I graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2022 with a joint degree in French and Spanish. During my studies, I had the opportunity to spend a year abroad in Huelva, a vibrant town in the south of Spain. Living with three Spanish students there not only improved my language skills but also immersed me in the rich culture of Andalusia. I worked as a primary school teacher in a small village, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. Unfortunately, my time abroad was cut short due to COVID-19. Despite this, the experience was impactful and deepened my commitment to education and my desire to explore new cultures further. 
After completing my degree, I followed my passion by teaching English in Valence, France. I lived with a French family who played a crucial role in helping me integrate into French culture and navigate local traditions. My time as a primary school teacher was rewarding, though I faced challenges such as adapting to different educational practices and managing diverse classroom dynamics. My degree in languages proved invaluable in overcoming these obstacles, providing a strong foundation in cultural understanding and communication that facilitated a smoother transition. 


Living in both Spain and France was a transformative experience that broadened my perspective and shaped my career path. Although I cherished my time abroad, I felt drawn back to Glasgow to continue working in education, ideally in a role that connected to my degree. This brought me to my current position as an Exchange Coordinator at the University of Glasgow, where I support incoming students preparing for their own year abroad. Having been in their shoes, I understand the challenges and excitement that come with studying in a new country. My language degree and international experiences have been invaluable, allowing me to draw on my own background to effectively guide these students and make their transitions as smooth as possible.

First published: 16 September 2024

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