5 Reasons to Make Madrid Part of Your International Studies

By Uloop Guest Writer on July 20, 2018

Whether you’re a sophomore studying biochemistry or a grad student pursuing an MBA, the opportunity to study abroad is one that can enhance your academic experience unlike any other. Living and learning in a culture different from your own not only broadens your perspective on how societies interact in various parts of the world, but also empowers you with cross-cultural problem-solving and communication skills—invaluable assets in today’s globally connected economy.

There are many factors to consider in the decision to study abroad, chief among them being where you will get the most out of your experience—academically, personally, and professionally. When it comes to choosing where you will complete your international studies, there is one location that hits all the marks—the historically rich, yet commercially modern city of Madrid, Spain.

Ranked one of Travel and Leisure’s 2017 top 15 cities in Europe, Madrid is more than a cultural epicenter for world-class art, music, theater, and some of the best tapas you’ll find in Spain (and, thus, the world). It’s also a bustling economic hub boasting a wealth of industrial diversity. Here are just a few ways Madrid can provide the ideal backdrop for your academic studies, and why the capital city should at least be on your short list—if not at the very top.

Via Pexels.com

1.   Old World Charm Meets Modern-Day Bustle

It’s no secret that Spain is a country rooted in old world influence, as evidenced through perhaps its two biggest staples—art and architecture. But past the spectacular cathedrals and revolutionary artwork lies a city steeped in innovation, with significant investments in modern infrastructure and technology.

Madrid is a city unique in its ability to preserve its rich history while embracing a burgeoning economic landscape. It is truly the best of both worlds for students looking to immerse themselves in a culturally significant, yet fast-paced metropolis while preparing for their post-graduation ambitions.

2.   Some of the Best Places in the World to Study (& Play)

Madrid’s historical majesty extends to its world-class parks and gardens, the perfect setting for studying, exercising, or unwinding over a picnic with friends and peers. The 120-hectare Retiro Park—one of Madrid’s most famous attractions—opened to the public in 1868 after being converted from the gardens of the Palace of the Buen Retiro.

Break between classes? Grab your textbooks and get lost in the serenity of the Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid, an eight-hectare botanical garden featuring more than 5,000 species of plants. And if you’re looking to escape the city after a long week of classes, you can be at one of the region’s exquisite freshwater beaches in just an hour or two.

3.   Immerse Yourself in European Art, History, & Culture

Whether you’re looking to broaden your knowledge of a particular industry or find a new adventure, one of the major benefits of studying abroad is the ability to immerse yourself in a culture different from your own. And in Madrid, you can do just that.

Perhaps the greatest contrast of old and new world Europe can be seen in the diversity of Madrid’s architecture—a unique amalgamation of its pre-Bourbon rule and 19th century modernization. A sightseeing stroll down the city’s museum-, café-, and garden-lined streets (see the famous Paseo del Prado), will lead you straight to the very best in Spanish culture.

4.   The Food

As with the city’s infrastructure, the food scene in Madrid represents a diversity of influences from across Spain and Europe. Perhaps most famous for its tapas—appetizers or snack-sized portions of Spanish delicacies best served with a glass of vino tinto—Madrid is widely hailed as a foodie paradise. Pop into almost any of the cafés along the city’s boulevards where you’re pretty much guaranteed a world-class meal, or head straight for the Mercado San Miguel, the cast iron market outside of Plaza Mayor boasting everything your heart could desire in Spanish cuisine.

5.   Universities are Taking Notice

With international experience becoming more of a competitive advantage for graduates entering the workforce than ever before, universities around the world are enhancing their ability to provide this experience by expanding their global footprints. And with everything Madrid has to offer in scenery, culture, food, and fun, it’s no wonder the Villa y Corte is becoming a strategic site for universities emphasizing global, hands-on learning as part of their curricula.

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