graduation, and for most of us peer advisors, study abroad has greatly impacted the plans we have after walking the stage. As a reminder, peer advisors are available Monday through Friday from 9-5 during the semester and 12-3 during the summer on a walk-in… read more
Top 5 Things to Do in Santander, Spain
With the summer faculty-led study abroad program deadline slowly approaching (Dec. 1), I thought that it would be appropriate to highlight one of the most popular programs offered, Language, Culture and Engineering in Santander, Spain. However, if Spain is too far from home for you, there is also its twin… read more