University of Wisconsin–Madison

Spain: Maggie Vear

Program: IES Barcelona, Spring

Maggie’s Major: Kinesiology

Maggie sits on a bench with a colorful, mosaic tile on the back, overlooking the many buildings and cathedrals of Barcelona.
Took a trip to Park Guell when my parents came to visit in March!

How were your program academics similar or different from taking classes at UW-Madison?

In Barcelona, I took classes both through IES and at a local university, UAB. I really liked the opportunity to switch between both universities! I definitely spent a lot more time commuting between the buildings than at Madison, but really enjoyed being able to explore different areas of the city.

What is a custom, food or tradition from your host country that you are taking forward? 

Two people stand on a stone path overlooking rocky mountains covered in trees. Two brown dogs are on the path near them.
My roommate and I hiking Montserrat, a peak about 45 minutes outside of Barcelona by train.

While staying in a homestay, I most looked forward to my host mom’s tortilla de patatas. During my last week abroad, I spent time with her in the kitchen learning how to make it. I will definitely be taking this recipe home and trying it out!

What did you learn about yourself or the world because of your experience?

I learned how to be more independent through my experience in Barcelona. A lot of the day I spent alone, and I loved being able to journal about the city and stop in at new cafes. I became confident in navigating myself in new places and was grateful for all the opportunities to spend time reflecting.