Girlfriend's Guide to a College Semester Abroad
by Emma Fini
One of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received is the opportunity to study abroad as an undergraduate student—an experience made possible by the support of my parents. For five months, I’m calling Madrid home. But here’s what no one tells you: studying abroad isn’t a never-ending vacation. It’s real life, just in a different place.
Before my grandmother passed away, she told me that one of her biggest regrets was never traveling to Alaska, a place she had always dreamed of visiting. That moment stuck with me. I promised myself that I would see as much of the world as I could and that I wouldn’t let opportunities slip away. That promise eventually led me here—to Madrid, to Europe, to an adventure I have been looking forward to for a long time.
Everyone talks about how transformative studying abroad is, but what they don’t always mention is how difficult it can be. It’s not five months of sightseeing and spontaneous trips. It’s about navigating a new country, a new culture, and a new way of life. No one warns you about the guilt of staying in all day when you live in a place as exciting as Madrid. You feel like you should always be out exploring, but the reality is you still have responsibilities.
Living abroad means budgeting carefully, learning to cook in a tiny apartment shared with six other girls, keeping up with schoolwork, getting used to a completely different education system, figuring out public transportation, and somehow maintaining a healthy lifestyle in the midst of it all. You can’t eat out every night. You can’t afford to stay in luxury hotels every weekend. You can’t squeeze in a tourist attraction between every class.
Studying abroad isn’t a vacation—it’s a way of life. So, instead of giving you a tourist itinerary for Madrid (you can find those anywhere), I’m going to share a lifestyle guide. Whether you’re planning to study abroad or live in Madrid—or any European city—for an extended period, here’s what you need to know about making it work.
Choosing a Study Abroad Program
Before anything else, choosing the right program is key. Most universities offer study abroad programs through their own institutions, which has major advantages. The biggest perk? Your credits will transfer seamlessly, and your school handles the logistics for you.
I, however, took a more independent route and enrolled in a program through an external provider. If you’re considering this approach, I highly recommend CEA CAPA, an international study abroad institution. They walk you through every step of the process, offering 24/7 support, which is invaluable when navigating an entirely new system in a foreign country. Click HERE to learn more.
The Infamous Visa Process
If you take away one piece of advice from this section, let it be this: start early and be organized. I did neither and deeply regretted it. If you procrastinate, you may find yourself without a visa appointment—and then you’re really in trouble. Also, double-check every single document required for your application. I had no idea I needed a six-by-six printed headshot, which resulted in a last-minute Walgreens photo booth run (shoutout to my mom for the emergency drive). Learn from my mistakes and read the fine print. Quick tip: If you plan on renting a car abroad—something I highly recommend, especially if you’re visiting small islands with limited transportation options (like Mallorca)—apply for an International Driver’s Permit before leaving your home country.
Where to Live
Your housing situation can make or break your experience. If you want a smooth transition, I recommend opting for program-arranged housing. While you won’t have control over the location, it’s usually cheaper, easier, and one less thing to worry about. If you’re set on independent housing, here are a few Madrid neighborhoods to consider:
Chamberí – Quiet, safe, and residential. Great if you want a local, laid-back experience. This is where I live.
Malasaña – Best for young, artsy, and social people. It’s full of vintage shops, trendy cafes, and a buzzing nightlife. Just keep in mind that Spanish nightlife doesn’t end until 7 AM—so expect some noise.
La Latina – If you want a traditional Madrid experience, this is the place. It’s known for its historic streets, classic tapas bars, and the famous Rastro Market. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, La Latina is also home to the world’s oldest continuous restaurant, Sobrino de Botín which has been serving customers since 1725.
Salamanca – Looking to live lavishly? If budget isn’t a concern and you’re looking for an upscale experience, this is Madrid’s most luxurious neighborhood, home to designer shops and high-end dining.
Overall, Madrid is a very safe and clean city. But no matter where you choose to live, keep in mind that Madrid (and most European cities) operate differently from what you may be used to. The apartments are smaller, the laundry process takes forever, dishwashers are a rarity, and the culture shock is real—but that’s all part of the adventure.
Packing Smart
I won’t overcomplicate this: pack light. Shopping in Spain, especially Madrid, is far cheaper than in the U.S.—and often better quality. You’ll find yourself buying clothes while you’re here, so don’t overstuff your suitcase before you even arrive. One thing to keep in mind: Spaniards dress differently than Americans. In Madrid, people put effort into their outfits. That doesn’t mean luxury brands or formal wear, but it does mean no sweatpants, no baggy athleisure, and no oversized hoodies—at least, not if you want to blend in.
Jeans and a nice sweater? Perfect for class.
A trench coat over a fleece jacket? Much more Madrid.
