Sea, Studies, and Student Life in Valencia

Name: Emily Gosden

Your academic school: Modern Languages

Where did you go? Spain/ Valencia/ Universitat de Valencia

What type of placement did you complete? Study

What motivated you to take up a Global Opportunity?
I wanted to challenge myself by living and studying in a completely different environment, while improving my Spanish through full immersion. I was also excited by the opportunity to meet new people, experience Spanish culture first-hand and become more independent.

What were your top 3 highlights from your time abroad?
Joining the University of Valencia choir – it was a great way to meet local people, immerse myself in the culture and continue doing something I love.

The friendships I made – meeting people from all over the world and experiencing Valencia together was one of the best parts of the year.

Travelling and exploring Spain – being based in Valencia gave me the opportunity to visit new places, experience different parts of Spanish culture and make the most of living abroad.

What was your biggest challenge? How did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge was adjusting to a completely different university system and studying in another language. At first it was quite daunting, but I overcame it by putting myself out there, asking for help when I needed it and fully immersing myself in Spanish both inside and outside the classroom.

How has your placement been beneficial to your studies at Cardiff University or your future career?
It has strengthened my Spanish and given me a much better understanding of different cultures and international environments. As I hope to pursue a career with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the experience has also developed my independence, adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills, which will be valuable when working internationally.

What is the one thing you wish you’d known before you left?
I wish I’d known just how quickly the year would go! I would have worried less about the small things at the beginning and focused on saying yes to as many opportunities as possible from day one.

What would you say to a student that was unsure about spending a period abroad?
I’d say go for it, even if it feels daunting at first. Stepping outside your comfort zone is a huge part of the experience, and you gain so much confidence and independence from it. A year abroad goes incredibly quickly, so take the opportunity while you have it.

What are 3 things to do in your host destination? 

1. Watch the sunset at Albufera – take a boat trip and stay for the sunset; it’s one of the best spots just outside Valencia.
2. Spend a day at Malvarrosa Beach – grab some friends, head to the beach and stay for food or drinks afterwards.
3. Explore the Old Town – wander around El Carmen, visit the Central Market and finish with tapas or an Agua de Valencia.

Share your top tips for thriving in your programme destination 

My top tips would be to get involved from the beginning – join societies, sports or groups, as they’re some of the easiest ways to meet people. For accommodation, research different areas before you go and try to find somewhere with good transport links to both the university and city centre. For food, explore beyond the tourist areas for cheaper, more authentic tapas and local restaurants.

Valencia is really easy and affordable to get around, so make the most of public transport and Valenbisi bikes, and look into student travel discounts. Before arriving, research your university timetable, enrolment/admin requirements, accommodation and transport so you know what to expect.

For packing, don’t just pack for the sunshine! Valencia gets colder in winter than you might think, so bring layers and a proper jacket as well as summer clothes. Comfortable shoes are essential, and definitely leave some space in your suitcase for everything you’ll accumulate throughout the year!

Please sum up your experience abroad in one sentence 

My year abroad in Valencia strengthened my Spanish, developed my independence and adaptability, and gave me valuable experience of studying and living in an international environment.