Chiara Barausky-da Silva
About My Study Abroad Program
Major/Minor: Major- Global Studies, Minor- Hispanic Studies and Sustainability Studies
Program: UNC in Sevilla
Location: Seville, Spain
Email: chiarada@live.unc.edu
Term: Fall 2019
Why did you choose to study abroad and how did you select your program?
I always knew I wanted to study abroad no matter what university I attended. My family lives all over the world and I consider myself to have the mindset of a global citizen. With the diverse and unique programs UNC offers it was a no brainer that I would be going to some foreign country. I knew I wanted to study in a Spanish-speaking country and after countless hours of comparison between the programs and places, UNC in Sevilla was the perfect match for me. It was an attractive program to me because it was UNC's oldest program (therefore it was well established), there were many examples of courses and credit transfers, I knew many people who had loved the program and it seemed to be the most culturally immersive place to perfect my Spanish.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that I adapt quickly to new environments.
What is one of your favorite memories from your program?
My favorite memories from this program would be when the entire program was together- whether that was in the CINECU office, on class trips or meeting up to explore Sevilla together. Our thanksgiving/ going away dinner stands out in my mind because we all knew each other very well by that point and were so thankful to be with one another, in a city we had learned to call home.
What advice do you have for future study abroad students?
I would advise incoming students to pack lightly and go into the program with an open mind- ready to make priceless memories and lasting friendships.
Would you do it again?
Yes, I wish I was still abroad.
How were your classes abroad different than if you would have taken them at UNC?
My UNC-SAS classes with other UNC students were very similar to my UNC courses. There was less work in comparison, but the classes still need to meet UNC requirements so I found myself busy often. However, all of the classes were P/F which definitely took stress off. One of my classes with only spanish students was very tricky and the course work is not spread out over the semester. On the other hand, the other course had a few main projects but was doable and I really enjoyed the course material.
If you faced any challenges abroad, where could you turn to get the support you needed?
Directors/ teachers at EUSA-CINECU, Host family, roommate, friends and family from home
Memories
