Albany is closer to Cape Cod than Madrid is to the Mediterranean Sea. In other words, you don't travel to landlocked Madrid for its non-existent beaches. But then again, that's the beauty of a semester overseas, it can be anything you want it to be.
Joseph Cavero '23 is studying at Nebrija University this spring in the Spanish capital. And while he enjoys Madrid, his favorite experience so far was an excursion to the coast. Joseph and some American friends decided they wanted a beach day, so they traveled 200 miles with their study abroad program to Valencia, a port city on the southeastern coast. It wasn't beach weather, but they stuck their toes in the sands and took in a view of the Mediterranean. He didn't have to cross an ocean for a beach day with Americans, but it wasn't about the beach. It was the adventure.
"Put your phone down and live in the moment, because you can never experience the same memory twice."
Joseph Cavero '23
Joseph was nervous before taking the leap and traveling to Spain for the semester. Nerves are normal, but Joseph nearly let the anxiety rob him of his international experience. It took a friend from Siena to push Joseph out the door. A few months ago, Joseph's best advice would have been different. But now he's eager to share this:
"Do the things that scare you because it might just be the best decision you've ever made."
