Spain: Carrie Semenas

Program: CIEE Summer Language and Culture in Alcala, Summer

Carrie’s Majors: Spanish, Neurobiology

How were your program academic similar and different from taking courses at UW-Madison?

The academics are similar to Spanish classes at UW, however in the classes in Spain, Spanish classes were much more relevant. For example, in my Gastronomy class, we learned about the history of Paella, and it’s importance to the Spanish culture. Unlike classes at UW, I was given the opportunity in Spain to then go to a local restaurant that specializes in paella. There, I learned more about the food and culture first hand.

What is your advice for someone considering your program?

I would advise people to make sure they have priorities of what you want out of a program before choosing your program. Like many that study abroad, one of my top priorities was practicing Spanish. I was very happy in Alcala de Henares in this regard. Because Alcala de Henares is a smaller city, there are less English speakers, making it easier to exclusively speak Spanish.

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

In Spain, it is very common to end a meal with fruit as a desert. I really enjoyed this while I was in Spain, and I hope to continue this more healthy alternative to dessert.