An Unforgettable Semester Abroad in Barcelona August 28, 2026
By A student (Marketing, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities) - abroad from 01/05/2026 to 04/25/2026 with
CET Barcelona
My experience abroad taught me so much about connecting with the local culture, adapting to a completely new country, and becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable. Living in Barcelona pushed me outside of my comfort zone and challenged me to navigate unfamiliar situations independently. I learned to be more open-minded, adaptable, and confident while experiencing a different culture and way of life. It was absolutely worthwhile and helped me grow both personally and academically in ways I never could have by staying in my comfort zone.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 0-2 weeks |
Review Your Program
|
* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
|
|
* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
|
|
* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
|
| * Food: |
|
|
* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
|
|
* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
|
| * Safety: |
|
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
Yes, absolutely! I would choose the same program again without hesitation. I loved the onsite staff, the classes, my living situation, and the area of Barcelona I lived in. The people I met made the experience even more special, and I learned so much both inside and outside of the classroom. Most importantly, I grew so much personally and gained confidence, independence, and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. |
Finances
|
* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
|
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | Yes |
|
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?
0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language |
|
| How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? | Beginner |
| How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? | Intermediate |
| What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? | High School Spanish |
| How many hours per day did you use the language? |
Other Program Information
|
* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
|
|
* Who did you take classes with?
Select all that apply |
|
| About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? |
A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
|
| * What could be improved? |
|
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I had known just how different the Spanish spoken in Barcelona can be from the Mexican Spanish I was already comfortable and confident speaking. I quickly learned that accents, vocabulary, expressions, and even the presence of Catalan could make communication feel very different from what I was used to. It was challenging at first, but it ultimately pushed me to become a more adaptable and confident Spanish speaker. |
Reasons For Studying Abroad
| To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you. |
The NetworkerAn active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume. |
