Studying abroad is one of the most attractive opportunities you have as a student. Besides giving you the opportunity to learn a new language, it puts you in contact with a new culture – something that’s guaranteed to teach you life lessons – at a time in your life when traveling is relatively easy.
Studying abroad in Spain to learn Spanish is attractive because Spanish is arguably the second-most important language in the world and Spain is a fascinating country to visit, with a lifestyle at once dynamic and relaxed.
Spanish culture is uniquely open and fun loving. Few visitors to the country fail to appreciate the country’s charming disposition to the enjoyment of life; its meandering boardwalks, bustling plazas and familiar café’s cast a spell on the soul that’s hard to forget.
Being immersed in a Spanish-speaking environment is the best way to absorb the language; you’ll practice it in and outside of the classroom, and your ears will take it in like a consistent daily diet. It shouldn’t be forgotten, however, that learning never comes automatically; hard work and persistence are definitely required to take in a new language.
Spanish is a valuable commodity to have in today’s world, where over 400 million people speak it as their foreign language, and where over 20 countries have adopted it as the official language.
In many European countries as well as the U.S., knowledge of Spanish is considered a premium by employers and rewarded accordingly. Studies in a foreign country is also an excellent way to brighten up your CV or resume. It shows a degree of determination and willingness to face new situations that speaks well of your personal attributes.
For business students, Spain is a great place to do a semester abroad because of its model economy (which has made tremendous strides in the decades following the death of dictator Franco) and its unique position in Europe as a bridge to Latin America.
This connection to Latin America also makes Spain appealing to students with an interest in international politics. Spain plays a decisive role in the Hispanic world and an increasingly important role in European politics as well, as more Spaniards each year are named heads of European agencies.
Finally, those looking forward to a career in the field of sports and sports marketing should definitely consider a semester abroad or an international internship in Spain – particularly in Barcelona, the country’s most international city.
The world of sports in Barcelona was forever revolutionized by the 1992 Olympics, which added tremendous infrastructure and laid the groundwork for its position today as a center for international sports. Today, Spain maintains a strong presence in the sporting world and is a favorite location for events such as the 2007 America’s Cup regatta and the Grand Prix in August 2008.
Knowing Spanish opens up a whole world of travel, art and literature; of coming into contact and interacting with new people, cultures and ideas. And what better place to learn the language than its birthplace? Studying Spanish in Spain is at once useful and profoundly enjoyable.
Surrounded by the friendly people, fascinating history and enchanting landscapes of this exciting and dynamic country, you’re not likely to regret your decision to study abroad in Spain.
Written by: Patrick Collins who works for Go Study Spain, a website that offers Spanish courses in Spanish universities.
