Emily Carbone ‘28
Study abroad is an invaluable part of the Holy Cross experience for many. The experience of studying in a foreign country and becoming fully immersed within their culture is one that cannot be replicated, and with over 70 study abroad opportunities available, around 40% of Holy Cross students decide to participate in a Maymester, semester abroad, or year abroad. Some of the most popular study abroad programs are those semester abroad opportunities that take place in other universities around the world, both language-immersive and English-speaking. While I am attending University College of Dublin this coming semester, I wanted to learn more about the experience of attending a language immersion program abroad. Among the students currently studying abroad at the Universidad de Granada are three of my friends: Leo McCartin, Matthew Aronsohn, and Seamus Andrews.
In order to study abroad in a language-immersion program, a student must have previously taken a 300-level course in the language. While it depends on the program, Leo, Seamus, and Matt are taking three Spanish classes with other English-speaking students, and one class with students from Spain. All of these classes are fully in Spanish. “It was definitely a challenge to adjust to having all of our classes in Spanish,” Seamus explained. “They definitely make sure we understand what they’re saying, but sometimes the Spanish students only speak to us in English because they think that we can’t understand them.” Leo added, “Since we’re living with host families, it’s also just an adjustment to live with a new person and become familiar with their routines.”
While modifying their daily routines has been somewhat of a challenge, the cohort of Holy Cross students in Granada for the Fall semester appears to be having a wonderful time. “It’s been so cool just getting to experience the culture. Everything is much cheaper here,” said Matt. Additionally, all three agreed that travel is convenient and the weather is beautiful.
Without variation, their favorite experience has been a beach trip that the three took to Mallorca. “We took a boat tour, which was just so fun,” explained Leo. “Transportation is just super easy, and we love the fact that we can experience both the culture of Granada and the culture of various other places as well,” Seamus added. “The lifestyle of Granada is super laid-back, so we’ve also just enjoyed taking it easy here,” Matt concluded.
Overall, Matt, Leo, and Seamus have enjoyed their time in Granada so far. While they are still growing accustomed to certain customs and traditions in Spain, they definitely think that their experience so far has been worth it. “I just feel like we’ve all improved so much in our Spanish, but aside from that, we’ve had experiences and made friends that we’ll just always remember,” Seamus reflected. I’m excited to see what my experience abroad will bring, and definitely encourage everyone to check out one of Holy Cross’ study abroad programs to see if it’s for you!
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