Andrew

What language did you study and why?
Having built a strong foundation in my Spanish skills throughout high school, which sparked my desire to become fluent and eventually work in Spain, I knew that studying abroad in a Spanish-speaking country in college would be the best way accelerate my language learning. I have always sought out ways to gain a deeper meaning of global connections through Spanish language, and studying Spanish as part of Northwestern’s Spanish Language and Culture Summer 2022 Program in Barcelona was the ideal way for me to improve my Spanish while making memories that will last well beyond my college years.

What program did you attend and why did you choose it?
I attended NU’s Spanish Language and Culture Summer Program in Barcelona. This specific program caught my attention due to the specialized curriculum Northwestern and the Universitat Pompeu Fabra have constructed for Northwestern students. The program also made the most sense given my future aspiration to work in Spain after graduation. Not only did studying in Barcelona allow me to absorb Spanish culture and traditions, but it also enabled me to refine my Spanish accent and jargon specific to Spain and its various regions.

Describe your experience doing summer language study. Was it tricky? How do you think your language skills improved?
My summer language study experience was incredible. The ULG made it possible for me to take advantage of everything my program had to offer. Of course, language learning in another country inevitably leads to challenges in adjusting to a foreign way of life. That said, many of my favorite memories were the result of being put in new contexts and learning to embrace cultural and linguistic differences. While regularly speaking the target language with classmates, professors, and locals can be intimidating, I found that my language confidence improved immensely the more I leaned into the language and spoke it as often as I could. As a result of my experience, I can confidently say I am a better Spanish speaker and a more thoughtful global citizen.

Did intensive summer language study change or solidify any of your future goals? If so, how?
My summer experience certainly solidified my love of Spanish language and culture, improved my skills, and assured me that my professional path should take me to Spain. Upon returning to campus from my summer abroad, I have continued my Spanish studies in classes and am seeking out work experiences in Spain. In fact, I just applied to a Madrid-based internship for the upcoming summer — a position that I would not have felt qualified to apply for if I had not participated in the Barcelona program. Pursuing the language study experience has prepared me to work, live, and make an impact in a Spanish-speaking country.

Do you have any tips or advice for students similar to you that are interested in pursing intensive language study?
My biggest piece of advice for future students would be to find ways to authentically practice your language of study. There is no replacement for intensive language practice with native speakers, so take advantage of every opportunity in order to refine you skills. One of my favorite memories from my experience over the summer was making connections with local store owners. I would go to the market and bakery each morning and have great conversations with the locals who began to recognize me as a regular and would always speak Spanish with me. It was such an amazing way to authentically practice my language skills while meeting people I never would have met if it weren’t for the ULG and this experience.