Studying and living abroad takes a huge leap of faith and confidence but it is worth every single bit of it.
Why did you decide to study abroad?
I decided to study abroad because I really wanted to have a cultural experience studying and living in a country where the native language was not English. I wanted to challenge myself, get out of my comfort zone, enhance my Spanish language skills and develop my journalistic skills abroad. I also was determined to travel as much as possible and have some wonderful and unique experiences!
What were your top 3 highlights whilst studying abroad?
Travelling! I have had some absolutely phenomenal travel experiences, travelling right across Spain, the Iberian Peninsula and visiting Morocco - travelling to Africa for the first time! Each travel experience has brought me some incredible memories, enabled me to make some wonderful friends and helped build my confidence enormously. Visiting the Sahara Desert was a dream come true for me!
Languages! This year has been incredible for developing my language skills. I have had so many opportunities to practise and use my Spanish this year and now I am in a place where I consider myself fluent in Spanish. I have also been able to use my French by living with lots of French and French-speaking students this year and Portuguese while travelling across Portugal!
Boosting my journalistic skills. I have harnessed this year to set up my YouTube channel and film my own travel vlogs of my adventures across Spain and beyond. This has been a massive boost as I pursue a career in TV Journalism and my dream as a travel documentary presenter!
What would you say to someone who was unsure about spending a period abroad?
Just go for it! It is the best decision I have ever made. Studying and living abroad takes a huge leap of faith and confidence but it is worth every single bit of it. Through the challenges and travel experiences, I have taken my self-confidence to new heights. It is an absolutely phenomenal opportunity to have unique life experiences, fulfil some life dreams, take yourself far out of your comfort zone and become an even more fearless human being! You will not regret one bit of it!
What is the one thing you wish you'd known before you left?
To have had a bit more of an insight into the immigration challenges. Getting the visa is not always the end of the line with immigration challenges and there may be additional challenges when you get out there. Get a head start and fully educate yourself about the immigration requirements during the whole of your stay abroad as this will enable you to have as smooth an experience as possible when out there!
For students who will be arriving in Sheffield, what are your top recommendations for things to do and see in Sheffield?
Sheffield is such a green city and so make the most of Sheffield's beautiful parks and green spaces! Get out and explore the magnificent Peak District!
The University of Sheffield has such a fantastic array of societies so make the most of these and join societies that interest you. They are run by brilliant people and there so many things to get involved in. Try new things out and meet new people who share similar interests! Throw yourself into different sports and try your hand at new activities!