In 2021, I left the Dominican Republic to begin my journey at Harvard. Since then, being an international student has been central to my experience in the United States.

From finding a welcoming community of foreign peers to sharing multicultural perspectives in classroom discussions, and even organizing trips to my home country with fellow students — Harvard has made it remarkably easy to feel both comfortable and valued. For me, Harvard and the United States have become a second home.

Perhaps because I have always felt so welcomed, I never fully acknowledged that by being at Harvard, I was already studying abroad. This realization hit me when I casually mentioned to friends back home that I would be studying abroad in Madrid for a semester. Their reactions were often marked by surprise, asking, “Aren’t you already studying abroad?”

The numerous times that I was asked that question made me reflect — it may be, perhaps, a bit unusual to study abroad when you are already studying abroad. But I had my reasons, and I would like to share them along with the incredible experiences that came with this decision.

While deciding if I should apply to Harvard, I remember noticing how accessible it was to explore opportunities for studying abroad and traveling to new countries. Shortly after my acceptance, my mentor, a Harvard alumni, shared advice that stuck with me: “This is the perfect time. You’re young, and with Harvard’s support, you can travel almost anywhere.”

He could not have been more right! Harvard offers a vast array of international programs, spanning every continent. Not only does the university facilitate study-abroad experiences worldwide, but it also makes them financially feasible. For students on financial aid, Harvard transfers that aid to cover study abroad costs, often including a stipend for living expenses. This support made my dream possible.

I spent the spring of 2024 studying abroad, but my decision was not just about how accessible Harvard made it—it was also personal. Before Harvard, my travel experiences were limited to a few cities in the Dominican Republic and the U.S. If the world is so big and the opportunity to explore it was within reach, why would I not do it?

Choosing Madrid as my destination felt like the perfect fit. I wanted to experience at least one semester of college-level courses in my native language. This choice turned out to be a gateway to incredible friendships and cultural exchanges. While living in Madrid, I connected with people from across Spain and Europe through the vibrant Erasmus networks. From walks in Retiro Park to late-night adventures in the city, these gatherings fostered lasting connections.

I also forged friendships with American students from other U.S. universities, learning about their college experiences and regional cultures. These interactions added a new layer to my understanding of the United States.

Studying abroad was not just about academics; it was an opportunity to travel meaningfully and immerse myself in new cultures. Everyday activities like cooking my own meals and having free time to explore Madrid taught me independence and cultural adaptability. It expanded my worldview in ways I had not anticipated.

During my time abroad, I visited 11 cities: London, Barcelona, Seville, Granada, Lisbon, Pisa, Ibiza, Naples, Marrakech, Paris, and Istanbul. I am deeply grateful not only for the opportunity to see the world but also for sharing these experiences with some of my best friends at Harvard, who also chose to study abroad at the same time.

Beyond personal growth, studying abroad gave me a renewed appreciation for Harvard. Being away from campus made me realize how exceptional the faculty and student community are. I missed the unique energy and camaraderie that defines Harvard life. At the same time, my experiences abroad taught me lessons I might not have learned otherwise. Immersing myself in history, engaging with a new culture, and traveling extensively enriched my perspective in profound ways.

The most valuable lesson I gained abroad was remembering to pursue excellence while finding joy in life’s simplest moments. Across countries and cultures, our shared humanity shines through. Overall, I am now convinced that the things we have in common are stronger than our differences.