Long Term Study Abroad
Dannarys Martinez - NEOMA Business School, Spring 2025
Studying abroad as an undergrad in UTRGV is something I will never regret. I will always be confident in saying that this is what truly shaped me from experience by experience that I have lived during my time abroad. My first study abroad was in Iceland in Summer 2024, and from there I could not stop my curiosity of knowing new countries, so I then applied for study abroad in France for Spring 2025, where I was able to live in France for a whole semester and visit most of the neighbor countries.
Little by little, I became more responsible without even noticing. My time management got better, my academics improved, and I just grew overall in all aspects, but the biggest change in me was more personal than I could imagine. I’ve become more empathetic and have more understanding of others because I’ve connected with people in so many different situations and backgrounds. Being abroad makes you humble, it shows you there’s a whole world out there, so much bigger than the bubble we’re used to. Studying abroad has also helped me professionally, I was even accepted into the Brownsville South Padre International Airport aviation department, coming fresh out of study abroad in France! It made me realize that studying abroad definitely makes you stand out. I truly cannot imagine a world where I never went to study abroad.
Juan José Garza Velasco - Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Fall 2024
Participating in the long-term study abroad program in Barcelona, Spain was an incredible academic and personal journey. Living and studying abroad helped me strengthen my communication skills, adapt to new environments, and appreciate diverse cultures and perspectives. This transformative experience inspired me to continue seeking international opportunities that will enrich my career and broaden my worldview.