Loafers or ballet flats instead of chunky sneakers? That’s the norm.
In Michigan, rolling out of bed and going to class in pajamas was standard for me. In Madrid, even a quick grocery run calls for a put-together look. When in doubt, opt for classic, well-fitted, and neutral-colored outfits—you’ll fit right in.
Nightlife
I’m not a big clubber, so I don’t have firsthand experience with Madrid’s nightlife. But based on what my friends tell me, going out is a huge part of the culture here. There’s a club for every night of the week, and people stay out until sunrise. Some of the most popular spots include:
Fucking Monday (yes, that’s the real name) – A popular club for students and tourists.
Teatro Kapital – A massive seven-story club that’s famous but also known as a tourist trap. Hold onto your phone—pickpocketing is common.
Isatar – Another hotspot for a younger crowd. A little more exclusive. I would recommend bringing together a group of friends and purchasing a table for guaranteed entrance.
Bad Company 1920- it was one of my favorite “hidden” cocktail bars.
If clubbing is your thing, you’ll have no shortage of options. But if you’re like me and prefer a more relaxed night out, Madrid also has incredible cocktail bars, rooftop terraces, and speakeasies where you can experience the city’s social scene without stepping onto a dance floor.
Living on a Budget: What to Splurge On, What to Save On
Madrid is a fantastic city for students because it’s relatively affordable compared to other European capitals. But budgeting is still important if you want to make the most of your experience without feeling like you’re constantly strapped for cash. I break down typical prices in Madrid, where to splurge, and where to save so you can build a lifestyle that works for you. The key is knowing when to treat yourself and when to be mindful. Want to know what’s absolutely worth the money and what’s an unnecessary expense? Keep reading.
My #1 Piece of Advice: Do Random Housing. I cannot stress this enough—don’t just live with the same people you go to school with back home. If you do, you’re essentially replicating your college experience in a new country, and that completely defeats the purpose of studying abroad. I see it all the time—friend groups from the same school sticking together like glue and never branching out. And while there’s comfort in familiarity, you are here to experience something new. That includes meeting people from different universities and, most importantly, connecting with locals.
I chose to live with random roommates, and it was hands down one of the best decisions I made. My five new roommates, who I didn’t know before moving here, have quickly become some of my closest friends. Or, if you’re really up for an adventure, go to a program where you don’t know anyone. Yes, it’s scary at first. But it might also be the one time in your life you get to be completely independent in a foreign country. The lessons you’ll learn—about yourself, about navigating the world solo—are absolutely invaluable. If you’re on the fence about going alone, here’s my advice: Take the chance. You won’t regret it
Day to Day Life
I found out quickly, studying abroad is not a vacation, and honestly, it shouldn’t be treated like one either. You are literally living in a new place for five months. When you’re on vacation, it’s all about cramming in as much as possible—fancy dinners, sightseeing, shopping sprees, and checking off every "must-see" attraction. But studying abroad? It’s a marathon, not a sprint. You have the time to see all the touristy stuff, so there’s no reason to force yourself into an overbooked itinerary every day. If you try, you’ll burn out fast. Trust me. The real beauty of studying abroad is immersing yourself in daily life, not just the curated experience of a tourist.
You’re a student first, not a tourist. That means classes, homework, and responsibilities—yeah, those still exist. Depending on your university and program, your workload might be super chill or surprisingly rigorous. My personal program? Easy. But that doesn’t mean I get to slack off. I still have to show up, be present, and engage. Spaniards take their education seriously, and their classroom etiquette reflects that. For example, yawning or stretching in class? Not allowed. If you’re sleep-deprived, grab an espresso before your first lecture. (Pro tip: Spanish coffee is strong, so one shot of espresso might be all you need.) Since my classes are on the lighter side, school has become a breath of fresh air. I get to do fun things like making fashion mood boards and attending wine and olive oil tastings for my Food and Culture class. It’s a completely different academic experience, and honestly, I love it.
Mornings: Routine is Everything. I try to wake up the same time every day—usually around 8:30 AM. When you’re constantly bouncing between new experiences, having a daily rhythm helps ground you. So, find a routine that works for you. Next, get some exercise! Yes, you walk a lot in Europe, and yes, the food is generally better for you. But going five months without intentional movement? That’ll catch up with you. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy—go for a run, do a quick at-home workout, or (if you want to splurge) invite a new friend to a workout class. Nothing humbles you quite like being yelled at in Spanish to hold a plank. Personally, I invested in a gym membership. It’s a five-minute walk from my apartment, and honestly, just knowing I’m paying for it forces me to go. Having a set place to move my body has been a game changer for my mental and physical health while living here.
