Without a doubt, this past fall semester has been the best few months of my life. Having decided to spend the first half of my senior year in Spain turned out to be a life changing experience I will cherish forever. Madrid exceeded any expectation that I could have placed on studying abroad, and I am certain it will not be my last time living there.

Studying international business took a whole new form once I was physically living abroad, absorbing the vibrant European culture. Living with an incredible family who took me in as their son only added immensely to my immersion into Spain. Along with my classes in Madrid, I was also fortunate enough to work as an intern for a Spanish investment company called The Venture City. I cannot thank them enough for all they have taught me, both about the work being done by the firm, but also relating to the customs and formalities of European business. Following my rigorous class and work schedule proved to be most rewarding when I could connect with my coworkers and professors in their own language.

As a DACA student, studying abroad is an extremely complex process. There are numerous risks involved when leaving the country with only the safety of a DACA travel document, which can end up being fallible. Assuming this uncertainty, I still considered myself lucky to be fulfilling one of my biggest dreams of going to Europe. Although it was unpredictable at times, I thankfully arrived safe and sound back home. I have nothing but gratitude for the MVYouth community who converted my dream into a reality. With the support of my family and from the MVYouth scholarship, I am now as confident as ever in a seamless transition into my future international business career.