I wanted to have the experience of being a local in a foreign country

Why did you decide to study abroad?

I decided to study abroad because I wanted to have the experience of being a local in a foreign country. I wanted to meet people from all around the world and build an international friend group. I chose a Spanish university because I had recently started learning Spanish and saw it as a perfect opportunity to improve.

What were your top 3 highlights whilst studying abroad?

Meeting people from all around the world and getting to know their culture was a key highlight for me. They were able to show me regions of Spain I wouldn't have considered visiting before and they provided me with a greater insight into Spanish culture.

Being able to study in an different environment at a prestigious university felt special. At the time you don't always appreciate it but when you come back you miss it and value it far more. Even though my teaching was in English, there was a different style which I had to get used to and in the end preferred.

Studying abroad offers a great opportunity to travel. I managed to visit 11 out of 17 regions of Spain whilst I was over there, which really broadened my experience and allowed me to see the differences between regions.

What would you say to someone who was unsure about spending a period abroad?

I would say that I have never met anyone that has studied abroad and regrets doing so. For most courses it is an additional year and is pass or fail, which takes the pressure off your studies and allows you to really enjoy the time you have over there. You can recharge your batteries and come back energised for final year.

What is the one thing you wish you'd known before you left?

I wish I'd known how bureaucratic the visa process was before I'd left as I would have been more prepared for it. Spain is one of the most difficult countries to get a visa for after Brexit because the embassy is understaffed and bureaucratic. The university now offer talks to help with this process, which I would definitely recommend if you are going to Spain.

For students who will be arriving in Sheffield, what are your top recommendations for things to do and see in Sheffield?

I would recommend people to maximise having the Peak District so close by. I went a few times this academic year but feel like I didn't go enough. It is a welcome break from studies and the city and hiking is great exercise. If you are interested in watching sports there are many options in Sheffield. For example, there are two football teams, Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday. The tickets are fairly reasonable and easy to come by. I also went to this Varsity Ice Hockey which was really enjoyable and there are regular games played by the Sheffield Steelers at the Utilita Arena. I haven't been myself but there is also the Crucible, the home of World Championship Snooker.