This month, I had the privilege of representing the University of Oregon as a GEO Ambassador, visiting three spectacular Spanish cities where Ducks are diving deep into global learning.
Oviedo was my first stop—a city that feels like a second home for Oregonians with its lush mountains and PNW-like climate. This city has a rich ancient history which makes it the perfect launchpad for immersive, global learning. The city, first established in the 8th century between green rolling mountains, blends walkability with centuries-old culture. I was able to hike from the city center straight into the mountains to explore two rare buildings dating back to 8th-century pre-Romanesque architecture. During my visit, GEO Site Director Silvia Pérez led a fantastic student excursion to two mountain villages and the coastal town of Llanes—equal parts stunning and educational.
Second stop was Madrid, a global city of 8 million+ people with incredible mass transit that helps GlobalWorks interns commute to and from their employers, and also lets them easily access the Prado museum, the royal palace, extensive green spaces and gardens, not to mention the vast landscape of food options. May I recommend Empanadish? I got to meet with students interning at two Madrid companies, as well as tour the apartment where 27 GlobalWorks students are living. They are gaining excellent professional experiences at their internships while also building a sense of community and camaraderie in their shared living spaces.
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The final stop was Segovia, the center of the Castile y León region, famous for the 16th century monarchs that funded the Columbian exchange. Old town Segovia has narrow cobblestone streets, a huge Roman aqueduct, a jaw-dropping gothic cathedral, and the Alcázar, the 12th century medieval castle that inspired Disney’s castle profile in Sleeping Beauty. GEO staff Marian Rubio and Laura Arranz arranged visits with student host families and guided tours through Segovia’s historic landmarks. It was fun to see how the UO students placed here have formed friendships and honed their Spanish. As I was leaving Segovia that Friday afternoon to return home, I met multiple students heading off for the weekend to explore other parts of Spain, a testament to their new-found confidence in global travel!
Each of these locations—Oviedo, Madrid, and Segovia—offers Ducks the chance to strengthen their Spanish, grow as global citizens, and explore the world with curiosity and humility.
- Amy Sibul, GEO Staff Grant