Testimonials

"On Tuesday, April 30th, we had our first official day of classes. The topic of focus that day was religious architecture. The professor was very educated about the topic and worked as an architect in Burgos. We learned a lot about 16th century Gothic-style architecture, and how important it was to be incorporated in the city's cathedrals and monasteries. Following our classroom time, we actually got to tour the Cathedral of Burgos, which was a personal highlight. Learning about the cathedral in the classroom was one thing, but being able to actually see it in real life made the learning that much more exciting. I felt so much more immersed in the learning experience since we could see things first hand."

"I know the whole experience wouldn't have been the same without the people involved - our cozy travel group, UBU's amazing host, our funny driver, and all those people we met along the way. Over the course of a few weeks we got to experience Spain as a team, and through the whole journey we shared stories and thoughts. We never stopped discovering more about the people in our group. The shared experience is personally what makes the trip more memorable."

"I love to travel and learn, but I always have to push myself in order to experience these things. When we started our journey to Burgos I was a little overwhelmed. I am severely anxious flyer and I also do not like being away from home for long periods of time. This study abroad experience forced me out of my comfort zone and pushed to experience a whole university, city, and country."

"Before I went on this trip I knew nothing about the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, and when I first got there I did not really understand why somebody would want to do it. But learning about the Camino and walking it for those three days taught me so much about myself and about good community. I learned to try and enjoy everything as it comes, even if it is hard, or a different experience than I was expecting. I would be excited to come back and do the whole Camino, because it is about more than just what we see."

"Travelling to Spain for two and a half weeks with my peers was an adventure of a lifetime and relates directly to my major in Applied Communication, Leadership, and Culture. The content of the course, paired with the countless excursions, and amazing professors and guides, was unforgettable. I cannot express how grateful I am for being able to participate in an experiential learning course. These are the types of experiences that students need to incorporate into their degrees as they help increase confidence and cultural awareness, while promoting self-discovery."

"The [Castillo de Castrojeriz] was an awesome experience as the road to the castle is quite a long trek uphill and really tested some in the group, including me, after the 10km walk to get to the village. It was a real bonding experience for many in the group, and those who made the hike up to the castle were happy to discover we could make it. The visit gave great hope that our future walk was possible!"

"My most memorable and delightful moment of the entire study abroad was when the group was treated to a traditional Galician meal prepared by the inn keepers wife and her friends. The preparation began roughly two days upon our arrival and they served and hosted our group with care, compassion, and kindness. I have never in my life felt so happy to be at a dinner table, sharing a meal with new friends that will last a lifetime. This opportunity formed many experiences, lessons, and traditions that I will carry forever."

"I loved [walking the Camino de Santiago] because I met so many new, friendly people from all over the world and was able to hear some of their stories. I also really enjoyed walking by myself sometimes too because I was able to be alone with my thoughts -- and activity that I do not normally do. It was refreshing to not always feel like I had to be distracted by my phone or a book or an activity. The landscape was gorgeous too; we walked through forests, fields, and villages and were able to properly take it all in instead of whizzing by it in a car. After each day I felt a sense of accomplishment from both the exercise and being lucky enough to see the beautiful environment."