A month in Almería…according to Queen Mary University of London Politics and International Relations student, Diana, and Business and Management student Stephanie.

According to Diana:

As a 20-year-old international relations student, embarking on a journey to Almería for a summer school at the University of Almería was an adventure that promised not only academic enrichment but also an immersion into the rich culture and history of Andalusia. Little did I know that this experience would leave an indelible mark on my heart, filled with cherished memories of exploration, camaraderie, and cultural enlightenment.

Embracing History and Heritage
My first days in Almería were a whirlwind of excitement. The imposing Alcazaba, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill, captured everyone’s gaze. The views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from this vantage point were nothing short of breathtaking, reminding me of the stories that these walls had witnessed over centuries. Exploring further, I visited Almería’s Cathedral, a magnificent blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Its intricate designs and serene atmosphere allowed me to reflect on the passage of time and the intersection of various cultural influences that have shaped the region.

A Night of Passion: Flamenco and Friendship
One evening, I had the privilege of attending a mesmerising flamenco show. The rhythmic claps, soulful guitar melodies, and passionate dance moves created an electric atmosphere that resonated with the intensity of Andalusian culture. The artists’ expressions conveyed emotions that transcended language barriers, and I found myself swept away in the raw beauty of this traditional art form. But the night wasn’t just about the performance. It was an opportunity to bond with a fellow summer school participant who was my roommate, forging connections that would last beyond our time in Almería. Sharing our thoughts on the show over tapas and laughter, we realised how this shared experience had brought us closer together, transcending our diverse backgrounds.

Diving into Nature’s Playground
Almería’s natural wonders were equally captivating. A day of kayaking along the coastline unveiled hidden coves and secluded beaches, each more picturesque than the last. Snorkelling, too, was a revelation. Beneath the waves, an underwater paradise unfolded, with plenty jellyfish darting amidst coral reefs. It was as though I had stepped into a different world, a world where the worries of academia melted away, replaced by wonder and awe for the beauty that nature had to offer.

Savouring Andalusian Delights: Tapas and Togetherness
An essential aspect of Spanish culture is the tradition of tapas. The city’s streets were lined with inviting tapas bars, each offering a unique culinary journey. From savoury paella to delectable churros, I savoured every bite, relishing not just the flavours but also the convivial atmosphere that surrounded these communal dining experiences. Sharing stories, trying new dishes, and clinking glasses with newfound friends made each meal a delightful adventure.

A Global Community of Learners
One of the most profound aspects of my summer school experience was the opportunity to connect with students from around the world. This was thanks to the funding from the GO Summer! Bursary that was able to provide me with such an amazing global experience. As we navigated the challenges of coursework, explored the city, and engaged in cultural activities, our shared experiences fostered deep friendships that transcended borders. Our conversations were a tapestry of diverse perspectives, enriching my understanding of different cultures and viewpoints.

According to Stephanie:

Firstly, I want to start this blog post by thanking Go Summer! Funding and the Turing Scheme bursary for supporting me in this unique opportunity abroad. I enrolled on a programme called International Business: Managerial, Entrepreneurial, and Marketing Skills Development.

The schedule for the duration of the programme was three classes per week from 9am to 2pm on campus; from the residence a 20 minute-long bus journey, and one visit to a local company per week. Evenings and weekends were free to explore the city and surroundings.

The University of Almería includes in the price of the tuition fees; travel and health insurance, accommodation in a single room or a double shared room (in my case I chose a single room), public transport, meals (full board Monday to Friday at the residence) and cultural visits.

During my first week in Spain, we had an introduction to the summer programme at the University of Almería, alongside a tour of the campus. All the information needed about the city, course and, in case of emergency, contact numbers was explained to us. Another fact to bear in mind is the easy route from Almería airport to the residence.

A usual day consisted of going to class, participating in group projects and developing speeches about different topics related to my undergraduate degree, adding a plus to this whole experience. After class, Almería offered different activities, such as discovering new beaches to spend the rest of the day, walking around the ancient town and learning more about its history while enjoying the weather with people from all over the world, and expanding my networking.

Cultural visits included a gastronomic tour on which we tried a cold version of an ‘americano’, which is a typical drink well-known in Almería. We also enjoyed a guided visit of Alcazaba and learned about its Arabic origins, and kayaked along the coast of Cabo de Gata, a natural park. Lastly, we went on a guided tour to Alhambra in Granada, which took three hours by bus.

I would recommend this experience to anyone that wants to complement their studies and boost their CV while meeting new people and exploring a new city.