Hi everyone! My name is Anjali, and I am thrilled to share that I will be studying in Spain in less than a week through the Pitt in Spain program! As an incoming senior at the University of Pittsburgh, I’m majoring in Molecular Biology with minors in Spanish and Chemistry, and a certificate in the Conceptual Foundations of Medicine on the pre-dental track. I am super excited for this journey ahead!
Why I Chose the Pitt in Spain Program
I selected this program because I want to improve my Spanish language and cultural skills. I am passionate about making healthcare more accessible to marginalized communities and breaking the Spanish language barrier for patients. The coursework in the Pitt in Spain program is designed to integrate with my pre-dental studies; one of the courses I will be taking is Spanish for Healthcare Professionals, which directly enhances my academic and professional capabilities. This experience will not only improve my language skills, but also provide a global perspective on healthcare that will be invaluable in my future career. I cannot wait to learn more about the culture and rich history of the area, being a history buff myself. The school I will be studying at is the University of Alcalá, founded in 1499 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The university boasts stunning architecture and beautiful courtyards.
Adventures Await: Hiking and Culinary Exploration
As an avid hiker, I am excited to explore the beautiful hiking trails near Madrid. A hiking destination I am looking forward to is Sierra de Guadarrama National Park!
Additionally, being a huge foodie, I am eager to dive into Spain’s rich culinary scene. Madrid, for instance, is famous for its tapas culture. I plan to join tapas tours to sample a variety of small dishes at different restaurants. Despite being a pre-dental student, I have a big sweet tooth! I can’t wait to try Chocolatería San Ginés, the oldest churro place in Madrid, founded in 1894. Indulging in churros dipped in thick hot chocolate seems like a must-do for any visit to Madrid.
Ready for an Unforgettable Experience
The notes app on my phone is filled with ideas of things I’d like to see and explore. Throughout the past few months, I’ve saved so many videos to my TikTok and Instagram collections with recommendations and hidden gems. I am super grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program and look forward to sharing all the amazing experiences and learning opportunities that lie ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on my journey!
Hasta luego!