Embracing Change Abroad

Words and photos by Faustina Tran, who studied abroad with ASA during Maymester 2026 in Barcelona, Spain.  

This past summer, I had the opportunity to take engineering communications in Barcelona. I had just finished my finals and exams and had one day to pack my whole life into a suitcase. I remember how most people had friends prior to the trip. They were traveling together while I was alone. I was worried that maybe this wasn’t the right choice. I was worried that studying abroad wasn’t going to be fun and that I would probably be staying in my room the entire time. 

I was incorrect.

I think that many students forget that this is also many other college students' first time going out of the country. The moment that ASA picked us up from the airport and placed us into our apartments, I remember feeling so much reassurance. The other students in my cohort and apartment were kind. I felt welcomed and included throughout my whole journey in Barcelona. I wasn’t used to cooking or navigating the streets, and I definitely will say there was a learning curve. Truly, if it wasn’t for putting myself in an uncomfortable position, I would’ve never been able to grow into the person that I am.

Being in another country allows you to learn so much outside of the classroom. I do believe I was privileged, though, as I had Dr Leclair as my professor. She made the academic course fun with stories and cared a lot about our class. She was the first professor that I had asked to have a coffee chat outside of class. I wanted to learn from her because she has this bright energy and a very articulate voice.

Another instance that I was worried about was the difference in culture. I don’t speak Spanish, so I didn’t know if it would be hard to communicate with locals if I did need something. Barcelona has so many English speakers that I never felt bad about speaking my own language. Most places even have menus with translations of what’s on them. Another difference in culture that I had to get used to was the eating schedule. In America, it’s typically breakfast at 9:00 am, lunch at 3:00 pm and dinner at 6:00 pm. I’ve realize that people in Spain use their eating time as a way to socialize so they can be at the restraints or cafe for hours. They eat breakfast at 7:00 am, lunch at 1:00 pm and dinner at 9:00 pm. I thought that this schedule was unique because there aren't many restaurants open during the 1-7 pm period as people nap. I also began adjusting to their schedule quickly and would hide from the sun during this time.

In conclusion, I wanted to share that choosing to study abroad can seem like a big step, but it is so worth it. You’ll never be 19 again, alone in another country figuring out small things like bus schedules or the nearest cheapest grocery stores with completely random college roommates. Even to this day, I’m still in contact with my roomies because it is definitely the people who make it special. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and promise you will not regret it!

Thanks, Faustina!