Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

Hello! My name is Leslie Garcia, and I am a junior studying biology at Lake Forest College. I have the privilege to take biochemistry courses at Murcia University. Adjusting to life in Spain was reasonably smooth, since I have met kind locals and people who are also studying abroad at Murcia. I am happy that I was able to take part in this experience because it has allowed me to gain new experiences in which I learn more about myself and what I want in my life. Coming to Spain was a dream of mine, so being here feels surreal. I have also learned to become more independent, and I made my first solo trip to Budapest, Hungary. I have also been able to travel to Barcelona, Glasgow, Geneva, Cartagena, Santorini, and Valencia during my time abroad. I am also planning to go to Nice and Lisbon.

There are a lot of aspects of my study abroad experience that I enjoy, such as the numerous coffee and bakery shops in Europe. I love that I can go to new ones every day. The architecture here in Murcia and Europe, in general, is beautiful, and I purposely take my time walking through the streets to admire them. I am so grateful to Lake Forest College for having this program. I would not have met the wonderful people and friends I made, and there is no other way in which I could have made the memories that I will always cherish for the rest of my life.

The Cathedral of Murcia: