I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain, in Spring 2025, an experience that taught me independence and adaptability. I lived in the Latina neighborhood with seven other CIEE students, with easy access to public transportation that connected me to central Madrid and my university, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M). I took courses in advanced Spanish, literary gender, sports anthropology, and Cervantes literature—classes that deepened my language skills and understanding of Spanish culture, especially the country’s strong emphasis on sports and physical wellness.

Outside academics, I explored the cities of Toledo and Ciudad Real. Toledo felt like stepping into the Medieval era, with stone bridges and historic churches, while Ciudad Real offered windmills, flour-based desserts, and cave-style homes. I also took traditional cooking classes, went bowling and rollerskating, worked out at the UC3M gym, and explored Madrid’s vibrant neighborhoods. Thanks to a lighter academic workload, I was able to fully immerse myself in Madrid’s culture. The affordable red metro card allowed unlimited travel for just eight euros every four weeks. Compared to New York City, Madrid felt cleaner, safer, and more affordable. Even with a brief blackout, the experience was transformative and remarkable.