Rylee Bezoni

Major: Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Studies
Class: Junior
Timeframe: Summer 2024
Type of Experience: Study Abroad
Program: ISU on the Mediterranean: Summer in Valencia, Spain
Destination: Spain

Overall Experience

One piece of advice I would give for other students who want to study abroad or are studying abroad soon is to soak in every moment in the main city where you are staying. Many people think that they have to go to a different country or city every weekend when they study abroad, but you absolutely don't have to. I traveled a few weekends, but most weekends I stayed in Valencia. There were so many things to do in Valencia, and many of these experiences were some of the best I had while studying abroad. Therefore, I would recommend exploring and doing everything the city where you are staying has to offer before going off to another city to explore. A few others who studied abroad with me expressed their regrets in not doing and experiencing more in Valencia.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience I had was interacting with the locals in Valencia. Almost everyone I met was incredibly kind and caring. On one of the first days taking public transportation alone, I got lost and felt a bit nervous being in an unknown city. I used my Spanish to ask a local on the bus for help. Even though my Spanish wasn't perfect, she understood and was happy to help. She even spoke to the bus driver to make sure I got off at the right stop. This experience taught me that locals truly appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak Spanish. I also learned that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of, and many native speakers are grateful when non-native speakers try to communicate in their language, even if it's not perfect.

Memorable experience

My most memorable experience from studying abroad was the bond I formed with my host family. I initially thought it would just be a place to stay while I was in Spain, but they turned out to be incredibly welcoming and supportive. My two host sisters, who are high school students learning English, and I instantly connected. We helped each other with our languages and enjoyed sharing stories about our lives and the cultural differences between the U.S. and Spain. Finally, my host mom is a superhero, juggling housework, motherhood, a job, and hosting students from different countries. While I was there, she hosted students from the United States, France, and Italy, creating a truly international and enriching environment.

What did you not expect?

One thing that surprised me from my study abroad experience was the pace and perspective of life in Spain. Life there is slow and carefree, with locals deeply appreciating the little things in life. They would rather be late to an event than cut short a conversation with a good friend. Nothing is taken for granted, and gratitude is a significant part of their daily lives. I saw this firsthand and have tried to bring this mindset back to my life in the U.S. For example, when packing to return home, I couldn't fit some small hygiene items like dry shampoo in my suitcase, so I offered them to my host sister. She was incredibly grateful and thanked me multiple times, showing me how much even small gestures are appreciated.

What advice would you give?

One piece of advice I would give to other students planning to study abroad is to fully immerse yourself in the main city where you are staying. Many people think they must travel to different countries or cities every weekend when they study abroad, but that is unnecessary. While I traveled a few weekends, I spent most of my time exploring Valencia, and those experiences were some of my best. Valencia offered many activities and sights that made my study abroad experience special. So, I recommend exploring and enjoying everything your host city has to offer before venturing off to other places. Some of my fellow students expressed regret for not spending more time exploring Valencia, and I am so glad I did!

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has tremendously impacted various aspects of my life. Personally, studying abroad experience has made me more confident in myself and my ability to navigate unknown places independently. It was my first time traveling out of the country, let alone doing it alone. I proved to myself that I could handle it. Exploring Valencia solo was often peaceful and rewarding. Educationally, I've gained a deeper cultural awareness and practical experience with the Spanish language. Immersion in the culture and customs taught me more than a traditional class ever could. With this new knowledge and perspective, I feel better equipped to support and teach my future students as a Spanish educator.

How did you learn about this experience?

I learned about this opportunity a few of my Spanish classes that I have taken at Iowa State. The professors posted about it on Canvas, and some speakers came into one of my classes and talked about the opportunity. From there, I decided to attend one of the sessions for this program and talk to one of the LAS study abroad advisors who knew more about this specific program.

International Connections