Greetings From Spain! Spain! Spain!

Written by Anna Eason

Designed by Peyton Blumenfeld | Photography by Erin Herbers, Lita Lemmon

ThisSpring 2023 semester a group of students departed to Spain with the College of Communications (CCI) for a semester-long study abroad program. Ablaze has an inside scoop into the program as two of the graphic design team share their experience with the program so far.

The program allows students within CCI to learn about their specific majors, journalism, information sciences, public relations and communication studies, in a new environment. The students’ apartment is close to the beach in Valencia.

Valencia is a beautiful port city on Spain’s southeastern coast. Known for its beaches, walking trails, arts and museums, Valencia has much to offer to any potential student. With a population of around 790,000, it is the third most populated municipality in Spain.

The city is also known for its architecture. While walking through the city one can see many different examples of old Spanish architecture mixed with modern designs.

The City of Arts and Sciences, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain, can be found in Valencia. The architectural complex is a feat of modern architecture and brings in many students and tourists every year.

Lita Lemmon, a junior studying public relations, reflects on the beginning of her study abroad journey.

“I have settled in very nicely, although culture shock is real! I get waves of disorientation,” Lemmon said.

Erin Herbers, a junior studying advertising and graphic design, explains that she chose Spain partially for the internship.

“The idea of working internationally in advertising really appealed to me,” Herbers said.

The group is studying at the Universidad Catolica de Valencia, and the experience has been different yet rewarding. The language barrier has not been a large issue with classes because all of the professors speak English. However, the campus is spread widely across the city with buildings far apart.

Studying in a different country is not just about the classes; the culture plays a huge part in the experience as a whole.

“People are present and intentional about listening. There is always an absence of phones at restaurants and parks … the culture here is relaxed,” Lemmon said.

Members expressed that being in this different culture has taught them to sit back and not live fast-paced all of the time.

“It has truly made me realize how much I’m on my phone for no reason, and that I need to take a step back. I want to have deeper conversations with people,” Herbers said

Meals in Spain are said to be a much more engaging affair, often lasting hours and featuring people talking and listening to one another.

Erin also described the public transportation to be a highlight of the trip for her. While it is easy and nice to walk to most places in Spain, “it saves a lot of time and energy,” said Herbers.

When looking at the numerous study abroad programs that UT offers, you may question, ‘is this for me?’

Language is a key part of the study abroad experience, and it has seemed to heighten the experience for students who choose to go.

“It has been amazing. I would recommend the program to other students and encourage them to familiarize themselves with the language even if it is not a requirement,” Lemmon said.

Take it from our fellow Ablaze members; it is worth it to step out of your comfort zone and experience a new culture.