XIMENA GONZALEZ FROM SYSTEMIC PSYCHOLOGY TELLS US HOW SHE EXPERIENCED THE SEMESTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF OVIEDO, ASTURIAS. SPAIN.
When you entered Uni, did you know there were international programs?
YES.
At what point and why did you start thinking about applying for a scholarship and studying in another country?
Since I was in high school, I started preparing to study abroad and when I started college I participated with UNI in their international online programs.
Why did you decide to study in that country?
I wanted to have knowledge of psychology from a different point of view from my country.
How was the scholarship application process?
The application process is very simple, but the paperwork can become cumbersome and in a moment you are busy; but it is totally worth it.
How did you prepare for this new experience?
A summer before I was selected as a Counsuler, I worked in the United States in a camp as a teacher and tutor of a group of girls and with the money I received I decided to save it for my studies in Spain.
How did you feel when you arrived in the new country?
I was a little nervous but also excited about this new experience of what the city would be like and the people I would meet.
How have you been received at the university where you arrived?
At the beginning it is a bit confusing, when you arrive and don't know the facilities it is easy to get lost and the way you have to organize your schedule is also a bit confusing but within 1 or 2 months I was able to adapt to their system.
What do you miss the most about Mexico and UNI?
Most of all the food, my friends, my teachers who will always be there for everyone and if you need support they will always be there for you.
What is the most exciting thing you have experienced so far in this experience? And the most difficult?
The most exciting thing has been the unique connections, people that you know that they and only they can understand what you are living now, they become your little family and support network in your new, albeit momentary, lifestyle. I consider that the most difficult part of this experience for me has been adapting to the Spanish educational system, from the way classes are taught, to the way groups are organized, to the way evaluation is done.
How do you think this experience will influence you as a person and professionally?
I think this experience has influenced me in a way that I have become a much more patient person, open to listen to perspectives that may even be totally different mentalities from mine and that many times can make you question certain things that you took for granted without reflecting on them. And above all to learn to make mistakes, to have a better attitude in the face of adversity.
What advice would you give to those who are about to go on exchange to another country?
The advice I would give them would be to take into account that the first few months will be difficult, they will feel that they do not fit in and they will feel incapable of being so long in a country different from their own. But as time goes by and they get to know each other, they will make friends and it will be much more painful for them to return to Mexico; they will fall in love with the life they have created. Also, don't be afraid to make mistakes and enjoy every opportunity and every second of your exchange.
Would you recommend these opportunities offered by UNI to your colleagues?
Yes, these are opportunities where you can develop very important skills that will serve you in your daily life. Mainly skills such as adaptation, organization, determination, courage, social skills such as communication, openness to other ideas and lifestyles, skills that will allow you to know beyond your comfort zone. Thanks UNI for this great life experience!