Liam's Exchange to CEU San Pablo | Spain - Murdoch University Study Abroad and Exchange

It’s hard to accurately sum up university exchange in a way that’s relatable just because they are a uniquely individual experience that impacts you so much in such a short time. The story of my exchange should begin at the beginning; it was a classic lightbulb moment chatting to strangers (on their own exchange) at an outdoor bar in Colombia “too good to be true” I thought at the time “a way for me to combine a semester of study with my newly found passion for travel.”

You’d better believe it!

A university exchange offers this but so much more; transported away from everything you know and settled in a city of your choosing, an exchange offers a blank slate to do as you please. To me this is where the excitement lies; the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, leave behind all support structures, dive into new experiences, be exposed to new ideas, meet people from all around the world even losing a familiar culture is a shock to the system but ultimately helps you to learn about the world and yourself.

I chose to go on exchange in Madrid, a vibrant city that cares not for organisation (things work in a uniquely Spanish way) where its history melds with an active population always protesting or partying! I was lucky enough to find an apartment in the centre of the city where I could watch activity on the streets at all hours of the day.

I was lucky enough to meet some amazing people during my time there, one of my favourite memories was road tripping with some new Spanish friends out to their hometown of Los Molinos a tiny 700-year-old town for the annual harvest festival. This was the time of year where thousands return from the city for a party lasting the whole weekend. Dancing to reggaeton, drinking local Tinto de Verano (Spanish summer wine) and being welcomed by their friends and family was an amazing feeling and encapsulated Spanish culture for me.

Make no mistake, a semester abroad challenged me in ways I never thought about, losing all existing support structures and a familiar culture was difficult but ultimately gives you a chance to learn what you’re capable of. My exchange started off rocky, landing in Madrid after a redeye flight from London I realised I’d left both my phone and wallet on-board (top tip: store a bank card or money separate from your wallet – I learnt the hard way). Stuck in an unfamiliar city with only 20€ in my pocket I had to resist the urge to freak out and instead find a solution, it took a few days but sure enough I was reunited with my belongings.

Going abroad to study affords you the chance to learn outside of the normal, familiar educational system. These experiences of the last 9 months have influenced me in ways I do not yet fully understand but already I feel more self-aware, open-minded and independent with more to offer the world. I have a greater appreciation for differing perspectives and cultures as well as the confidence to strike conversation with others that I believe will be useful in all future endeavours.