Off to Spain! Erin Salm’s Study Abroad Adventure!

Erin Salm, a third-year English education and Spanish education major, studied abroad in Valladolid, Spain, at the University of Valladolid in the fall semester of 2024. The university is in the capital of the region Castilla y León. 

Salm was drawn to the program because of her love of language and different cultures. She was encouraged by her high school Spanish teacher and college professor to explore the program.  

Living with a host family in Spain added another layer to Salm’s experience. Her host parents, Susan and Luis, along with their four-year-old daughter, María, created a sibling-like bond with Erin. 

“They were some of the most educated, chill, loving, hospitable people I’ve ever met,” Salm said. She recalls sitting down each night with her host family to eat dinner and sharing lunches with her host dad.  

Salm was not alone during her adventures. She shared this journey with sophomore Spanish major Kennedy Jackels, the only other student from UWSP who was in the Valladolid program at the same time as her. Salm and Jackels both stayed with the same host family. 

At the university, Salm was in class from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, fully engaged in the Spanish Education program. In her free time, she explored the city, shopped and studied. 

“I think in my free time is where I had to push myself to be like who I am and not lose my mind because it’s easy when you’re in a new country and are surrounded by a new language, without any of your support system and feel alone,” Salm said. 

Salm recalls the college experience being similar to UWSP in some ways and very different in others. To Erin the lifestyle is more laid back in Spain; students are often late to class, and professors are more personable, working to live, not living to work. 

The immersive experience of learning and living in Spain changed Erin’s attitude and perspective on the world.  

“My perspective on life changed. I can understand a different language that links me to a whole different world of people, and it enhanced my passion for learning,” Salm said.  

Salm also had the opportunity to travel, with trips to Madrid, Portugal, and at the end of the semester, she and Kennedy traveled to Zurich, Switzerland, together.  

Salm encourages all who want to study abroad to explore the programs.  

“If you feel even a pinch to do it, do it. Try your hardest to go. I don’t regret spending a dime,” Salm said. “Find any way to go because it will make your life better.” 

Gwen Pabich

News Reporter

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