Adam Sargent is an incoming first-year student from Big Rock, Illinois. He recently traveled to Spain with MSU’s First-Year Seminars Abroad program prior to coming to campus for his first semester in East Lansing.
I am so grateful I was able to travel to Spain this summer as part of the First-Year Seminars Abroad program. The experience helped me grow in ways I never expected: academically, socially and personally.
In high school, I often struggled to connect with peers and rarely felt like I truly fit in. But from the first day of this program at Michigan State University, I felt welcomed. I quickly became part of a group where I felt accepted and supported, and my classmates became close friends.
As someone who works with the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities and lives with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, I knew studying abroad would present some challenges. The independent schedule, constant movement and unfamiliar environment pushed me outside my comfort zone. It was tough at times to stay focused, manage my time and keep up with notetaking while always on the go. But it also forced me to adapt. I found new ways to stay organized and engaged, and I became more confident in asking for what I needed to succeed. I left the program with stronger academic habits, better self-awareness and a deeper belief in what I can handle.
One of my favorite memories was a small cooking class where we made traditional Spanish tapas. It was relaxing and fun, and it brought all of us even closer. It was a great social event that allowed us to laugh and learn while connecting with the Spanish culture and cuisine.
Visiting places like La Sagrada Familia, El Museu Marítim, Segovia, Toledo and El Palacio Real turned history into something tangible. Being able to visualize what we had discussed in our lectures and readings truly allowed the material to come to life in a way it never could have from a lecture hall.
I’m especially thankful to Professor Bethany Judge, who created such a welcoming and supportive learning environment.
This experience has given me confidence as I head into my freshman year. As an engineering major, this subject matter and writing-heavy course was a challenge for me, and Spain helped shape how I see myself as a student and a person.
Learn more about MSU’s other summer transition programs.