Food: Grocery Shopping Over Trendy Brunch. If you’re on social media, you’ve probably seen all the aesthetic brunch spots and cute cafés in Madrid. And sure, treat yourself occasionally, but eating out constantly is neither sustainable nor good for you. Spain might be cheaper than the U.S., but those daily €3 coffees and €10 lunches add up fast. Instead, grocery shopping is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Spanish grocery stores are wildly different from what you’re used to. You won’t find eggs or milk in the refrigerated section. Processed snacks? Not as common. If you need a supermarket guide:
Mercadona = Spanish version of Walmart
Supermercado de El Corte Inglés = Spain’s Whole Foods equivalent
Superormal = Think Erewhon, but in Madrid
But if you really want to live like a Madrileño, don’t buy your produce at the grocery store—go to the local frutería. Same for meat—head to the carnicería. I’ve made friends with the owner of my neighborhood frutería, and every week, he gives me a free barra de pan (aka a baguette). Little interactions like that make Madrid feel more like home. Even if you’re not big on cooking, having a kitchen is an opportunity to try new recipes you can bring back to the States. And let’s be honest—after a few weeks of heavy tapas, you’re going to crave a home-cooked meal. An easy recipe to try? Grab a couple eggs and some onion and make a simple, yet delicious Spanish tortilla.
Social Life: Beyond Just Dinner, Drinks, and Clubs
If there’s one thing I’ve noticed, it’s that when my friends and I want to hang out, it’s almost always centered around going out to eat, getting drinks, or clubbing. And while all of that is fun, it gets expensive fast. Drinking culture is huge in Europe. People casually sip wine or beer at 11 AM on a Tuesday. Smoking? Also, a big part of social life. But if that’s not your thing (or if you just want to switch it up), there are tons of other ways to hang out:
· Exploring new neighborhoods
Window shopping in boutique stores
Checking out parks and museums
Taking a cooking or pottery class. Check out Marta Cerámica.
Doing a coffee shop crawl
There are also a lot of volunteer opportunities. My program offers a chance to work with Spanish kids in theatre who need help with their English-speaking roles. I get to practice my Spanish while doing something I love (yes, I am a theatre nerd). Another budget-friendly hack: Download Karma, an app that lets you buy discounted food from restaurants. I once got a whole bag of baked goods for just €3.
Travel: Planning Without Overcommitting
Of course, one of the biggest perks of studying abroad is traveling. But before you go crazy booking flights for every weekend, slow down. There’s so much to explore right in your home city and spending every weekend away will burn you out and drain your bank account. Instead of panic-booking everything before you arrive, make a list of the places you really want to visit. Be realistic—there’s no way you can hit every European city in five months without running yourself ragged.
What worked for me? I made a list of 10 places I had to visit and mapped out the best seasons to go. My friend Izzy, a computer science major and all-around spreadsheet queen, made me a Google Sheet to track my travel plans—everything from flights to accommodations and budget. It’s been so helpful in keeping everything organized.
If you need itinerary inspiration, past study abroad students have made websites with pre-planned travel guides. One of the best is GTGAbroad, which has recommendations for hotels, restaurants, bars, and even tourist traps to avoid. Definitely worth checking out when you’re planning trips. Here’s a few budget travel tips.
Don’t be afraid of hostels. I know, I know—hostels have a reputation. But almost every place I’ve stayed in has been amazing. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and save money. Plus, let’s be real—you’re only there to sleep and shower. Speaking of which, bring flip-flops. No hostel foot fungus for me, thanks.
Use MyHostelWorld. This app is a lifesaver. It has top-rated hostels with detailed reviews, so you can find the best option for your budget. Just double-check that they’re actually open—I learned that the hard way when I booked a hostel in Mallorca only to show up and find out they were closed until June.
Take public transportation. Europe’s public transit is incredible. Metro, trams, buses—you name it, it’s cheap and efficient. Don’t rely on Ubers when you don’t need to. And when in doubt, walk. Some of my favorite discoveries have happened just by wandering around a new city.
So far, my absolute favorite trip has been Porto, Portugal. I flew out on a Thursday and came back Sunday, with flights on Ryanair costing just €62 round trip. My friends and I stayed at CityHub Hostel, which was fantastic—clean, private pods, and a 24/7 concierge. To save money, I kept breakfast simple—just a banana or yogurt from a grocery store. And for sightseeing, I looked for free activities. For example, my roommates and I took a three-hour walking tour that gave us an incredible history lesson and helped us find all the best spots.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad is what you make of it. You don’t have to drain your savings to have an amazing experience. Be intentional about how you spend your time and money, don’t be afraid to do things alone, and immerse yourself in the culture beyond the tourist traps. And if you take nothing else from this—get the gym membership, befriend your local frutería owner, and always pack flip-flops for hostel showers.