Voices from Abroad

Studying Abroad in Barcelona

by Jeff Coles
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It is nearly impossible to go anywhere without witnessing this city's rich history.
MBA student Jeff Coles blogs about his experience studying abroad in Barcelona.

February 6, 2013

After a short trip through Thailand and celebrating New Year's Eve with a group of Sternies, I finally made it to my humble abode in Barcelona, Spain. It's almost like being back in the Lower East Side, but brighter.

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A short distance from my apartment is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. It is nearly impossible to go anywhere without witnessing this city's rich history.

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After an intense three days of classes at the ESADE MBA program, I needed a break. Jack Tirado (MBA '13) and I braved the cold weather and a three-hour bus ride for a weekend of skiing. I usually ski, but I tried out the snowboard this time.

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To finish out my first month abroad, I took a trip out to Madrid to visit a friend who is currently working at the embassy. We stopped by Chocolateria San Gines for some of the best churros in Spain.

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My girlfriend flew over to view some of the sites in this huge city. This is a picture of us in front of the Alcala Gate in the center of the city.

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My first month abroad in Spain has been full of new experiences. Immersing myself in a society so rich in culture and working through a critical point regarding their role in the European Union is extremely exciting. I can not imagine the new experiences and opportunities that will present themselves in the coming months.