During the spring semester of my junior year, I chose to study overseas in Bilbao, Spain, at the University of Deusto. I had never been overseas for such a long time and I didn’t know what to expect. I just knew that I wanted to go explore the world!
When I landed in Bilbao, I was met by my host family and immediately realized that I didn’t know as much Spanish as I thought I did. I became nervous that I had chosen the wrong program. However, as soon as I saw the beautiful city, my feelings shifted and I began to look forward to my program.
On my first day of class, my ‘host mom’ walked me to the university and, without pausing, immediately began introducing me to the other students… talk about awkward! However, many of these people quickly became my friends who I would later share great memories with. As the semester progressed, I loved Bilbao more and more. I enjoyed everything from walking to the university, to exploring nearby restaurants, and meeting the locals. I visited the Martina de Zuricalday bakery every Tuesday for half-priced desserts. I ate pintxo with my friends after late classes. The longer I stayed, the more I loved my program.
I sincerely enjoyed every day that I was in Spain and, due to the amount of time I was in Europe, I was able to visit other cities and countries as well. I loved Bilbao so much that I plan on permanently relocating to the Basque Country someday. I cannot recommend studying abroad enough. You have the opportunity to make great friends and memories. I encourage students to take a chance. Take a chance and pick a program you want to do. Go explore the world! It will surprise you, and it is the adventure of a lifetime.
Kate Jolly, UMW Class of 2020