Sven in Spain

What was your main motivation to go abroad?

I wanted to experience something different during my studies and immerse myself in another culture. Throughout my degree, I also met several students who shared many positive stories about their semester abroad.

What were your biggest concerns?

I had no concerns, as I was already familiar with Spanish culture from holidays. Since I had never been to Madrid before and heard many positive experiences about the city, I was excited about the semester abroad right from the start.

Would you recommend a stay abroad? Why?

Absolutely! I was able to improve my English thanks to the many international students, and I also developed my Spanish since I needed it every day. I would also recommend a stay abroad because, compared to a holiday, you have much more contact with the local population, which I personally enjoy. Additionally, a semester abroad can open up more opportunities for the future, such as continuing to study or work in that country.

What did you learn from your stay abroad?

Studying in Spain is fantastic, but it's essential to have at least basic Spanish skills since not everything in daily life is translated into English. Madrid has popular tourist spots like Gran Vía and Retiro Park, but I especially enjoyed exploring areas frequented by locals, where you can experience things you wouldn’t find in Germany. For example, visiting bars in neighbourhoods on the outskirts or exploring districts with a strong South American influence. There are also many student trips to cities around Madrid, such as Toledo or Segovia, which you might not visit otherwise.

Were your expectations met?

My expectations were exceeded. I wanted to go to Spain primarily to improve my Spanish, and I ended up meeting many people, especially from South America, with whom I now stay in touch. The UCM is a top university in Spain, managing everything from enrolment to the exam period with great professionalism. It is an excellent choice for a semester abroad, even though my faculty (Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales) is not located in the city centre like some other universities.

Is there anything you would like to highlight about your experience abroad?

Perhaps because I’m blonde and blue-eyed, it was obvious that I’m not from Spain. People here in Spain were often surprised when I spoke Spanish with them. Speaking Spanish as someone who isn’t from Spain or Latin America is highly appreciated, and you often receive many compliments for it.

More impressions and information about Sven's experience abroad can be found on Instagram (opens in a new window).