The idea of studying abroad intrigues and excites many students. Maybe you love the idea of traveling and living abroad in a bustling city but aren’t sure what the “studying” part actually looks like. I’ll give you a glimpse into what academics in Spain are really like and 6 reasons why you might like taking classes abroad better than in the U.S.
1. Awesome professors
One of the best parts of my academic experience in Spain has been the professors. Of course every prof is unique, but overall, their quirkiness, humor, and ability to capture attention make the longer classes here fun and enjoyable. They are used to working with study abroad students from various countries, including the United States. Sometimes they like to pick on American students, but it always results in a good laugh for everyone.
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| Jokes and laughter are a common occurrence in the classroom |
2. Class structure and values
What professors value most is the class's participation and involvement. They are happy to answer any question or repeat an explanation because they want to make sure everyone understands. There's also room for discussion and disagreement because profs also value bringing in everyone's different cultural experiences. There is just a more relaxed feeling overall.
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| Many professors also like to incorporate videos, songs, and other technology in the classroom |
3. Homework, or lack thereof
The homework load here is considerably less. This is dangerous to say, I know. But since the classes are longer, a lot more material is covered each class, which makes paying attention, participating, and taking good notes a must.
4. Grading scale
The Spanish system grades on a scale from 1-10, both for assignments and for the final class grade. Even though the ratio is more or less the same to a 100% or 1000-point scale, it’s less intimidating. While a high number is important for a good grade, I find myself worrying less about the number and more about showing my profs what I've learned, which is what they want in the first place.
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| The multimedia classroom is a great place to get work done between classes |
5. Cheap textbooks
Textbooks here are dirt cheap. To give you an idea of what I mean, I'm taking five classes this semester; I only had to buy books for two of them; each book cost 5 euros each. 10 euros total. If you're worried about study abroad being expensive, know that the cost of books here is a fraction of what the average student pays for books in the U.S.
6. Opportunities for new friendships
The Center for Modern Languages in Granada hosts students from a variety of study abroad programs for college students and universities, so every class consists of a diverse mix of people from all over the U.S. and the world. It´s a great opportunity to meet new people outside of the CEA program and make even more connections and new friendships with people who share the same interests and passions.
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| Students meet on the patio to catch up for a few minutes between classes |
Anastasia K. is the Spring 2018 MOJO in Granada, Spain. She is currently a Junior studying English at Liberty University.