Sara Tran: Study Abroad in Madrid, Spain
Sara Tran is an MBS international student from Vietnam. She first came to Maine as a high school student, enrolling in the Maine Business School after graduation. The Finance and Marketing double major spent the Fall 2024 semester studying abroad in Madrid, Spain.
Why was it important to you to study abroad?
Studying abroad is not just about attending classes and acquiring academic knowledge. For me, it was an opportunity to break free from my comfort zone and discover new parts of myself. Studying abroad is about growth, transformation, and experiencing life in a whole new way.
What made you decide to study abroad in Spain?
After my first study abroad experience in the U.S., I realized how much I enjoyed immersing myself in different cultures, so I wanted to take on another challenge by studying in Europe. Spain, and specifically Madrid, stood out to me because of its rich culture, dynamic lifestyle, and strong academic reputation.
I also wanted to experience a country with a different pace of life compared to both Vietnam and the U.S. Spain has a very social and lively culture, and I was excited to embrace that. I had also heard great things from other Vietnamese students who had studied in Spain before, which reassured me that it would be a great experience.
What university did you study at, and what were the classes there?
I studied at the University Carlos III of Madrid (UC3M), which is known for its diverse, dynamic academic environment. The classes were a mix of theoretical and practical, and I found them engaging and thought-provoking. What stood out to me most was how the professors encouraged student participation and interactive learning. The pace of the courses was a bit different from what I was used to, and I had to adjust to the teaching style, but overall, it was a great experience. I took courses in Organizational Design, Digital Business, and Consumer Behavior, which gave me a unique perspective on how business operates in Europe compared to my experiences back home and in the U.S.
What was your life like as a student in Spain?
Life in Spain was a breath of fresh air compared to the fast-paced lifestyle in the U.S. I quickly noticed that the pace of life in Spain was much more relaxed. The mornings started slowly—I’d wake up at 8 am, make a simple breakfast, and enjoy a cup of hot tea before heading to my 9 am class. It was a calm way to ease into the day. Spanish class schedules were also much later than what I was used to in the U.S. The classes often ran until 9 pm, which, surprisingly, wasn’t out of the ordinary. The whole vibe in Spain felt more laid-back, and it was refreshing to experience a slower, more deliberate rhythm of life. People weren’t rushing everywhere like they sometimes do in the U.S. Instead, there was a sense of enjoying the present moment.
What was a cultural difference you noticed? How did you adapt to it?
One of the biggest cultural differences I encountered was the tradition of the “siesta.” In Spain, it’s common for people to take naps in the afternoon to recharge. This isn’t just an individual habit; even stores and businesses close for a few hours in the afternoon so everyone can rest. At first, it felt unusual, but I quickly got used to it and even started enjoying the midday break.
Another difference was the late dining hours. Spanish people typically have dinner around 9 or 10 pm and this became part of my routine as well. Social life often revolves around late evenings, and I had to adapt to this schedule. I also found it normal for people to grab a beer or go to a bar during the day, which was a fun and casual way to socialize. I fell in love with Spanish cuisine, especially their olives (hands down the best I’ve ever had) and the endless varieties of ham.
Lastly, the cheek kiss, a friendly greeting, was another cultural difference I had to adjust to, but it quickly became second nature.
What kind of support systems did you have as a study abroad student?
There were many international students from different parts of Europe, Latin America, and beyond. UC3M had an active Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which organized events, trips, and cultural activities to help exchange students feel at home. I also found support from the university’s international office and my classmates, who were always open to helping me navigate academic and social life in Madrid.
Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time abroad?
One of the most memorable aspects of my time in Spain was the opportunity to travel to new countries every weekend. It was incredible to see different parts of Europe and experience new cultures. I visited places like Italy, France, and Portugal—each offering unique sights, sounds, and experiences. It felt like I was living a dream, constantly discovering new places and making memories. But beyond the travel, I also loved the relaxed and vibrant social atmosphere in Madrid, the rich cultural traditions, and of course, the food!
Would you recommend studying abroad to other MBS students?
Absolutely! The friendships you form, the lessons you learn, and the memories you create will stay with you for a lifetime. It’s a journey of personal growth and exploration that shapes you in ways you can’t anticipate. I would encourage every student to consider studying abroad—whether for a semester or a year. It will transform you.
Story by Hannah Birkett and Sara Tran