Ella Ray
Wharton ’26
Marketing and Communications
SA: CIEE: Lisbon: Language and Culture
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Studying abroad in Lisbon, Portugal for a semester was one of the most transformative experiences of my college journey—and I did it completely on my own. I didn’t know anyone going into the program, had never been to Portugal, and was navigating a new culture, language, and academic system for the first time. That unfamiliarity was exactly what made it so rewarding.
I pushed myself out of my comfort zone every day, whether it was learning to take the metro in a foreign language, making friends from all over the world, or simply ordering food at a local pastelaria. I learned how to adapt quickly, find confidence in being independent, and embrace new perspectives.
Other students should ask me what it’s like to go abroad alone—because I truly believe going solo made my experience richer. It forced me to be open, proactive, and present. I also balanced traveling across Europe with a full course load and cultural immersion, all while staying grounded in my goals. I can offer honest insight into what it’s like to juggle academics, social life, and self-growth in a brand-new environment.
My Experience Abroad
Studying abroad in Lisbon was the perfect blend of academic growth and personal exploration. All my courses counted toward my Marketing and Communications major, so I stayed on track while gaining an international perspective. The workload was manageable, and my class schedule gave me the opportunity to travel almost every weekend for 3–4 days.
This balance taught me how to manage my time effectively while still making the most of every experience. My classes focused on global business, media, and cultural communication—topics directly aligned with my academic and career goals.
Traveling often and living in a new country helped me develop adaptability, cross-cultural communication skills, and a better understanding of global consumer behavior—all of which are essential for a future in marketing. Overall, my time abroad contributed to my degree, strengthened my resume, and gave me a broader worldview that I’ll carry with me into both my studies and professional life.
Other Highlights
One of the biggest highlights of my study abroad experience was the ability to travel all over Europe. With a flexible class schedule, I was able to explore new countries almost every weekend—visiting places like Spain, Italy, France, and Morocco. Each destination gave me a new perspective and helped me appreciate the diversity of cultures across Europe.
Another highlight was the friendships I made. I arrived in Lisbon not knowing a single person, but I left with close friends from all over the world. Whether it was exploring the city together, traveling on weekend trips, or sharing meals at home, those relationships made my experience even more meaningful.
Living in Portugal also gave me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in a new culture. I learned how to navigate daily life in a different language, adjusted to new customs, and gained a deeper understanding of global perspectives. Most of all, the experience gave me confidence. Going abroad alone pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible and helped me grow as a person.
