Talk to me about: Anything and everything! Studying abroad in Madrid through USC was an incredibly enriching experience that I cannot recommend enough. I was so nervous to take classes completely in Spanish and live with a host family, it has its ups and downs but it was amazing to fully immerse myself in Spanish culture and language. Studying in Spain has so many amazing opportunities, you never know if you’re going to explore another country on the weekends, go to a candle painting workshop with locals, attend a Real Madrid game, or wear matching “I <3 Madrid” shirts with the entire program on our last day. USC Madrid has truly given me a totally encapsulating experience of Spain and it can take a little while to get adjusted, so feel free to reach out with any questions 🙂

Advice: Embrace every opportunity and say yes to everything you can, whether it leads you to discovering the best vegan donuts in the city or exploring a royal palace just outside of Madrid. Staying organized is essential, as the balance between traveling, adventures, and academic work can be challenging, especially since studying in Spanish can take longer than you think. Be sure to pack wisely, bringing more than you think you’ll need, particularly medications and specific products like skincare or toiletries, as some medications available in the U.S. may not be available in Europe; it’s also a good idea to have some over-the-counter medications in case you get sick. While traveling around Europe is exciting, don’t forget to explore the city you’re living in—Madrid has so much to offer, from historic landmarks to hidden gems and amazing restaurants around the city, make the most of your time there. Finally, challenge yourself to meet and interact with people outside of the USC Madrid program, have conversations with locals and your host family to improve your Spanish, and gain a deeper understanding of Spanish culture from diverse perspectives.

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