As I sit here writing this, it’s difficult to comprehend that I’ll be flying to Madrid in just a few days. After completing my sophomore year at the University of Pittsburgh, I am at a unique transitional phase where I am entering a new chapter in my career overseas while simultaneously remaining rooted in the world of group projects and college finals. I’ll be interning in Madrid this summer, and I’m quite eager for the experience.

I’m currently double majoring in Global Management and Supply Chain Management. I knew going into college that I wanted to continue my education outside of the classroom. I found global management particularly appealing due to its emphasis on cross-cultural interactions. I’ve always been fascinated by how businesses operate across borders, how teams collaborate across time zones, and how supply chains connect people and products on a global scale. This internship feels like the perfect opportunity to experience those dynamics firsthand.

I’ve been fortunate enough to visit Spain on previous occasions, but I’ve never had the opportunity to go to Madrid. Because my mother is from Barcelona, I was raised surrounded by Catalan customs, language, and culture. Although I’ve always considered Spain to be a second home in spirit, I’ll be visiting its capital for the first time and on my own terms. The experience of exploring a new place in a nation that already feels so familiar is very exciting for me.

Im particularly thrilled about the opportunity to work in a Spanish-only professional setting. Although I’ve used the language with my family, I’ve never had the chance to use it in a professional situation. I am aware that this will force me to step outside of my comfort zone, which I think will be great for my development. Speaking spanish informally at home is one thing, but working with colleagues in Spanish is an opportunity that really excites me. I will develop as a communicator in addition to being a student and potential business professional as a result of being immersed in this environment. I’m thankful to have this unique opportunity.

Personally, I hope this summer helps me become more confident, adaptable, and globally minded. I want to return to Pitt not only with new skills and experiences for my resume, but also with a deeper understanding of who I am in unfamiliar environments. In a world where global connectivity is more important than ever, having firsthand experience living and working abroad feels like a gift—and a responsibility. I want to approach this internship with open eyes, open ears, and an open mind.

I am aware that there will be certain adaptations involved in this process. It will take some time to get used to navigating a new city, adjusting to a different work culture, and speaking Spanish in a professional setting, but I’m up for the task. Comfort zones are rarely where growth occurs, therefore this internship is my opportunity to push myself, make mistakes, grow, and adapt. Additionally, I can’t wait to get to know my coworkers, fellow interns and my host-family. Whether they are fellow international students or lifelong Madrileños, the people I encounter will surely influence this experience in ways I cannot yet foresee.

I look forward to continuing to keep posting these blogs during my time in Madrid, and getting the opportunity to talk about everything I am doing for 8 weeks in Spain. Thank you to all of the people who have helped me get here, including my family, instructors, advisors, and most importantly, my mother, whose Spanish heritage sparked my initial curiosity. Your encouragement will be with me at every turn.