Meet the ambassador – Francesca – MLANG, Spain & Italy

Name: Francesca Deronda

School, Degree Programme: School of Modern Languages, Spanish and Italian Year 4

Host destination: Valencia in Spain and Brescia in Italy

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?
As part as my degree we have to go on a year abroad. I chose to do 2 work placements. In the first semester, I went to Valencia in Spain. I worked in a primary school helping teach English. This experience was really amazing – I loved helping students learn English and feel confident when speaking to natives. Living in Valencia was the highlight of my semester – it is such a beautiful and vibrant city and I met some many international students, some of whom are now my best friends. I loved experiencing the Spanish culture, speaking to natives and how warm the weather was even in winter!

During my second semester I went to a small town outside of Brescia. I lived with 2 host families and worked in a secondary school teaching English. Although it was very different to living in Valencia, my Italian language skills developed so much as I spoke Italian all the time. I was able to travel most of northern Italy which I wouldn’t have been able to do if I didn’t do this experience. I tried so many new foods and met lots of new people.

What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?
How welcoming Spanish and Italians were, especially when speaking to them they really encouraged me to speak with them and develop my language skills.

What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?
I miss living in warmer places, always having something to do or explore and being with all the amazing new friends I met.

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?
Going on holiday – I love being in the sun!

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?
Rhostio

If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
I would live/travel around South America. I would love to travel around and see different South American countries particularly Peru. I want to try all the different foods!

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I’m half Italian

Describe your global experience in three words:
Eye-opening. Inspiring. Motivating

What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?
Be confident. Try and push yourself out of your comfort zone and say yes to new opportunities.