For senior nursing major Maggy McEnaney, stepping outside of her comfort zone meant boarding a plane to Spain — alone — for a three-week immersive study abroad program in Salamanca. The result? A transformational experience that left a lasting mark on her personal, academic, and cultural perspectives.
“I studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain for three weeks this past summer,” Maggy shares. “I took a Spanish language/grammar class as well as a Spanish history class about the history of Spain throughout the 1900s.”
Though the program was short-term, the impact was profound. As a nursing major with minors in Spanish and psychology, Maggy was drawn to a program that could fit into her demanding academic schedule without compromising her studies. “As a nursing major, I was nervous about being abroad for an entire semester,” she explains. “This provided the perfect opportunity for a shorter experience that would allow me to meet some of my academic and personal goals. I was able to complete my minor and learn Spanish, which were important to me when choosing a location.”
Beyond academics, the program — offered through Global Fairfield’s approved partner AIFS (American Institute for Foreign Study) — provided Maggy with a deep and personal understanding of Spanish culture. “My experience truly changed my view of the world,” she says. “I was able to be fully immersed in the culture of Spain for the three weeks I was abroad.”
Living with a host family played a major role in her immersion. “I learned so much about how people live their lives from day to day in Spain,” she says. “Living with a host family allowed me to see what life is like inside a Spanish home. I was able to practice speaking Spanish daily, try authentic Spanish food, and meet so many amazing people.”
Outside the classroom, cultural excursions added new layers to the experience. “The immersive experiences provided by AIFS included a cooking class, Flamenco dance class, tours of various locations around Salamanca, a trip to Porto, Portugal, and so much more,” Maggy recalls. “These experiences gave me the opportunity to explore a whole new culture as well as build meaningful connections.”
For Maggy, the trip didn’t just fulfill the final requirement for her Spanish minor — it reshaped how she sees learning. “Studying abroad influenced my academic goals because, despite the fact that it fulfilled the last course I needed to complete my Spanish minor, I am inspired to continue learning the language and connecting with the culture outside of the classroom,” she says. “I hope to continue improving my language skills, cook meals I tried abroad, and more.”
Looking back, Maggy encourages other students — especially those feeling hesitant — to take the leap. “Just do it!” she says. “I was nervous going into the experience because I was traveling to a new country all by myself. I wasn't very confident in my Spanish skills before going, and I didn't really know anyone on the trip.”
But the risks were well worth it. “It ended up being an unforgettable experience. I made lifelong friends and learned so much. The three weeks flew by. It is so worth the risk!”
Maggy McEnaney’s story is a reminder that even short-term study abroad programs can offer long-lasting academic and personal rewards. Whether it’s perfecting a new language, forming lifelong friendships, or simply discovering how another part of the world lives — for students willing to take the chance, the impact is undeniable.
Global Fairfield offers a wide variety of programs and opportunities with AIFS. If you are interested in exploring our options, visit our website for more information!
