Haley Parker

Haley's Education Abroad Experience

"As a Spanish minor, I chose the Ronda, Spain: Spanish Language and Culture Program because I knew it provided me the resources to not only complete my minor but also truly immerse myself in the Spanish language and culture. Not only was the program affordable, but it had a reputation of being one of the best education abroad programs offered here at Penn State - a reputation it lived up to. It was recommended to me by professors and students alike and reached a wide range of applicants creating a diverse cohort.

Listed below are some of my highlights from my education abroad experience:

1. Experiencing growth in my Spanish listening, speaking, and writing abilities

2. Learning about the social, cultural, and political history of Spain

3. Eating some of the most amazing food I've ever had in my life!

4. Living with a host family!

5. Seeing so much of the beauty the natural world has to offer

6. Creating connections with strangers who quickly became friends through a uniquely shared experience

The thing that surprised me most about my experience abroad was how immersed I truly was by the end of the program. In a matter of weeks, I had a consistent routine, could navigate my way around the town, was a regular in certain restaurants and cafes, and had built connections with those native to the community and in my program in a second language. I built a life for myself in Spain, and it was beautiful and effortless.

The most important lesson I learned during my education abroad experience is that the world is so much more beautiful than I ever imagined. No matter if I was at the beach, on top of the mountains, in a cave, or simply in the streets of a new city, each and every landscape left me breathless. I grew a greater appreciation for the natural world around me; one that sticks with me today and it has allowed me to live a much more present life.

From the time I was a little girl, I dreamed of having the ability to speak Spanish and break down the language barrier between others and me. Since attending my program in Ronda, Spain, I am now equipped with the skills and confidence needed to conversate and connect with Spanish speakers on all levels. As an aspiring attorney, this newfound skill ensures that I will be able to connect with a wider range of clientele and reach communities I never thought possible before.

My advice would be to make sure you are financially prepared to participate in an education abroad program. Money goes fast when you're abroad, and between food, shopping, and experiences, you want to ensure you have enough financial resources to experience them all! I'd definitely recommend applying for grants and scholarships both inside and outside of Penn State, as well as being realistic about what your budget and spending may look like."