International Business Management student Sol studied at Valencia University in Spain in 2022–23. Here, he shares his experiences and offers some advice for other students who are considering studying abroad.
When I first travelled to Valencia, I only needed a suitcase full of clothes as our accommodation provided all the essentials, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. Of course, I still needed to bring my essential documents, like my health card and insurance, as well as any country specific items, such as adapters. Even so, only having to look after one suitcase meant my journey was stress-free.
Settling in to life in Valencia
Settling in was both exciting and daunting, but I soon found ways to feel at home. I recommend packing a blanket for winter, as I quickly realised how cold it gets in Valencia at night! Packing some home comforts, such as photos, also helps to make the place feel like home.
It was important to go out and explore, and I got to know the local area by going shopping and to cafes. Keeping an open mind and stepping out of your comfort zone is key for making the most of the experience, whether that is by trying new foods, or speaking the language everyday.
Meeting new people and building friendships
Initially, I found the best way to meet people was through university classes. As I studied in both Spanish and English, I was able to interact with a wide range of people from across Europe and around the world, in both languages. The bar across the road from the University offered social events, such as language exchanges and beer pong, so this provided another avenue to make friends.
Erasmus companies also offered opportunities to meet people for exchange students, organising trips and events to bring people together. Not only did this help me meet new people, but it also meant I could try new things and explore different parts of Spain.
Choosing my modules
I chose my semester 1 modules online before going to Valencia. The catalogue of modules is extensive, with a mixture of business and economics modules available in both English and Spanish. I decided to try some economics modules to challenge myself! On arrival, there was the chance to change modules for a specific amount of time.
For semester 2, I selected them in person in the international relations office at the university. The staff were very helpful and provided expert information and guidance into which modules to choose.
How studying in Valencia differed from Newcastle
One of the main differences was how interactive the classes were. Unlike my lecture-focussed experience in the UK, classes in Valencia were built around participation and engagement. They also ultimately contributed to final grades. This definitely helped me to understand the work I was doing a lot more, and encouraged me to consider a diverse range of views.
Assessments were also set out differently, with Valencia placing emphasis on continuous assessment. This was organised through weekly homework tasks, which helped with learning, as well as contributing to my final grade. Presentations were another difference. They carried a large weighting, alongside traditional exam papers.
Sol’s day-to-day experiences in Valencia helped him grow more independent, confident and open to new opportunities. It gave him fresh perspectives on studying, living abroad and planning the next stage of his degree.
Want to study abroad as part of your degree?
Interested in adding an international experience to your degree but unsure where to go? NUBS has several partners around the world, with teaching available in English in all destinations.
Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Business School’s Placements and Study Abroad webpage
- Check out the University’s Global Experience webpage
- Contact the Business School’s Placement and Study Abroad Team at nubs.placementandstudyabroad@ncl.ac.uk