It’s pretty okay being a Norwegian studying in Spain. Sure you will find some cultural differences with Norway but hey, what can be more perfect than studying your degree in a country with such amazing weather, food and culture? Here you have some of the reasons that will make you know that Spain is the place you were always meant for!
Spain, everything under the sun
First of all, the weather is amazing! The region in southern Spain has more than 320 sunny days a year (!!), according to the Lonely planet. Forget about vitamin D deficiency, you´ll get plenty of vitamin D in the sun.
The cost of living is much lower, so it is possible to live perfectly fine without having to work on the side. You can live off of your student loan, which means that you have more time to focus on the studies, and also that you can enjoy life more freely. A night out won’t necessarily empty your wallet, a glass of good Spanish wine is just about 2,5€!
The nursing degree is more hands-on in Spain. The degree is in total four years, so you will get to have more practicals. Already from the first year you will start having practicals at the university. From second year there are practicals in the hospitals, which will allow you get a better understanding and gain more experience from the start. This will give you the opportunity to stand out among others when you apply for a jobs later on.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience for international students
You can learn a new language! When you’re done with your degree you will be fluent in Spanish, which provides the opportunity to work in other Spanish-speaking countries. Remember that more people speak Spanish than English.
The fact that you can study in English the first year makes it possible for non-Spanish speakers to start studying here. During the first year you can attend Spanish classes to prepare yourself for studying the rest of the degree in Spanish. At the same time you can also improve your English – fantastic!
It is also a great opportunity to live abroad, gain new experiences, and challenge yourself. Living in a country with a different culture and traditions will make you get out of your comfort zone, and as they say “the greatest things in life happen outside of our comfort zones.”
The Spanish way of life
Spanish people are super friendly. It is always fun to meet new people and get new friends. In Spain, the locals are more open and it is easy to get in touch with new people.
Talking about food, Spain has distinct regions that all have their own specialties. The tapas vary from region to region. Patatas bravas, gazpacho and paella are all typical Spanish foods, but Spain has a lot more to offer. In the food markets you can find authentic food, all kinds of juices, exotic fruits, vegetables, and baked goods. You can also buy fresh and affordable groceries there.
It’s also very easy to travel around in Spain by bus or train, Spain even has some high-speed trains. There are lots of beautiful beaches and the possibilities to see new and different places are endless. You can do the famous hike “The Camino de Santiago” in the north or go to see flamenco in beautiful Sevilla, in the south.
Spain offers a variety of advantages and adventures, from the food to the weather. As I see it, there are no reasons not to study here!
