Spain Study Abroad Explores the Country's Diverse Regional Heritage
PennWest University’s upcoming Study Abroad program in Spain promises students an immersive experience in Spanish culture, guided by experienced faculty and support staff.
With a departure date set for June 7, 2025, the 11-day program will cover cities from Barcelona to Madrid, with an optional extension in Madrid for those seeking further exploration.
The program, titled “Spain: Land of Many Cultures,” is designed to introduce students to Spain’s diverse regional heritage. Each city on the itinerary—Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Granada, Seville, and Madrid—offers unique insights into Spain’s historical influences and present-day traditions.
Linda Takash, Director of International Education at PennWest, said the university’s study abroad programs aim to foster cultural competency and broaden students’ global perspectives.
Takash emphasized that each program is led by faculty members who bring a depth of knowledge and experience to students’ travel experiences.
“The university does not select faculty to lead a study abroad program,” Takash said. “Faculty members express their own interest in leading a program, and most have been involved in study abroad for several years.”
Faculty leaders are also responsible for developing an affiliated course that aligns with their area of expertise, providing an academic framework to accompany the travel.
The planning process for each program begins with a faculty-led application, Takash said.
This application goes through approvals by several university officials to ensure the proposed program aligns with institutional goals. PennWest’s agreements with third-party providers like EF Educational Tours allow faculty leaders to work with experts who organize and customize the entire itinerary.
“Students will first have the support of their faculty leader and the International Education Office,” Takash said. “And when the faculty leader uses a third party, they are available 24/7 to assist with any unexpected situation.”
In addition to logistical support, the International Education Office coordinates necessary accommodations for travelers, including students with medical needs.
“We make sure each traveler is registered with STEP, a U.S. government program that provides notifications in case of an emergency evacuation,” Takash said.
A survey collects feedback on each student’s experience at the end of the program, which helps improve further study abroad opportunities.
The group leader for this year’s program is Amy Eperthener, an assistant athletic trainer at PennWest who led a previous program to Italy. Eperthener said she was inspired to choose Spain after speaking with a staff member from EF who had lived in Spain and shared her passion for the country.
Eperthener believes the interactive components of the itinerary are key to meaningful learning. “Anytime you can be hands-on, it really sinks in as a learning experience,” she said.
Students will participate in various activities, from paella cooking classes in Valencia to olive oil tasting in Seville, each designed to foster direct engagement with local culture.
“I want students to involve themselves with the Spanish culture while in-country,” Eperthener said. “It’s easy to be a spectator, but it’s harder—and more rewarding—to step out of your comfort zone and try a new language, new food, or dance.”
The program’s itinerary also includes independent exploration time, allowing students the flexibility to pursue their own interests. Eperthener said this time builds confidence and encourages personal curiosity.
“The personal exploration gives travelers the independence to navigate and interact on their own, which can be uncomfortable at first but quickly builds confidence,” she said.
From architectural tours in Barcelona to a visit to Granada’s renowned Alhambra palace, students will have opportunities to explore a range of cultural and historical sites that reveal the country’s multifaceted identity. According to Eperthener, exposure to diverse regions enhances students’ understanding of Spain’s regional distinctions in culture, cuisine, and language.
“It’s great to see different parts of a country because the culture can vary, just as it does in the U.S.,” she said.
Beyond academic and logistical support, the EF travel agency provides 24/7 assistance on the ground, with a tour director accompanying the group throughout their stay.
Eperthener said the presence of a knowledgeable guide is invaluable. “Our tour director knows all the best places to eat and shop and can help with everything from basic phrases in the native language to handling any issues with transportation,” she said.
Takash believes that PennWest’s study abroad programs allow students to gain essential life skills that extend beyond academics. “We promote cultural competency and global awareness by submerging each student in the culture of the destination,” she said.
According to Takash, each program provides students with a deeper understanding of both global perspectives and their own place in the world.
Reflecting on the transformative power of travel, Eperthener said she has seen hesitant students return with newfound confidence and a desire to continue exploring other parts of the world.
“It changes you in the best ways,” Eperthener said. “While there are differences between us, you learn quickly that we have more in common than we might initially think.”
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