After deciding to commit to Florida State University (FSU) for her college career, Aiven Davis made the bold step to spend her first year abroad and settled on exploring Valencia, Spain. Since this is not the typical college freshman experience, I had many questions (as I’m sure many of you do too). FSU’s study abroad program is very unique compared to those of other universities, and Aiven is able to experience this firsthand.
Her Campus (HC): What made you choose FSU’s study abroad program? Specifically, why Valencia?
Aiven Davis (AD): I have always had a passion for traveling and FSU’s program allowed me to do a full year, which is what I really wanted. I specifically chose Valencia because I have always wanted to go to Spain and the classes offered at this location better aligned with my academic goals. I have plans to learn some Spanish here and I’ll continue that once I get back to Tallahassee. I also wanted to be in Europe, where I would be able to easily travel to other countries during my year abroad. I became really confident in my decision of going to Valencia after researching the city because I was just immediately drawn to the culture here!
HC: Do you feel that the FSU spirit is alive all the way in Spain?
AD: Definitely! We are surrounded by mainly FSU students in our day-to-day lives, so we have that sense of community. We also have had a game day where we streamed the game at 2 a.m. and watched it all together. Even just walking around the area of the city where we are, we can see other students in their FSU merchandise. Maybe we don’t have the same feel as living on campus, but still, there is a strong FSU spirit!
HC: What is your favorite aspect of FSU Valencia?
AD: Ahh, I don’t know if I could pick a favorite aspect. So far, I just love so much about it, honestly. I love our location, it’s perfect. We are pretty central to the city, but not a far tram ride from the beach. I love the different excursions and activities that are planned for us. Recently, we went on a trip to the Winery Chozas Carrascal!
HC: What have you learned about Spanish culture since living in Valencia?
AD: After two weeks of living in Valencia, I already feel like I have learned quite a bit about Spanish culture. Several differences stand out, however, these differences are exciting and interesting and encourage me to immerse myself so I can adapt. The first thing I really realized was the music here in Valencia. Outside of my apartment, we are able to hear people performing music almost all the time, which is so cool, but something I am definitely not used to. The food is also different, but delicious, so far I have loved all the dishes I have tried! I enjoy getting a bocadillo in between my classes and paella for dinner.
HC: What are some culture shocks you experienced after moving there? Have you dealt with any challenges regarding learning Spanish?
AD: I don’t think I have experienced too many cultural shocks since arriving here. I have a more difficult time getting some items at the grocery stores, and they eat dinner a lot later here, but it’s pretty easy to adapt to. I have had some challenges with not being able to speak Spanish. It makes it difficult to get around as easily as I would be able to back home. Luckily, two of my roommates speak Spanish, so this has helped a lot!
HC: What are some of the benefits of studying abroad with FSU that other study abroad programs may not have?
AD: For me, I had originally known that no matter what, during my college experience I wanted to study abroad. After looking at several programs, I found that not as many schools offer a full-year program which was a huge benefit for me because I wanted to do more than a semester. The program here is also pretty big, which allows me to meet many other FSU students. The staff here is also super amazing, and we have our own buildings for classes which makes things less overwhelming. Of course, a huge benefit is being able to qualify for in-state tuition after completing my first year abroad.
HC: What fears did you have going into studying abroad?
AD: I think my biggest fears were just how I was going to adjust to a totally new culture, while also being away from my family for the first time. So, while dealing with the typical adjustment to college we are also forced to adapt to their customs. Although this has proven to be a little difficult, I also feel like I have a lot of independence now which is exciting for me. The language barrier was also a fear of mine.
HC: How do you deal with homesickness when studying abroad?
AD: As of right now, I feel that I have been so busy immersing myself in the culture and enjoying the activities to feel homesick. So, in that sense, I suppose for me the best way to deal with homesickness is just to remain busy by engaging in activities that excite me! Luckily, there have been many already!
HC: What is some advice you would give to anyone debating doing an FSU study abroad program?
AD: I would tell anyone who is debating it, to just go ahead and do it! Already, just two weeks in, it has been one of the most life-changing experiences I have undergone. Experiencing a new culture through living there instead of just visiting is completely different. To be able to further my education while also having this opportunity is so amazing. I would also say to be open to new experiences and go in with an open mind. Don’t expect your time studying abroad to go one way, because it may be completely different, but just as fantastic!
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