A lifetime worth of memories

Liezl Ceniza loved her exchange at the University of Navarra in Spain, from making friends from around the world to challenging herself in so many ways.

Liezl Ceniza

Why I chose my host uni:

I’ve always wanted to visit Europe and doing a semester there sounded like the best opportunity. Spain felt like the best option for me as I had connections there and had heard about the university before. I was excited for the opportunity to immerse myself in Spanish culture and also improve my Spanish skills. Being in Spain also made it easier for me to travel around Europe during my semester, which was a top priority for me.

How I found applying to my host uni:

It was pretty easy to apply to my host uni. I needed to submit documents like my AUT academic transcript, my visa, proof of English proficiency and health insurance (with a Spanish company). The hardest part during the application process was finding courses that I could cross-credit as some courses I needed were only available in Spanish or were only taught in the spring semester, so it took me a while to get this sorted but it all worked out in the end.

I applied for the long-term visa, and the process was easy and straightforward. I sent all required forms and documents to the Spanish Embassy via post, so I didn’t need to travel to Wellington to get my visa. It took me about a month to receive my visa.

How I found learning in a different academic system:

It wasn’t too hard to adapt to a new academic system. Most of my assessments were groupwork so I didn’t struggle much as I was working alongside other people and thankfully never had issues with any of my groups. Some of my classes only had one assignment, which was surprising to me.

It was also great to work alongside not only exchange students but full-time students who knew the academic system well and knew what was expected. Most of my classes were pretty chill and all class materials were available online if I ever needed to look back on lectures. I was also lucky enough to have professors who were very helpful and interactive with students.

What I gained from this experience:

This exchange has taught me so much. I was able to become more independent and really step out of my comfort zone especially as this was my first time living out of home. I was able to challenge myself in so many ways, from trying to speak to locals in Spanish to being the first person to say hi or trying to navigate my way in a different country. I’ve realised how well I can thrive in situations I would have never thought I could. I have gained so many friends from around the world and a lifetime worth of memories.