Semester abroad in Valencia: A memorable time for Maya

Valencia offered Maya more than just studying abroad: vibrant culture, open-minded people, interactive teaching, and unforgettable celebrations. Between the beach, campus, and traveling around Spain, she developed her independence and gained new perspectives on life.

For her semester abroad as part of the Bachelor's program in International Business Management at the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol, Maya chose Valencia – a city that had everything she wanted right from the start: the sea on her doorstep, a wide range of leisure activities in both summer and winter, and an environment that fostered her personal and academic development. From September 2024 to June 2025, she attended the partner university Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir (UCV), located in the heart of the old town.

“The biggest learning experience during my semester abroad was developing my independence,” says Maya. Together with a fellow student from Kufstein, they decided to go to Valencia. Although they were enrolled at different universities, the two young women were able to share their experiences with each other.

The intercultural exchange had a particularly formative influence on Maya: “Not only did I get to know Spanish culture more intensively, I also learned a lot about different ways of life. I realized how differently cultures communicate and set priorities—whether in terms of punctuality, mealtimes, or social interaction.”

STUDIES AND SUPPORT AT UCV

Maya was able to try out various courses during her first few weeks and quickly found the subjects that suited her best. It was easy to adjust her previous learning agreement. Both the University of Valencia and the University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol supported the entire process with clear communication and close supervision. Welcome days, buddy family programs, and orientation days made it easy to get started. The warm atmosphere on site in particular helped her to quickly make new friends.

Her everyday student life in Valencia was also very varied. The day began at 8:00 or 10 :00, usually with interactive lessons full of group work and presentations. The classes lasted around two hours, so afterwards she could enjoy time with her fellow students in the cafeteria or in the nearby park, and in summer often directly on the beach. During exam periods, she often studied in cafés with other students, which was not only effective but also inspiring.

The criteria for performance assessment differed significantly from those in Kufstein: compulsory attendance, continuous participation, and projects counted just as much as final exams. This meant that learning progress was always at the forefront.

LIVING IN VALENCIA

Maya lived in the Cabanyal neighborhood, right on the beach. She shared the apartment she found on the Spotahome platform with her friend from the Kufstein University of Applied Sciences in Tyrol. Even though it was a longer commute to the university, she enjoyed the seaside location and proximity to the lively beach promenade. One highlight was the city's bike rental system: for only 30 EUR per year, Maya was able to quickly get to university and explore the city on two wheels.

The private celebrations in the city's neighborhoods were also unforgettable moments. Normally, access to these events is reserved for members only. Thanks to her buddy, Maya was able to take part in a traditional paella cooking event - eating together, dancing, and experiencing the open-mindedness of the locals. Overall, the celebrations and parades that lit up Valencia almost every week made the year a unique experience.

There was a wide range of Erasmus activities on offer for leisure time, from excursions and sporting events to language cafés. Maya found the Instagram pages happyerasmusvalencia and erasmuslifevalencia helpful, as they offered tips and affordable travel options.

PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION

Maya encourages other students to schedule an appointment early to obtain the discounted public transportation card, as wait times can be long at the beginning of the semester. A small first-aid kit and some cash on hand are also useful.

Her conclusion: Valencia is a lively student city that combines tradition and modernity. “These experiences have strengthened my intercultural communication skills and permanently broadened my view of the world.”

Links:

International Business Management | ft
Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir | Partner University