Spain: Lola Sweesy

Program: IES Barcelona, Spring

Major: Consumer Behavior and Marketplace Studies

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

Throughout my four months in Barcelona, I learned many things about both myself and the world. Starting with myself, I learned that it is super important to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Before going abroad, I would have never been able to start conversations with strangers, communicate in a different language, or have half of the independence that I do now. Outside of my own personal growth, I learned how important it is to see the world and embrace different cultures. It is so crazy how many things you can learn by exploring different parts of the world that you have never considered seeing before.

What is your most memorable experience from your program?

My most memorable experience from my program was when my culinary professor took my classmates and me to a cooking class. This was super cool for me because it is one thing to be living in Barcelona and eating different foods, but super cool to take it to the next level and be able to prepare a variety of dishes that represent Spanish culture. Everyone in the class got split into groups and we all got to prepare different items that we would see in a typical restaurant in Barcelona. This was a variety of tapas (smaller appetizers), a main dish, and a beverage. As a whole, it was super cool to learn the backgrounds of these dishes while getting to experience a new culture.

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

In my opinion, the academics in my program were pretty different from taking classes at UW–Madison. The biggest difference that stood out to me was the way classes were taught. At UW, almost every class requires a laptop or some other device for taking notes, completing worksheets, or following along with lectures. Most classes are lecture-based and are usually followed by a separate discussion section or work that has to be done outside of class. In Barcelona, though, devices were rarely allowed in class. Most classes were either paper-and-pencil-based or focused on class discussions every day. I really liked this because everyone was much more engaged and paid attention to what was going on instead of getting distracted by their computers.

Another difference was how hands-on many of the classes were. We got to actually experience what we were learning instead of just reading or talking about it. For example, in my city class, we went on field trips to places we were discussing in class and in my culinary class, we got to meet chefs and take a cooking class. Those experiences made the material feel a lot more real and memorable.

What is your advice for someone considering your program?

My advice for anyone who is wanting or thinking about studying abroad is to just go for it. Choosing to study in Barcelona was easily the best decision I have ever made in my life. Stepping outside of your comfort zone is always hard, but an opportunity like this is not something to pass up! This program gives you the chance to learn new things about yourself, have the freedom of learning more about Spanish culture, and travel around the world. For me, embracing every challenge, saying “yes”, and pushing myself have made this decision beyond worthwhile. You will come back with not only unlimited memories but also a new perspective that will stay with you long after the program ends.