Madrid, Barcelona, Marbella. These will all be familiar as potential holiday destinations, but they’re also a handful of the many well established places where you can study in Spain. Home to 76 universities, of which 12 are ranked in the top 500 universities in the world according to the to the QS World University Rankings 2015/16, Spain is fast becoming one of the best places to study.
If you’re thinking about studying in Spain, there are a few things that every potential student should know. Take a look at these tips, pick your university and start planning for the practicalities of moving to Spain.
Don’t go in blind
Take advantage of one of the many cheap holidays on offer and experience the country as a tourist before taking the plunge. Immerse yourself in the culture, practice your Spanish and get to know Spain. Giving yourself a feel for what the people are like and some of the local customs will reduce the element of culture shock that many students studying abroad experience and allow you to focus on making some new friends and enjoying yourself!
Make friends with local students
When you’re studying overseas, naturally it can be tempting to stick to a group of friends who share the same nationality as you. They can help you out when you’re feeling homesick and want to speak your native tongue, but it’s also really important to integrate with Spanish students to ensure you get the most out of your experience studying abroad.
Not only will they have the best local bar and restaurant tips, but you’ll learn more from them about Spanish culture than anyone else and you’ll probably pick up some of the unique local idioms that language books could never teach you!
August is extremely busy
If you do find yourself feeling a little homesick, August is probably the best time for your family to pay you a visit! Popular with tourists and Spaniards alike, August is the busiest time of year in Spain. Take advantage of your location in Spain to enjoy the beaches, bars and temperatures that make Spain an adored August holiday destination.
Practice, practice, practice!
Living in another country is the perfect opportunity to practice your language skills. Don’t be embarrassed to use them! No matter how good or bad your Spanish is initially, the only (and best!) way to improve is to keep practicing. So don’t let yourself off for not ordering meals or asking questions in Spanish, get out there and do it and you’ll surprise yourself by how quickly you learn and improve.
With these tips, you’re well equipped to make the most of living and studying in Spain— one of the most rewarding experiences a student can have. Embrace this opportunity and enjoy your time studying abroad.
Featured Image by keith ellwood used under CC license
